The Usefulness Of Natural Treatments For Constipation
Constipation is a rather widespread condition that is thought to affect about 15% of all people. Most people do not try to treat it and even fewer seek help from a health authority. Likely because this is an embarrassing condition to most people which gives them great reluctance to report their condition to their personal physicians.
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.
Amongst herbal remedies, the most widespread may be senna. Years ago cascara was another herb that was used, but the FDA put its foot down due to safety concerns. Senna can still be obtained as an herbal substance. Many will find the tea form easy to take and effective, whereas others might find the capsule more convenient. In both forms, senna derives its efficacy from the presence of anthraquinoids, a class of compounds that stimulates the intestines.
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.
More widespread than either of the above are natural constipation treatments based on fiber. A popular one is psyllium. The psyllium plant is famous for having seeds that contain a lot of fiber. The seeds are usually processed into fine powder form which can then be dissolved. Retailers like nutritional supplement stores carry brand names like Metamucil which are incarnations of psyllium.
Flaxseed or linseed is another well-known natural source of fiber. The seeds are sometimes ground into powder like psyllium. Some research indicates that people taking psyllium can benefit from lower cholesterol. But as is with many scientific results, these bear closer scrutiny and study. Linseed oil is not taken as it has a strong odor.
As with any form of natural treatment, it’s advised that the subject seek the help of a health professional. A doctor would be best informed in knowing whether a home-based constipation treatment is good for you or not. Of particular concern is that some of these home-based agents have associated contraindications for people with certain conditions. Learning more about these warnings from the physician would be a wise task.
If you are interested in constipation treatments, come check out our site. Discover the newest research and writings in regards to chronic constipation treatments.