Constipation is a common issue that can lead to discomfort and affect daily life. Fortunately, there are effective home remedies for constipation that can help restore digestive health. From dietary changes to simple lifestyle adjustments, many natural solutions can ease constipation symptoms and promote regularity. In this guide, we’ll explore practical ways to relieve constipation, boost digestion, and support overall well-being naturally.
Understanding the Symptoms and Causes of Constipation
Constipation often leads to the formation of hard and dry stools. When the stool remains in the colon for an extended period, excess water is absorbed, resulting in firmer and more difficult-to-pass stools. The other symptoms of constipation include:
- Straining for bowel movements
- Blockage in the anal or rectal area
- Incomplete evacuation
- Abdominal discomfort
- Bloating
Instant Home Remedy for Constipation Naturally
Several nutrients are essential in relieving constipation and promoting digestive health. A well-balanced diet rich in fibre, Potassium, Vitamin C, probiotics, natural sugars, and omega-3 fatty acids can help prevent and relieve constipation. Below are the 14 immediate constipation home remedies that are easy to follow.
1) Psyllium Husk
The use of psyllium husk is one of the most common constipation home remedies. It is a soluble fibre that swells in water, forming a gel-like substance. This adds bulk to stools, softens them, and promotes regular bowel movements. Mix a teaspoon of psyllium husk with a glass of water or add it to your morning smoothie or breakfast cereal. It provides instant constipation relief. Drinking plenty of water when consuming psyllium is essential to aid its effectiveness.
2) Flaxseeds
Flaxseeds are one of the easily available constipation home remedies. These are rich in both soluble and insoluble fibre, as well as omega-3 fatty acids. It is a natural laxative, softening stools and contributing to overall digestive health. Add ground flaxseeds to your flour or sprinkle ground flaxseed in curd, and salads, or incorporate it into baking recipes. Consuming one to two tablespoons daily can provide a significant fibre boost.
3) Fig or Ficus Carica
In addition to being high in fibre, figs also contain natural sugars, promoting bowel regularity and a gentle laxative effect. It is the best remedy for constipation. Include fresh or dried figs in your daily diet. They can be enjoyed as a snack, or added to cereals for a delicious and nutritious addition.
4) Prune
Prunes contain sorbitol, natural sugar and fibre. It offers a dual action of softening stools and promoting bowel movements. Consume a few prunes daily, either as a snack or added to oatmeal or curd. Prune juice is also a convenient option for those who prefer juices. It can provide immediate constipation relief.
5) Senna or Senai Leaves
Senna leaves have natural laxative properties that stimulate bowel contractions, aiding in the relief of constipation. It is often consumed as a tea. However, it’s crucial to consult with a doctor before regular use, as it can be potent.
6) Revand Chini or Rhubarb
Rhubarb stalk is a natural laxative, enhancing bowel motility and supporting regular bowel movements. You can cook rhubarb stalks, add a sweetener like honey or sugar to improve the taste, as rhubarb can be quite tart. It should be used for short-term management of constipation.
7) Aloe Vera
Aloe vera has soothing properties and acts as a natural laxative, aiding digestive health. Mix aloe vera gel with water or juice in moderation to promote regular bowel movements.
Ensure that the aloe vera used is of food-grade quality. It is one of the long-term used constipation home remedies. For a convenient way to support digestive health and regular bowel movements, you might also consider incorporating aloe vera juice into your diet, which offers similar benefits and can be easily made at home.
8) Pear
Pears are high in fibre and water content, effectively preventing and relieving constipation. Enjoy a seasonal fresh pear as a snack, or add slices to salads and smoothies for a daily fibre boost. Consume it without peeling it.
9) Amla
Amla, or Indian gooseberry, is a rich source of fibre and vitamin C, supporting digestive health and preventing constipation. It exhibits stimulant as well as the bulk laxative effect. Amla can be taken as a long-term treatment for constipation. Include fresh amla in your diet as amla juice, or take it in powdered form with water. Amla can be taken as a pickle or eaten raw.
10) Rhamnus Frangula
Rhamnus frangula, or buckthorn, acts as a natural laxative, stimulating bowel contractions for improved transit. Use buckthorn roots to make tea. Have it in moderation for best results.
11) Dates
Dates contain fibre and natural sugars, acting as a mild laxative to relieve constipation. It can provide immediate constipation relief at home. Include dates in your daily snack routine instead of desserts, or add them to desserts for a tasty and nutritious option. Consuming a few dates regularly can contribute to healthy digestion.
12) Cascara or Rhamnus Purshiana
Cascara is a natural laxative derived from the bark. It stimulates bowel movements and aids in constipation relief. Steep the dried bark into the water and drink it daily to relieve constipation.
13) Plum or Prunus Domestica
Plums, like prunes, contain sorbitol and fibre that effectively prevent and ease constipation. Enjoy fresh plums as a snack or incorporate them as juice to promote regular bowel movement.
14) Acupressure Therapy
Acupressure aids constipation by targeting specific pressure points associated with digestive function. Applying pressure to specific points is believed to stimulate the body’s energy flow, improve bowel movement, and relax abdominal muscles. Seek guidance from a physiotherapist to know the correct points for acupressure.
Besides these constipation home remedies, staying well-hydrated an extremely important part of softening stools and supporting smooth bowel movements. It prevents and relieves constipation. Drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day, aiming for at least eight glasses. Hydration is essential for the effectiveness of fibre-rich remedies. Regular physical activity also enhances digestive function and helps prevent constipation by promoting bowel regularity. Engage in moderate exercise, such as walking or jogging, for at least 30 minutes most days of the week. Physical activity supports overall health, including the digestive system. For specific exercises to help with constipation, check out our article on exercise for constipation.
List of 10 Best Ayurvedic Medicines for Constipation
| Sr.No | Product Name | Key Ingredients | How to Use | Buying Link |
| 1 | Baidyanath Triphala Juice | Amla (5 Ml) + Bahera(terminalia Bellirica) (3.3 Ml) + Harde(terminalia Chebula) (1.6 Ml) | For Adults: Take 20-30 ml mixed with 50-100 ml water before meals. For Children: Take 5-10 ml mixed with 20-25 ml water before meals. | Buy Now |
| 2 | Organic India Whole Husk Psyllium | Organic Indiapsyllium | For adults and children over 12 years: One serving up to 2 times daily. Best to be taken before or between meals. | Buy Now |
| 3. | Baidyanath Vansaar Aloe Vera Juice | Aloe Vera | Pour 30ml of Vansaar Aloe vera Juice into a glass of water.Drink twice daily before meals for best results. | Buy Now |
| 4 | Sri Sri Tattva Wheat Grass Juice | Citric Acid (100 Mg) + Wheatgrass (Triticum Aestivum) (8 Gm) | Add 30ml of the juice to 100ml of water and mix well. Drink twice a day, preferably on an empty stomach or as advised by your Vaidya or Nutritionist | Buy Now |
| 5 | Zandu Nityam Churna | Bibhitaki (3 Gm) + Cassia Angustifolia ( Swarnapatri ) (50 Mg) + Glycyrrhiza Glabra Extract (5 Gm) + Haritaki (3 Gm) + Hemej Terminalia Chebula (6 Gm) + Kala Namak (18 Gm) + Ricinus Communis (1 Gm) + Saunf Foeniculum Vulgare (5 Gm) + Sodium Benzoate (0.5 Gm) + Triphala (3 Gm) | Add one to two teaspoonful (4-8 gm) of Zandu Nityam Churna to a glass of water.Stir gently and consume at bed time.Take as directed by the physician. | Buy Now |
| 6 | Patanjali Divya Chitrakadi Vati | Ajmod (21.42 Mg) + Chavya(piper Retrofractrum) (21.42 Mg) + Hing Ferula Narthex (21.42 Mg) + Kala Lavan (Unaqua Sodium Chloride) (21.42 Mg) + Kala Namak (21.42 Mg) + Maricha (21.42 Mg) + Piper Longum (21.42 Mg) + Piplamool (21.42 Mg) + Plumbago Zeylanica (21.42 Mg) + Samudra Lavana (21.42 Mg) + Sendha Lavan (Sodii Chloridum) (21.42 Mg) + Vida Lavana (21.42 Mg) + Yava(hordeum Vulgare) (21.42 Mg) + Zingiber Officinale (21.42 Mg) | Take 2-4 Patanjali Divya Chitrakadi Vati Tablets thrice daily or as directed by a physician. | Buy Now |
| 7 | Baidyanath Avipattikar Churna | Sonth (Zingiber officinale) (Rh.), Kalimarich (Piper nigrum) (Fr.), Pipal (Piper longum) (Fr.), Haritaki (Terminalia chebula) (Fr.), Baheda (Terminalia belerica) (Fr.), Amla (Embilica officinalis) (Fr.), Nagarmotha (Cyperus rotundus) (Rh.), Vaividang (Embelia ribes) (Fr.), Chhoti Elaichi (Elettaria cardamomum) (Fr.), Tejpata (Cinnamomum tamala) (Lf) , Lawang (Syzygium aromaticum) (Fl.), Nishoth (Operculina turpethum) (Rt), Vid Namak, Sakkar | Take as directed by the physician. | Buy Now |
| 8 | Patanjali Divya Kutajghan Vati | Aconitum Heterophyllum Rt (100 Mg) + Holarrhena Antidysenterica Bk (400 Mg) | Kutajghan Vati Tablet is taken orally, which means it is swallowed with water. | Buy Now |
| 9 | Zandu Pancharishta Ayurvedic Digestive Tonic | Aloe Barbadensis Plant (125 Mg) + Arjuna Termanalia Arjuna (10 Mg) + Asparagus Racemosus Willd (50 Mg) + Badi Elachi (Amomum Suburlactum) (5 Mg) + Bahera(terminalia Bellirica) (10 Mg) + Baladana (Sida Cordifolia) (25 Mg) + Bruhati (Solanum Indicum) (20 Mg) + Cinnamomum Tamala (5 Mg) + Clerodendrum Phlomidis (10 Mg) + Coriandrum Sativum (5 Mg) + Cuminum Cyminum ( Spice Cumin ) (5 Mg) + Curcuma Longa Extract (5 Mg) + Desmodium Gangeticum (20 Mg) + Dhataki(woodfordia Fruticosa) (50 Mg) + Embilica Officinalis Extract (10 Mg) + Glycyrrhiza Glabra Extract (25 Mg) + Gmelina Arborea (10 Mg) + Harde(terminalia Chebula) (10 Mg) + Hashaphool (Trachyspermum Ammi) (5 Mg) + Kishmish (Vitis Vinifera) (125 Mg) + Lavang(syzygium Aromaticum) (5 Mg) + Merr And M Perry Fl Bud (5 Mg) + Organic Bael Leaf ( Aegle Mormelos) (10 Mg) + Oroxylum Indicum (10 Mg) + Piper Longum (5 Mg) + Piper Nigrum (5 Mg) + Rubia Cordifolia (10 Mg) + Sarkara (2250 Mg) + Shati (Hedychium Spicatum) (5 Mg) + Stereospermum Suaveolens (10 Mg) + Symplocos Racemosa (10 Mg) + Tinospora Cordifolia (25 Mg) + Tribulus Terrestris Extract (10 Mg) + Tvak (Cinnamomum Zeylanicam) (5 Mg) + Withania Somnifera Extract (50 Mg) + Zingiber Officinale (5 Mg) | Shake the bottle before consumption. This will help in the proper mixture of all the ingredients.Measure 15-30 ml of Zandu Pancharishta Tonic.Mix the tonic with an equal amount of water before intake. | Buy Now |
| 10 | Kayam Churna | Ajwain Trachyspermum (11.5 %) + Black Salt (18 %) + Hemej Terminalia Chebula (8 %) + Ipomoea Turpethum ( Nishoth ) (3 %) + Senna (50 %) + Svarjiksara (5 %) + Yashtimadhu (4.5 %) | ½ to 1 teaspoon as per requirement at bedtime.Individual results may vary and the dose may be adjusted accordingly. | Buy Now |
Lifestyle Tips for Long-Term Constipation Prevention
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water daily to help soften stool and promote easier bowel movements.
- Eat Fiber-Rich Foods: Include high-fiber foods like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables in your diet to support digestion.
- Exercise Regularly: Engage in physical activities like walking or yoga, which can stimulate intestinal function.
- Set a Routine: Go to the bathroom at the same time each day to help establish regular bowel movements.
- Avoid Overuse of Laxatives: Relying on laxatives can lead to dependency; use them sparingly and consult a doctor if needed.
- Manage Stress: Stress can negatively impact digestion; practice relaxation techniques to maintain digestive health.
When to See a Doctor?
It’s important to see a doctor for constipation if you experience severe or persistent symptoms. Signs that warrant a visit include constipation lasting more than three weeks, severe abdominal pain, blood in your stool, or unexpected weight loss. If constipation occurs frequently or interferes with daily life, a doctor can help identify underlying causes and suggest treatment. People with conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, or irritable bowel syndrome should also consult a doctor if constipation becomes an issue. Early medical advice can prevent complications and ensure a treatment plan that helps maintain long-term digestive health.
Takeaway
Constipation is a common digestive concern. Lack of insuffecient fibre in diet can lead to the formation of hard and dry stools which can be difficult-to-pass. Besides fibre, certain medications, health issues such as diabetes, hypothyroidism, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, dementia and intestinal cancer can also cause constipation. Constipation home remedies are the most effective and natural way to treating constipation. Incorporating foods rich in fibre, natural sugars act as natural laxatives to relieve constipation. The most commonly available ones include Psyllium husk, Flaxseed, dates, prunes, figs, plums, amla and aloe vera. Applying acupressure on certain body areas can also promote bowel regularity and alleviate discomfort. If your symptoms are not improving even after using these home remedies, consider taking laxatives after consulting your doctor. Laxatives or stool softeners can provide relief if natural remedies do not improve constipation. Follow your doctor’s prescription and recommendations for the appropriate use of laxatives or stool softeners. Ensure you use them under guidance to prevent dependency.
FAQs
To quickly relieve constipation, try drinking a warm beverage, eating high-fiber foods like prunes or oats, or doing light exercise, such as a brisk walk. These actions stimulate digestion and bowel movements.
For fast relief, try drinking warm water with lemon, consuming prunes or prune juice, or using an over-the-counter stool softener. These options help hydrate the intestines and can aid a quick bowel movement.
Drinking warm water, herbal teas (like ginger or peppermint), or fruit juices high in sorbitol (such as prune juice or apple juice) can help soften stools and stimulate digestion.
To manage constipation, maintain a diet rich in fiber, stay hydrated, exercise regularly, and establish a consistent bathroom routine. A healthcare provider can also suggest suitable remedies if constipation persists.
Fruits high in fiber like apples, pears, kiwis, and prunes are effective for relieving constipation. They promote bowel movements by adding bulk to stools and keeping them soft.
Ripe bananas can help with constipation as they contain fiber and provide moisture to stool. However, unripe bananas can sometimes worsen constipation, so it’s best to stick with ripe ones.
Drinking warm water, sitting in a squat-like position, and practicing deep breathing can help make bowel movements easier. Regular hydration and high-fiber foods can also improve stool consistency and ease passage.
References
- Wang, X., & Yin, J. (2015). Complementary and alternative therapies for chronic constipation. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine: ECAM, 2015, 396396. https://doi.org/10.1155/2015/396396
- S. D. (2022). A narrative review on the natural remedies used in the prevention and symptomatic treatment of constipation in the middle east. Herbal Medicines Journal, 7(4), 158–165. https://doi.org/10.22087/hmj.v7i4.879
- Jani, B., & Marsicano, E. (2018). Constipation: Evaluation and management. Missouri Medicine, 115(3), 236–240.