The Usefulness Of Home Treatments For Constipation
Posted By on February 9, 2010
The condition of being constipated is endemic to the population of most countries with an incidence rate pegged at about 15%. Most of the people who are afflicted make no attempt to treat, and even less ask for advice or help from a health services figure. This is understandable as the condition is somewhat embarrassing, which explains the general reluctant to report to 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.
The most commonly used herb is the senna plant. The senna plant has powerful laxative properties due to high concentrations of anthraquinones. Anthraquinones have been found to increase intestinal activity and speed up movement of stool. It can be obtained as either tablets or in bags of leaves to be prepared as a tea. The cascara plant also has a history of being a natural laxative but has since been banned by the FDA.
Mineral oil is another home constipation treatment used by many people. Unlike senna, it doesn’t act as a chemical stimulant of the colon. Instead, mineral oil coats the stool while its in the intestinal space, which helps it retain fluid. Soft, bulky stools move more quickly through the intestine. This class of agents is called a lubricant laxative, although the name is a bit of a misnomer as its mode of action is nothing like lubrication in an engine by engine oil.
Most people don’t know about senna and mineral oil, but almost everyone knows that fiber is a great remedy for constipation. The psyllium plant is one of the best sources of fiber. The husks of its seeds are turned into powdered form and sold at nutrient and supplement stores. Metamucil is but one of the many companies who manufacture products made from psyllium.
The linseed, otherwise known as flaxseed, is an additional high-fiber source. It’s occasionally treated like psyllium and crushed into powder form. Taking it not only helps with constipation due to its fiber, but may reduce cholesterol according to limited reports. More research will confirm or invalidate these results. The oil of the linseed is not often used.
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 latest information and facts concerning constipation treatments. If you are interested in causes of constipation, come check out our site.