Constipation is a bowel disorder that affects many, up to 15% of the general population. A large majority don’t even try to treat the condition, and a great fraction of those who do do not ask for advice from health professionals. The reluctance to seek advice is understandable, given that constipation involves embarrassing biological functions.

Because of the stigma associated with this condition, some of those who do seek treatment attempt home-based or natural remedies. A good understanding of such treatments is necessary to avoid any potential hazards. One should note that just because some constipation treatments are natural, it doesn’t mean they are safe.

The most popular herbal remedy may be the senna plant. Senna contains anthraquinones, a class of chemicals that has the effect of stimulating the intestines. The cascara plant played some small role many years ago but was effectively banned by the FDA on account of evidence that it was harmful. Nowadays senna is available in capsule or tea form amongst others. Senna has played a historical role as a laxative and continues to do so today.

A different kind of home constipation treatment is mineral oil. When taken orally, the oil coats the outer surface of the stool and other stomach contents, helping them retain fluid. With more fluid, the stool isn’t as hard or dense and thus moves more efficiently through the colon. Such a mode of action is in contrast to senna which exerts its effects chemically. Mineral oil is termed a lubricant laxative even though it acts nothing like engine oil lubricant or any other lubricating oil.

The most common type of home-based constipation treatments would be fiber-based agents. A well-known example is psyllium. Psyllium is a plant whose seeds are very high in concentration of fiber. It can be ground into powder form and dissolved into water for drinking. At general health stores and major pharmacies, psyllium is sold under various labels like Metamucil.

The flaxseed is another source of high fiber. These can be crushed like psyllium or taken whole. An additional benefit that some have reported is that consumption of flaxseed can lower cholesterol. However, such results need more confirmation and research. The oils that are extracted from flaxseed are not as palatable to most people.

It’s true of any natural treatment that the advice of a health professional be sought. A physician has much more expertise and knowledge than a layman on whether a natural constipation treatment is reasonable or not. Even if it’s effective, any particular treatment may have warnings on who should and shouldn’t take it. Acquiring more knowledge about the warnings should be of paramount importance for any subject.

Get for free the most up-to-date news and facts concerning constipation treatments. If you are interested in amitiza, come check out our site.

• Top Five Constipation Causes and What You Can Do to Feel Relief
• Dog Constipation? Home Remedies That Cure Dog Constipation
• What Kinds of Food For Constipation Are Best?
• Home Remedies For Constipation - Are They Effective?
• Home Remedies for Constipation - Top 12 Users Recommended Home Remedies