AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF CONSTIPATION

About 10-20% people throughout world is suffering with this serious condition called constipation. Our inactivate life style, lack of water and fibre intake and lesser physical exercise are responsible for causing this serious health condition. We all opting for western diets and we and our children are very happy to eat fatty, sugary and fried diet, but we all ignore the health hazard effects of these foods we are taking in our daily life. These western diets not give rise to this single problem called constipation but are also linked with other serious health conditions such as diabetes, obesity, hypertension, hearth and various other nervous system related problems. It is a major problem that causes torn skin and swollen veins. These swollen veins finally are interlinked with piles and haemorrhoids. Irregularity of bowel is considered as very dangerous conditions.

Constipation may be defined as a serious condition that is associated with our digestive system in which individual has too much hard stool which is very difficult to expel it out. Emptying of stomach becomes very difficult and excessively painful. Abdominal cramps, excessive abdominal pain, flatus, bloating, abdominal distension, feeling of nausea and loss of appetite are the various symptoms that individual feels while suffering with this problem. This condition is considered to be chronic one and the sufferer experiences these symptoms continuously for three months or more.

Lack of exercise, unhealthy eating habits, lack of water and fibre, skipping meals, depression and anxiety and regular intake of certain medications are responsible to cause this condition associated with digestive system. Growing age and pregnancy are other factors that are also associated with this problem.

How constipation is treated with Ayurveda herbs?

When it comes to fix this critical condition of digestive system then herbs of Ayurveda are very effective and best treatment. Changes in our diet, daily exercise and regular use of some effective herbs of Ayurveda  give relief from this problem and help in fixing of this problem naturally. These herbs help to treat constipation and make our bowel movements normal. Below mentioned are the very beneficial laxative herbs of Ayurveda that help to treat this condition naturally without any side effects.

• Rose – Gulaab (Rosa damascena) – laxative and prokinetic effects of Rosa damascena help to treat constipation in very natural way. This herb is very beneficial remedy to treat constipation and various menstruation related problems. It is very effective anti-inflammatory, digestive, anti-oxidant, anti-depressant, analgesic, diuretic and laxative herb of Ayurveda. In Ayurveda this herb is used for treating abdominal pain, chest pain and various digestive system related issues. It is best remedy to treat constipation and menstrual bleeding related problems.
• Mentha- Pudina (Mentha arvensis) – Menthol present in this herb helps as stimulant for digestive system and improves our digestion. This herb helps to treat severe abdominal cramps, aches and chest pain. Regular use of this herb helps in softening the stool and used to treat this serious condition called constipation. It is also very effective remedy for various respiratory system related problems like common cold, cough, flu, asthma and bronchitis. Oil obtained from this herb is very effective remedy for digestive problems, irritable bowel syndrome and severe constipation. This herb is also a help to aid various digestive problems in small children. Regular use of this herb helps to combat with constipation and improve our bowel movements.
• Ginger – Shunthi (Zingiber officinale) – Ginger in Ayurveda is used to treat various gastro-intestinal problems. In sufferers of constipation this herb helps to reduce nausea and vomiting. It improves the poor digestion and help to treat excessive bloating and flatus. It is a natural carminative and laxative herb of Ayurveda. It is also used to treat various other ailments like ulcers, arthritis, diabetes and vomiting. According to Ayurveda this herbal remedy is best for upset stomach, colic and severe constipation.
• Haritaki (Terminalia chebula) – this herb of Ayurveda is best to treat digestive system related problems. Regular use of this herb helps to improve appetite, stimulate our digestion and help to cure serious constipation. It helps to regulate normal bowel movements and softening of stool in sufferers of constipation. This herb is also very essential to combat with various gastro-intestinal problems like bloating, flatus, ascites, irritable bowel syndrome, piles and serious troubles of colon. It is also effective herb that gives very beneficiary results in cases of food poisoning also. It is effective anti-oxidant herb that improves immunity and fight against various infections. This herb is also rich source of vitamin C. it helps in lowering cholesterol and good for treating heart related issues.
• Senna–Sanaaya (Cassia augustifolia) -Senna is widely used herb of Ayurveda that is used to treat constipation. It is very effective herb of Ayurveda that fights against chronic constipation, irritable bowel syndrome and various other gastro-intestinal problems. This herb of Ayurveda is widely recommended for sufferers of piles, haemorrhoids and sufferers with various rectal surgeries. Sennosides present in this herb are bio-active compounds that possesses laxative effects and help to cure chronic constipation.

Above mentioned herbs of Ayurveda are very effective remedies that give relief from this chronic condition easily without causing any side effects. All these laxative herbs individually have strong effects on our digestive system. So combination of all these herbs is surprising treatment for this chronic and painful uncomfortable condition.

Combination of all these herbs to fight this condition naturally in form of Bowelax powder manufactured  by Yamuna Pharmacy  is available in the market . It is a mild laxative powder and regular use of this powder helps to improve peristaltic movements of our intestines. Regular use of Bowelax powder helps in softening of impacted stool. Regular intake of this beneficial remedy eradicates chronic constipation, flatus and severe bloating. It is also very effective in females because it helps to treat dysmenorrhoea associated with constipation. For its better and satisfactory results 4-6 grams of Bowelax powder should be recommended for constipation patient daily with warm water at bed time.

Ayurvedic Management of Constipation

Constipation is a common digestive issue characterized by difficulty in passing stools, infrequent bowel movements, or hard and dry stools. In Ayurveda, constipation is often caused by an imbalance in the Vata dosha, which governs movement and elimination. When Vata becomes imbalanced (due to poor diet, stress, lack of physical activity, etc.), it can lead to dry, hard stools, and difficulty in bowel movements. Additionally, Pitta and Kapha imbalances can also contribute to constipation in specific ways.

Causes of Constipation in Ayurveda

1. Vata Imbalance: Vata governs the movement of the body, including the bowel movement. When Vata becomes aggravated, it causes dryness, which leads to hard stools and difficulty in elimination.

2. Pitta Imbalance: If Pitta is imbalanced, it may lead to excessive heat in the digestive system, causing inflammation and irregular bowel movements.

3. Kapha Imbalance: Excess Kapha can lead to sluggish digestion and a feeling of fullness, leading to constipation.

4. Lifestyle Factors:

   • Poor dietary habits (eating dry, processed, or constipating foods)

   • Lack of physical activity

   • Chronic stress or emotional disturbances

   • Ignoring the urge to go to the bathroom

5. Imbalanced Digestion (Agni): Ayurveda believes that Agni (digestive fire) plays a crucial role in digestion. When Agni is weak, food does not get digested properly, leading to the accumulation of Ama (toxins), which causes constipation.

Ayurvedic Principles for Treating Constipation

Ayurvedic treatment for constipation focuses on restoring balance to the digestive system and nourishing the intestines. This is done through a combination of dietary changes, herbal remedies, detoxification (Panchakarma), lifestyle modifications, and natural therapies.

1. Ayurvedic Herbs for Constipation

Several herbs are used in Ayurveda to regulate bowel movements and restore Vata balance.

1.1 Triphala:

Triphala is one of the most widely used Ayurvedic remedies for constipation. It is a blend of three fruits—Amla (Indian Gooseberry), Haritaki, and Bibhitaki—which work together to promote regular bowel movements. Triphala balances Vata and Pitta, improves digestion, and helps detoxify the intestines.

• How to Use: Take 1 teaspoon of Triphala powder with warm water before bed. It acts as a mild laxative and helps in bowel regularity.

1.2 Isabgol (Psyllium Husk):

Isabgol is rich in soluble fiber, which helps in softening stools and promotes bowel regularity. It is particularly useful in Vata-related constipation.

• How to Use: Mix 1-2 teaspoons of Isabgol powder in a glass of warm water and drink it before bed. Ensure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to aid in the movement of the fibers.

1.3 Senna (Cassia angustifolia):

Senna is known for its strong laxative properties and is commonly used in Ayurveda to relieve constipation. It is particularly helpful for relieving constipation associated with Pitta imbalance.

• How to Use: Senna can be consumed as a tea or in the form of tablets. However, it should not be used for prolonged periods as it may cause dependence.

1.4 Ginger (Zingiber officinale):

Ginger is an excellent digestive stimulant in Ayurveda. It improves digestion and promotes the proper movement of food through the intestines.

• How to Use: Fresh ginger can be consumed as a tea or added to meals. A common remedy is to boil a few slices of ginger in water and drink this tea before or after meals.

1.5 Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera):

Ashwagandha helps calm Vata and promotes nervous system relaxation, which can be beneficial for constipation caused by stress or anxiety.

• How to Use: Ashwagandha powder can be taken with warm water or milk before bed.

1.6 Aloe Vera:

Aloe vera has a mild laxative effect and helps soothe the digestive tract. It also helps in detoxifying the body by eliminating accumulated waste (Ama).

• How to Use: Aloe vera juice can be consumed in small quantities (1-2 tablespoons) in the morning. However, it is essential to use it in moderation to avoid diarrhea.

1.7 Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra):

Licorice helps soothe the digestive tract, improves the digestive fire (Agni), and has mild laxative properties.

• How to Use: Licorice powder can be mixed with honey or ghee and consumed. You can also make a licorice tea by boiling the root in water.

2. Ayurvedic Foods to Relieve Constipation

• Warm, Moist Foods: Include foods that are warm, moist, and nourishing to calm Vata. These include soups, stews, khichdi (a dish made from rice and lentils), and porridge (especially made with oats or rice).

• Fiber-Rich Foods: Foods high in fiber help to bulk up stool and improve bowel movements. Include fresh fruits and vegetables such as papaya, prunes, spinach, beets, and sweet potatoes.

• Healthy Fats: Healthy oils like ghee, olive oil, and coconut oil lubricate the intestines and aid in bowel movements. Add a spoonful of ghee to warm foods.

• Cooked and Warm Foods: Avoid cold and raw foods as they can disturb Agni (digestive fire). Prefer cooked foods over salads and cold beverages.

3. Ayurvedic Lifestyle Changes for Constipation

• Regular Routine: Ayurveda stresses the importance of a regular daily routine (Dinacharya) to maintain balance in the body. This includes regular meal times, sleep patterns, and bowel movements.

• Hydration: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is crucial for proper digestion and bowel health. Warm water is particularly beneficial, as it helps in digestion and moves the stool through the intestines.

• Exercise: Physical activity stimulates the digestive system and promotes regular bowel movements. Simple exercises such as walking, yoga, or pranayama (breathing exercises) can be very beneficial.

• Mindful Eating: Eat slowly, chew food well, and avoid overeating. Mindful eating helps improve digestion and reduces the chances of constipation.

• Stress Management: Stress is a major factor in digestive imbalances. Engage in regular stress-relieving practices such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing to help relax the body and calm Vata.

4. Ayurvedic Therapies for Constipation

• Abhyanga (Ayurvedic Massage): Regular oil massage with sesame oil or coconut oil can help improve circulation, relax the muscles of the abdomen, and stimulate bowel movements.

• Shirodhara: This therapy involves the gentle pouring of medicated oil or herbal liquids on the forehead. It is especially helpful if stress or mental tension is a contributing factor to constipation.

• Basti (Medicated Enema): In Panchakarma, Basti is a therapy where medicinal oils or herbal decoctions are introduced into the rectum. This can provide effective relief from constipation, especially when Vata is imbalanced.

• Panchakarma Detox: For chronic constipation, Panchakarma (detoxification treatments) may be recommended to cleanse the colon and balance the doshas. This includes therapies such as Virechana (purgation), Vasti (medicated enema), and Swedana (sudation).

5. General Precautions for Constipation

• Avoid Excessive Caffeine and Alcohol: Both caffeine and alcohol can contribute to dehydration, which can worsen constipation.

• Avoid Processed and Junk Foods: These foods tend to be low in fiber and can aggravate Vata and Pitta, leading to constipation.

• Do Not Ignore the Urge to Go: Always respond to the body’s natural urge to pass stools. Ignoring this urge can lead to further constipation.

• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Being overweight or obese can contribute to digestive issues, including constipation, so it’s important to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Conclusion

In Ayurveda, the treatment of constipation is based on balancing the doshas, improving digestion, and eliminating accumulated Ama (toxins). Herbal remedies, dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, and Ayurvedic therapies work together to treat the root causes of constipation and improve overall digestive health. By incorporating these Ayurvedic principles into your routine, you can achieve long-term relief from constipation and maintain healthy digestion.

As always, it’s important to consult an Ayurvedic practitioner to get personalized recommendations based on your constitution (Prakriti) and the specific imbalances in your body.