Chronic constipation herbal remedy | bowel movement regularity

Constipation is considered to be a symptom rather than a disease. While we feel uncomfortable if even a day passes without a bowel movement, constipation is only said to occur if there are less than 3 bowel movements in a week. Severe constipation is less than 1 bowel movement in a week.

Discomfort can also be caused by hard stools or difficulty in passing stools. Generally as we age, bowel movements become less frequent.

The following are considered to be common constipation symptoms

Hard stools that are difficult to pass

Infrequent bowel movements

Prolonged straining

Flatulence

Nausea

Abdominal pain

Bloating in the stomach, headaches and loss of appetite

Coating on the tongue and bad breath

The following are a few simple measures that can help correct constipation.

On waking up drink a glass of warm water

Drink warm water or warm milk before going to bed

Have small meals at regular intervals throughout the day instead of 3 large meals. This allows for increased metabolism and proper absorption.

Have a fibre rich diet that includes fruits and vegetables with the skin, whole wheat, oatmeal and nuts.

Drink plenty of water

Reduce consumption of alcohol and sodas.

Daily exercise - especially walking helps to regularise bowel movements

Ayurveda recommends herbal remedies such as Triphala for effective digestion and regular bowel movements. Herbolax is a herbal formulation manufactured by Himalaya Herbals. It helps correct constipation by softening stools and improving intestinal motility. It does not disturb the fluid-electrolyte balance and does not create dependance.