Top 7 Herbs to Combat Constipation

If you have a bowel movement fewer than three times a week, you are constipated. It can be occasional or chronic. There are two types:

• Constipation linked to a bowel motility disorder: the large intestine becomes sluggish, the muscle contracts poorly or not at all, and stool moves slowly through the tract

• Terminal constipation: when stools are too dry, passing them seems difficult. The colon, which must reabsorb water, cannot do its job if there is insufficient water. As a result, stools are hard and dry

1. Psyllium

2. Flaxseeds

3. Rhubarb

4. Senna

5. Buckthorn

6. Rosemary 

7. Aloe Vera 

What is the best plant for constipation?

Ispaghul (or blond psyllium) is often touted as the most effective plant for constipation. Small in size, it is a plantain native to India and Pakistan. It produces fruits with small reddish-brown seeds, which are naturally laxative. Their husks contain mucilage, a substance that can absorb up to 60 times its volume in water. It then turns into a gelatinous mass that lubricates the stool and facilitates its passage through the colon. This plant is gentle and will not irritate the intestinal lining, making it a true natural remedy for chronic constipation. Ispaghul husks are available in capsule form or as effervescent powders. 

Which laxative herbal tea is best for constipation?

In cases of constipation, hot beverages are highly recommended. They help dilate the blood vessels in the digestive system, and the heat facilitates bowel movement. They contribute to fluid intake, hydrating the colon and supporting healthy bowel function. Certain laxative herbs can be consumed as herbal teas to relieve constipation. 

Flaxseeds

Flaxseeds (Linum usitatissimum) are known for their many benefits: lowering cholesterol levels, relieving menopausal symptoms, and protecting cells thanks to their Omega-3 content, but they do even more than that. In fact, they’re also very effective at stimulating bowel movements and softening stools. Just like blond psyllium seeds, they contain mucilage that retains water and shortens transit time, while increasing stool volume. To use them, steep 15g of flaxseeds in a cup of hot water. Drink this infusion up to three times a day to treat chronic constipation. 

Drink a Rhubarb Infusion

Rich in pectin and anthraquinone, rhubarb promotes bowel movements and acts as a natural laxative. It ensures proper stomach function and speeds up digestion. While it can be eaten as a fruit, when consumed as a tea, it provides real relief from occasional constipation. Steep 1.5g of dried, crushed rhubarb roots in 200ml of boiling water for about ten minutes. This tea is very effective, but should not be consumed by pregnant women, as rhubarb promotes contractions. 

Treating Constipation with Senna

Native to India, Senna (Cassia angustifolia) is a plant used to treat occasional constipation. It contains active ingredients, natural derivatives of anthraquinone, which support the work of the intestinal flora during digestion and stimulate peristaltic movements. Senna tea helps soften stools and increase their volume, facilitating bowel movements. To prepare it, add one teaspoon of senna leaves to a cup of hot water and let it steep for 10 to 15 minutes. 

Bucthorn, Effective Against Constipation

Buckthorn (Frangula alnus) is a plant recommended for constipation, as its active ingredient has an irritating effect on the intestinal walls, which stimulates bowel movements. This plant grows in the humid forests of Europe. Its dried bark is used to promote the passage of stool through the colon, as it hydrates the stool and facilitates its expulsion. Before use, the bark must be dried for at least one or two years to become bitter and less astringent. It is then available for purchase at pharmacies and used as a tea. Steep 0.5g of dried buckthorn in 15cl of water for 10 minutes. Drink in the evening for results the next morning. 

Rosemary for Constipation

Rosemary is recommended for bloating, cramps, and constipation. The leaves of this aromatic Mediterranean plant are ideal for treating digestive issues thanks to the flavonoids, anti-inflammatory compounds, they contain. While it enhances dishes, adds flavor, and helps with intestinal discomfort, drinking a rosemary tea after a meal is also a good idea. To make it, boil some water and add a few rosemary leaves. Let it steep for 10 minutes and drink up to three times a day. 

Aloe Vera for Constipation

While Aloe vera has many health benefits, when taken internally, it also improves digestive comfort and aids in the elimination of toxins. In fact, its effects are recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO), and it acts as a natural remedy for occasional constipation. Aloe vera contains aloin, a substance that stimulates bowel movements. To reap its benefits, you can drink fresh aloe vera juice made from the gel. Consume 30ml (2 tablespoons) daily on an empty stomach to ensure the active ingredients are most effective. 

If constipation is accompanied by blood in the stool, persistent abdominal pain, nausea, fever, or vomiting, you should see your doctor immediately.

Psyllium or flax seeds are so-called bulk-forming laxatives, which can cause bloating or increased intestinal gas. They should not be consumed by pregnant women, the elderly, or children.

Irritant laxative plants such as rhubarb or aloe vera can lead to a loss of minerals, potassium, and sodium. They should not be used if you have inflammatory bowel disease, constipation, or abdominal pain of unknown origin or caused by a blockage in the digestive tract. Before using herbal remedies to relieve constipation, be sure to consult a healthcare professional. 

To prevent occasional constipation, drink enough water throughout the day—at least 1.5 litres. Also, prioritize high-fibre foods, fruits, vegetables, and wholegrains. Avoid processed foods, overly fatty products, and ready-made meals, which are often spicy and highly processed.

Lauréna is a journalist specialising in lifestyle, wellness and psychology. Alongside her writing, she travels the world, discovering all it has to teach us.