Natural Ayurvedic Remedies For Constipation
Constipation is defined as a condition where there is difficulty in emptying the bowels usually associated with hard feces. It is irregular, infrequent evacuation of the bowels. Some of the symptoms of constipation include discomfort, dry hard feces, flatulence, abdominal pain, headaches and bad breath. From a western standpoint, constipation is defined as having 3 or less bowel movements per week. However according to the ancient science of Ayurveda, constipation is defined as having dry hard stools and/or missing a daily bowel movement.

Etiology:
According to the ancient science of Ayurveda, constipation is usually caused by:

• Insufficient water intake
• Overconsumption of dry, cold and heavy foods
• Insufficient fiber intake
• Lack of exercise
• Overconsumption of caffeine and soft drinks
• Changes in life and routine/ travelling
• Suppressing the urge to defecate
• Overuse of laxatives
• IBS
• Side effect of certain medications

Manifestation:
People who are prone to constipation are generally of the light and airy constitution. These people usually have excess dry and cold qualities in the body and therefore succumb to irregular and hard bowel movements more so than others. Hence it is important to avoid dry, cold and heavy foods and to also take care in avoiding the above causes of constipation.

The large intestine functions in packaging and eliminating feces. In doing so, water is absorbed to assist in the formation of the stools. When there is insufficient water, the stools become dryer and harder and therefore more difficult to dispel.

Great Video ~ How To Relieve Constipation Naturally

General Recommendations:

1. Drinking more water and avoiding all the above causes.
2. A proper diet according to one’s constitution should be followed and in cases of constipation favor warm oily foods with cooked vegetables and warm drinks.
3. Avoid ice cold food and beverages, salads, beans and dried fruits and nuts.
4. Include more fiber in the diet. Fresh fruit and vegetables are a good source of fiber, as well as oatmeal, bran and flaxseeds.
5. Fruit such as ripe bananas, apples, raisins, prunes, peaches and pineapples can also help alleviate constipation.
6. Walking regularly is extremely beneficial in relieving constipation.

Natural Remedies For Constipation

• 1-2 tsp of ghee (clarified butter) in a cup of hot milk before bed is a safe and effective way for inducing a bowel movement.
• Take 1-2 tsp of castor oil + 1/2 tsp of ginger powder in a cup of hot water before bed. Caution must be practiced with castor oil as it can create dependency as a laxative use.
• Consume a handful of figs, raisins and prunes that have been soaked in water overnight
• Drinking ginger tea regularly can also alleviate constipation
• Massage the abdomen in clockwise circular motions with castor oil before bed.

Herbal Remedies:

1. Triphala is one of the most popular ayurvedic herbs for GI health. Taking a teaspoon of triphala in a cup of hot water before bed can help to clear the colon and bring relief from constipation.
2. Gandharva Haritaki – a formulation of the herb haritaki sautéed in castor oil is also effective in cleansing out the colon. Take ½ – 1 teaspoon in hot water before bed
3. Sat Isabgol (Psyllium husk) is an excellent bulk laxative herb for treating constipation. Take 1 tsp in a cup of hot milk before bed.
4. Taking 1-2 teaspoons of Avipattikar throughout the day is beneficial in regulating the bowels

~ Prevention is Key ~

The best way to avoid any disorder is prevention. Enjoying a balancing diet and lifestyle can help maintain optimum health. Some additional points to consider:

• Enemas are a useful way to help alleviate constipation. Using the herbs; Triphala or Dashmoola in a tea as an enema will relieve constipation immediately.
• Yoga and Pranayamas (breathing exercises) are effective techniques in maintenance of health and wellbeing. Certain yoga poses such as Dhanurasana and pawanmuktasana are particularly beneficial for constipation. Always seek advice from a professional yoga instructor/teacher.