Marc Holland
Natural laxatives are substances that may help relieve constipation. They come in many forms, like pills, powders, liquids, foods, drinks, and herbs. They may also be found in oils and fermented foods. The main goal is to soften stools and get the bowels moving. Natural laxatives are a by-product of plants, and they aid constipated patients.
There are several types of laxatives, and they work in different ways. Here are some examples:
- Bulk-forming laxatives boost the size of stools, making them easier to pass.
- Stool softeners pull water into the intestines, softening stools for easy passage.
- Lubricant laxatives cover the stool surface and make it slippery for easy passage.
- Osmotic laxatives pull water into the bowels, making bowel movements easier by making stools bulkier.
- Stimulant laxatives cause the intestines to contract, speeding up the movement of stool.
Some natural laxatives that work fast include:
- Magnesium citrate
- Aloe vera
- Chia seeds
- Flaxseeds
- Leafy greens
- Prune juice
- Coconut water
- Senna
- Psyllium
- Mineral oil
- Castor oil
- Cascara sagrada
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Natural Laxative Types | Bulk-forming laxatives, Stool softeners, Lubricant laxatives, Saline laxatives, Stimulant laxatives |
| How They Work | Bulk-forming laxatives move through the body undigested, absorbing water and swelling to form stools. Stool softeners increase the amount of water absorbed by stools to make them softer. Lubricant laxatives coat the surfaces of stools and intestinal lining to keep in moisture. Saline laxatives draw water into the small intestine to encourage a bowel movement. Stimulant laxatives speed the movement of the digestive system to induce a bowel movement. |
| Natural Laxative Foods | Chia seeds, Berries, Legumes, Flaxseed, Kefir, Leafy greens, Prunes, Apples, Oat bran, Kiwi, Avocado, Figs, Jackfruit, Rose apple, Pear, Banana, Papaya, Oranges, Cherries, Plums, Macauba palm |
| Natural Laxative Drinks | Water, Prune juice, Coffee, Aloe vera juice, Coconut water |
| Natural Laxative Herbs | Senna, Ginger, Peppermint, Aloe vera |
What You'll Learn
Bulk-forming laxatives
Common Bulk-Forming Laxatives
Common bulk-forming laxatives include psyllium (Metamucil), polycarbophil (FiberCon), and methylcellulose (Citrucel). These are available in powder and capsule form.
How Bulk-Forming Laxatives Work
Benefits of Bulk-Forming Laxatives
Side Effects and Precautions
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Stool softeners
There are two types of fibre that help with stool softening: soluble and insoluble. Soluble fibre absorbs water in the gut to form a gel-like substance that helps soften stools. Insoluble fibre does not absorb water but moves through the body intact, increasing the bulk of the stool for easier passage.
- Probiotics are live, beneficial bacteria found in fermented foods such as kefir, sauerkraut, yoghurt, kimchi, miso, kombucha, and tempeh. They are also available as supplements and yoghurt-type drinks. Probiotics help preserve the gut microbiome, which plays a key role in fighting infections, inflammation, and chronic diseases.
- Olive oil helps ease constipation by lining the inside of the bowel and making stools easier to pass. It also helps the stool hold more water, making it softer. One tablespoon of olive oil, taken on an empty stomach, can help relieve constipation in most adults.
- Aloe vera juice comes from the leaves of aloe vera plants. Aloe leaves are rich in compounds that help ease inflammation of the digestive tract. To help soften the stool, a person can consume aloe vera juice by adding it to smoothies or juices or drinking it on its own.
- Epsom salt can be added to bath water to help soothe aching muscles, but it can also be taken orally as a natural treatment for constipation. It increases the amount of water in the intestines, softening the stool.
- Mineral oil is a lubricant laxative. When delivered orally, it coats the stool and the bowel in a waterproof film, helping the stool retain moisture so that it passes more easily.
- Exercise stimulates the digestive system and can help relieve constipation.
- Water helps prevent and treat constipation by softening dry stools and improving overall digestion.
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Lubricant laxatives
Mineral oil is an example of a lubricant laxative. It is available in liquid or enema form and can be taken by mouth as directed by a doctor or according to the product package instructions. It is important to carefully measure the dose using a special device or spoon, as taking too much can lead to leakage and irritation. Mineral oil should not be used by older adults, children under 6, or bedridden individuals. It can also interfere with the absorption of certain vitamins, so it is recommended to take it on an empty stomach and at least 2 hours apart from other medications.
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Osmotic laxatives
Magnesium citrate is an example of an osmotic laxative. It is available as an over-the-counter supplement and has been shown to provide quick relief, often within a few hours of taking it. It is also one of the fastest-acting laxatives available.
Other osmotic laxatives include milk of magnesia and glycerin, which are available in liquid, caplet, enema, or suppository form. These osmotic laxatives help the colon retain more water, increasing the frequency of bowel movements.
It is important to note that while osmotic laxatives and other over-the-counter or prescription treatments can provide short-term relief for constipation, they do not address any underlying digestive issues and can sometimes make the problem worse. Natural laxatives, such as those derived from plants, are often a better option and can be just as effective in relieving constipation.
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Saline laxatives
Liquid magnesium citrate is another example of a saline laxative and is considered one of the fastest-acting natural laxatives. It increases the amount of water in the intestinal tract, softening the stool and causing a bowel movement within 30 minutes.
While saline laxatives can be effective in treating constipation, it is important to prioritise fibre-rich foods, drink plenty of water, and exercise regularly to prevent constipation and maintain a healthy digestive system.
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Frequently asked questions
Saline laxatives, such as magnesium citrate, can work in as little as 30 minutes. Coffee is also known to have a quick effect.
Natural laxative foods include chia seeds, berries, legumes, flaxseeds, leafy greens, prunes, and kiwis. These foods are rich in fiber and can help to soften stools and improve bowel movements.
Natural laxatives are less likely to cause unpleasant side effects than OTC or prescription laxatives. They also do not carry the same risk of addiction, as the body can become reliant on stimulant laxatives over time.
