4 Surefire Home Remedies for Constipation

When you’re suffering from constipation, it can feel as though your whole world is backed up, waiting for you to go. Instead of just sitting around waiting for a bowel movement, Dr. Nandi’s here to share his favorite home remedies to get you going. That way, you can become your own health hero.

Take Oil

It may sound funny when talking about your bowels, but oil acts as a lubricant and can literally grease the path when you have constipation. It also stimulates the digestive system and can both cure and prevent constipation. Opt for one tablespoon of pure olive or flaxseed oil in the morning before breakfast. Mixing in a squirt of lemon juice disguises the flavor, and the citric acid helps flush out toxins and other undigested materials.

Increase Your Fiber Intake

You already know your body needs a variety of fruits and vegetables for nutrients and minerals, but your body also needs fiber. Fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains give you the roughage you need to soften your stool and bulk it up, making it easier to pass. If you tend to eat a lot of pre-made, processed foods, switch up your diet to real foods and you’ll notice the difference.

Stick to a Schedule

When it comes to having bowel movements, your body does better on a schedule. Give yourself 10 to 15 minutes two to three times a day to sit on the toilet and relax. You can’t rush things when you’re constipated, but you don’t want to linger either. Sitting on the toilet too long can lead to other problems, such as hemorrhoids.

Use Epsom Salt

The idea of using salt may never have crossed your mind, but Epsom salt can work wonders when you’re constipated. It pulls water in, absorbing it into your stool, making it softer and easier to pass. Epsom salt also contains magnesium, which naturally starts bowel contractions—just what you need to get things moving.

Partha’s Rx

• Add two tablespoons of aloe directly from the plant to a glass of water to help bowels move
• Eat prunes, a natural—and gentle—laxative that are high in fiber and sorbitol, both which relieve constipation
• Mix one to two teaspoons of dried dandelion leaves with hot water to make a tea that is both a laxative and a detox
• Drink orange juice with pulp to increase liquids and fiber to help ease constipation
• Mix one teaspoon of baking soda with ¼ cup of water to get things moving