Herbal Laxatives: Natural Relief

Natural laxatives are a great way to relieve constipation without resorting to medication. They are often gentler than prescription or over-the-counter laxatives and can be easily incorporated into your diet. The best natural laxatives include foods that are rich in fibre, osmotic nutrients like magnesium, and probiotics, as well as water.

Fibre-rich foods such as legumes, chia seeds, flaxseeds, leafy greens, and fruits like berries and prunes can help to bulk up your stool and stimulate the colon to contract. Probiotics like yoghurt and kefir can also help to improve digestion and relieve constipation by introducing healthy bacteria into your gut.

Osmotic nutrients like magnesium in leafy greens and fruits can help to soften stools by drawing water into the intestines. In addition, certain drinks like coffee and prune juice can act as stimulant laxatives, triggering your colon muscles to push stools out.

While natural laxatives are generally safe and effective, it's important to remember that they may not work for everyone, especially in cases of severe constipation. It's always a good idea to speak with your doctor before incorporating any new remedies into your routine, especially if you have underlying health issues.

Bulk-forming laxatives

Common bulk-forming laxatives include psyllium (Metamucil), polycarbophil (FiberCon), and methylcellulose (Citrucel). They are available in powder and capsule form and can be purchased over the counter in pharmacies, grocery stores, and online.

It is important to note that bulk-forming laxatives should be taken with at least 8 ounces of water or fruit juice to prevent bowel obstruction. Staying well-hydrated throughout the day is also important. It may take 12 hours to 3 days to feel relief from bulk-forming laxatives.

While bulk-forming laxatives are generally safe, they may cause side effects such as mild stomach pain, bloating, or gas. People with kidney disease or diabetes are at risk of electrolyte imbalances when taking laxatives, so it is important to consult a doctor before use if you have either of these conditions. Additionally, laxatives may impact how the body absorbs medications, so it is recommended to take any medication at least 2 hours before or after taking a laxative.

Osmotic laxatives

How Osmotic Laxatives Work

Constipation occurs when stools are infrequent and difficult to pass. Osmotic laxatives can help relieve constipation by increasing the amount of fluid in the intestines, softening the stools. Osmotic laxatives alter the balance of water in the wall of the colon and the inside of the colon (lumen). The term "osmotic" refers to the movement of fluid through a membrane so that the concentration is equal on both sides.

Common Osmotic Laxatives

There are several common osmotic laxatives available, each with different active ingredients:

• Polyethylene glycol (PEG): An organic compound derived from petroleum. Available over the counter as Miralax and GlycoLax.
• Lactulose: A type of sugar that is not absorbed by the intestine. Available by prescription as Cephulac, Duphalac, Kristalose, etc.
• Sorbitol: Another non-absorbable sugar. Available over the counter and by prescription as Arlex and GeriCare.
• Magnesium citrate: Magnesium in salt form combined with citric acid. Available over the counter as Citrate of Magnesia, Citroma, and LiquiPrep.
• Magnesium hydroxide: A milder form of magnesium sold as Milk of Magnesia. Available over the counter.

Possible Side Effects

Stool softeners

In addition to medication, natural stool softeners include lifestyle changes such as drinking more water, getting regular exercise, and increasing daily fibre intake. These can help to prevent constipation and keep your digestive system healthy.

Lubricant laxatives

Mineral oil is a lubricant laxative that can be taken orally or as an enema. It is important to carefully follow the directions on the product package or a doctor's instructions when taking mineral oil. It should not be used by older adults, children under 6, or people who are bedridden. It can interfere with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and other medications, so it is important to take it on an empty stomach and at least 2 hours apart from other medications. It may take 6 to 8 hours for mineral oil to cause a bowel movement. Side effects may include anal seepage, pruritus ani, perianal discomfort, and intestinal malabsorption.

Saline laxatives

Sodium phosphate is another common saline laxative. It is often prescribed in conjunction with other products to clean the stool from the intestines before surgery or certain bowel procedures, such as a colonoscopy or radiography. It is important to note that sodium phosphate may cause dehydration and kidney problems, especially in young children and older adults. Therefore, it should be used with caution and only as directed by a doctor.

Although saline laxatives can be effective in treating constipation, it is recommended to use milder products, such as stool softeners or bulk-forming laxatives, whenever possible. Prolonged use of saline laxatives may lead to laxative dependence, resulting in ongoing constipation and loss of normal bowel function. To prevent this, it is advised to consult a doctor if you need to use saline laxatives or other laxative products for more than seven days.

Frequently asked questions