Quick-Relief Home Laxatives: Natural, Fast-Acting Solutions

There are several ways to make a fast-acting laxative at home. Laxatives are products that help people empty their bowels, and there are many types, including stool softeners, bulk-forming laxatives, osmotic laxatives, and stimulant laxatives.

One simple way to make a laxative at home is to increase your fibre intake. Eating more fibre-rich foods, such as whole grains, nuts, seeds, fruits, and vegetables, can help to relieve constipation. Another option is to take a fibre supplement, such as psyllium (Metamucil), which can be dissolved into water.

Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, is another important way to promote bowel movements. The US National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine recommend that women aim for at least 11.5 cups of fluids per day, while men should strive for 15.5 cups.

In addition to dietary changes, light exercise can also help stimulate bowel movements by increasing blood flow to the abdomen.

If these home remedies do not provide relief, over-the-counter laxatives are also available, but it is important to follow the instructions carefully to avoid side effects.

Increase fluid intake

Drinking plenty of fluids is an essential part of treating constipation and can be used in conjunction with laxatives or other treatments. Fluids help to prevent and relieve constipation by keeping the colon hydrated, which helps to soften stools and stimulate bowel movements.

The amount of fluid you should drink each day depends on various factors, including whether you are pregnant or nursing. However, as a general rule, it is recommended that adults drink at least 1.8 litres or about seven to eight 8-ounce glasses of clear liquid per day. This is the equivalent of about 64 ounces or 2 litres.

Water is the best choice for staying hydrated, but you can also include other fluids such as teas, soups, and other liquids. It is important to avoid drinks that can contribute to dehydration, such as coffee, and limit your intake of dairy products, as these can make constipation worse.

In addition to increasing your fluid intake, it is also important to eat a diet high in fibre and get regular exercise. These lifestyle changes can help to prevent and relieve constipation and are often more effective than relying on laxatives alone.

If you are experiencing constipation, try increasing your fluid intake and making these other lifestyle changes before resorting to laxatives. However, if your constipation continues or is severe, consult your doctor or pharmacist for advice on the best course of treatment.

Eat more fibre-rich foods

Eating more fibre-rich foods is a great way to promote healthy digestion and relieve constipation. Fibre, a type of carbohydrate found in plants, passes through the body without being broken down, adding bulk to the stool and making it easier to pass.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recommends consuming about 14 grams of fibre for every 1,000 calories consumed daily. For context, the average person should aim to consume at least 22 to 34 grams of fibre per day, with women and men requiring 25 grams and 38 grams, respectively.

• Fruits: apples, bananas, pears, strawberries, avocados, raspberries, blueberries, passion fruit, figs, oranges, pomegranates, peaches, etc.
• Vegetables: broccoli, carrots, leafy greens, artichokes, Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, cabbage, spinach, beetroot, etc.
• Whole grains: whole grain bread, cereal, oatmeal, brown rice, whole wheat pasta, etc.
• Legumes: kidney beans, lentils, chickpeas, peas, soybeans, etc.
• Nuts and seeds: almonds, chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, flax seeds, etc.

When increasing your fibre intake, it is important to do so gradually over a few days and to drink plenty of water to avoid adverse effects such as bloating and gas. Additionally, it is recommended to increase your water intake when consuming more fibre-rich foods, as fibre needs water to move through the digestive tract effectively.

Take a fibre supplement

Taking a fibre supplement is a great way to relieve constipation and promote healthy bowel movements. Fibre supplements are available in many forms, including tablets, capsules, and powders. They can be easily added to your daily routine and are generally safe to take. However, it is always recommended to consult with your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you have a history of gastrointestinal issues or are taking any medications.

When choosing a fibre supplement, look for products that contain a combination of soluble and insoluble fibre. Soluble fibre, found in oats, beans, and fruits, slows digestion and helps lower cholesterol levels. Insoluble fibre, found in whole grain products and vegetables, adds bulk to your stool and helps move food through your digestive system more quickly.

Some common types of fibre supplements include:

• Psyllium: A shrub-like herb that contains both soluble and insoluble fibre. It can help increase feelings of fullness and slow digestion.
• Inulin: A soluble fibre extracted from chicory root that acts as a prebiotic, promoting good bacteria in your gut.
• Methylcellulose: A semisynthetic form of cellulose, an essential structure in plants. It is often found in over-the-counter supplements.
• Wheat dextrin: A soluble fibre that is a byproduct of the wheat milling process. It is tasteless, unflavoured, and can dissolve in hot and cold liquids.

When taking fibre supplements, it is important to drink plenty of water. Fibre needs water to move through the digestive tract effectively. It is also recommended to start with lower doses of fibre and slowly increase the amount to avoid any digestive issues such as bloating or cramping.

Fibre supplements are a convenient way to increase your fibre intake and promote healthy digestion. By choosing the right type of fibre and following the recommended dosage, you can effectively relieve constipation and improve your overall gut health.

Drink castor oil and juice

Castor oil is a natural laxative derived from the castor bean that has been used for thousands of years. It is a stimulant laxative, which means it causes the bowel to move, squeeze, and contract harder than it usually would. This increased motion encourages the stool to pass through the intestine and out of the rectum.

The taste of castor oil is described as very distinct and similar to petroleum jelly. It is also very thick, making it hard to swallow. To mask the taste, you can keep the castor oil in the refrigerator and add your dose to a glass of orange or other fruit juice.

Castor oil typically causes a bowel movement to occur in 2 to 6 hours, so it's best to take it when you have some time to spend at home. It is not recommended for pregnant women or children under 12.

The typical dose for adults is 15 milliliters (ml), which is equal to about half an ounce or 3 teaspoons. However, adults can take between 1 to 4 tablespoons (15 to 60 milliliters) per day to treat occasional constipation.

Try a suppository

Suppositories are a simple herbal preparation using oils, butters, powdered herbs, and/or essential oils in small moulds that are inserted rectally or vaginally. They are quite easy to make and can be used to address many different imbalances.

If you're experiencing constipation, a fast-acting laxative suppository can be used to treat it. However, milder products such as laxatives taken by mouth should be used whenever possible. Bisacodyl is a stimulant laxative that works by increasing the amount of fluid and salts in the intestines, usually resulting in a bowel movement within 15 to 60 minutes.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup cocoa butter
• 1/4 cup coconut oil
• 1 tablespoon infused Calendula officinalis olive oil or coconut oil
• 2 tablespoons powdered dried herb(s) of your choice

Method:

• Combine the cocoa butter and coconut oil in a small saucepan. Melt over medium heat and stir to combine.
• Add the calendula-infused oil and powdered herb(s) of your choice to the saucepan while the cocoa butter and coconut oil are still melted. Stir well to combine.
• Pour the suppository mixture into clean suppository moulds.
• Refrigerate the suppositories until they are firm.
• Store in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to use. If stored properly, suppositories will typically last at least several months.

To use, insert suppositories vaginally or rectally as needed. Lie on your left side with your right knee slightly bent. Gently insert the suppository, pointed end first, toward the navel and well up into the rectum. After insertion, stay in position for 15 to 20 minutes if possible, until you feel a strong urge to have a bowel movement.

Note that you should only use ingredients that you would also feel comfortable eating, such as high-quality, food-grade, organic oils, butters, and herbs. Coconut oil is an ideal carrier oil for suppositories as it is both a liquid and a solid, facilitating the absorption of other oils.

Frequently asked questions