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Easy Home Remedies for Constipation Relief

| Modified on Dec 17, 2024
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Apple Cider Vinegar Remedy.

Constipation, a common yet uncomfortable condition, affects many individuals. It's characterized by infrequent bowel movements or difficulty in passing stools. Fortunately, natural remedies offer effective and gentle ways to restore regularity and improve digestive health.

Top Natural Remedies for Constipation

These are proven natural methods to alleviate constipation:

  1. Magnesium: Essential for overall health, magnesium can alleviate constipation. Explore various ways to increase your magnesium intake for better digestive health.
  2. Apple Cider Vinegar: ACV balances body pH and supplements nutrients like magnesium, aiding in regularity. Discover more about ACV for constipation through Earth Clinic reader feedback.
  3. Sea Salt Cleanse: An immediate remedy for constipation, this involves high-quality sea salt and water, ensuring quick results.
  4. High-Fiber Foods: A diet rich in fiber can significantly improve bowel movements. Add whole grains, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and seeds to your meals.
  5. Hydration: Drinking adequate water is essential for softening stools and preventing constipation. Aim for at least eight glasses of water daily, and consider herbal teas for added benefits.
  6. Probiotics: These beneficial bacteria improve gut health and digestion. Include probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables.
  7. Regular Exercise: Physical activity stimulates intestinal movements, aiding in smoother bowel movements. Even light exercises like walking or yoga can be beneficial.
  8. Prunes and Prune Juice: Known for their natural laxative effect, prunes and prune juice can be a quick remedy for constipation.
  9. Herbal Laxatives: Herbs like senna, aloe vera, and cascara are known for their laxative properties. However, use them cautiously and consult a healthcare professional if needed.

Lifestyle Tips for Preventing Constipation

In addition to specific remedies, certain lifestyle changes can prevent constipation:

  • Balanced Diet: Focus on a balanced diet that includes a variety of fiber-rich foods.
  • Regular Exercise: Maintain a regular exercise routine to keep your digestive system active.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, especially water and non-caffeinated beverages.
  • Mindful Eating: Eat slowly and chew your food thoroughly to aid digestion.
  • Stress Management: High stress can impact your digestive system. Engage in stress-reducing activities like meditation, deep breathing, or hobbies.

Understanding Causes of Constipation

Identifying the root causes of constipation can help in choosing the right natural remedy. Common causes include:

  • Inadequate Fiber Intake: Low fiber diets can lead to hard stools.
  • Insufficient Hydration: Not drinking enough water can dry out the stool.
  • Lack of Physical Activity: Sedentary lifestyles contribute to slow bowel movements.
  • Medication Side Effects: Certain medications, like painkillers and antidepressants, can cause constipation.
  • Stress and Anxiety: Emotional well-being directly affects digestive health.

When to Seek Medical Advice

While natural remedies are often effective, consult a healthcare provider if you experience chronic constipation or severe discomfort or if there's a significant change in your bowel habits. This can ensure that any underlying health issues are properly addressed.

Conclusion

Constipation can be effectively managed with natural remedies and lifestyle changes. Emphasizing a fiber-rich diet, staying hydrated, regular exercise and stress management can all contribute to alleviating and preventing constipation. Remember, if symptoms persist, seeking medical advice is important for your overall health and well-being.

Continue exploring below for insights into how natural remedies and supplements have helped others with constipation. Your experiences and trials are valuable - let us know what worked for you!

The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.
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Acidophilus

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Posted by Lydia (Miami, FL) on 12/06/2006
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I have been constipated for the past thirteen years due to meds and my years of suffering from anorexia and especially bulimia. I only eat healthy food and I HAVE tried everthing and wasted a lot of money to help my situation between doctors' visits, medicines and supplements. Lately the thing that is proving to be helpful is acidophilus (in the millions), All brand fiber cereal (I find it delicious) and magnesium (750mg/day) I have accepted mine as a hopeless case; however, this may help somebody out there!

Acupressure

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Posted by Natural in NY (NY) on 03/30/2021
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I did not really Susan's post about acupressure on the arm from 2008 would work for me, but decided to give it a try. When I first pressed on the spot on my left arm, I could feel something in my stomach area. That was encouraging and so I kept switching back and forth for a bit. I still did not think it would actually work. However, within about 10 to 15 minutes from starting, I had the result I was looking for! I highly doubt this was by chance. To be fair, I did lightly massage my abdomen just below my belly button once. However, I really think it was the points on the arms described by Susan. I also was not sure I had the spots right and just kept rubbing in the general area, trying to cover enough ground to get it to work. I guess you don't have to be perfect. Thank you Susan and earthclinic!

Acupressure
Posted by Mary Beth (Pittsburgh) on 02/06/2017
 ★★★★★

Constipation (and probably diarrhea too) better with acupressure

Large Intestine

The poster originally used "sedation" of the large intestine to reduce constipation, but "tonifying" may help with the opposite problem, diarrhea.

Tonifying:

On the right side, press lightly (a nickel's weight worth) on the outer side of the elbow crease (i.e., the thumb side) AND if manageable, also press a "body hand width" at a spot below the kneecap bone.

A body-hand-width for the person-who-posted means about one inch, measuring from the middle of the edge of the palm of the hand to an opposite spot on the non-palm side.

Press these two spots at the same time for one minute.

Then on the left, press on the same points for another minute.

Then do the second set of points:

On the right side, press a point in the hollow side of the thumb side of the wrist crease on the non-palm side of the hand. (This point is between the hand and the lower arm bone.)

At the SAME TIME, press in at the depression that is on the little finger side of the hand, moving up the side of the hand, over a little bump of the wrist bone. I found this spot by starting at the part of the lower arm bone near the hand, then moving upward toward the little finger, by sliding upward, over that bump in the wrist bone. I used two fingers, to make sure I had the right spot. Hold these for thirty seconds.

Do the same again on the left side.

I only had to do this two times on my bladder meridian, to stop being incontinent. It has not been completely foolproof, as my disease has progressed, but mostly it has freed me from the potty substantially.

Sedation:

It is important that I also tell you how to sedate your large intestine. This practice was very useful to relieve my constipation.

Also, if you over-tonify, your meridian/muscle can get too tight, so I had better tell you how to loosen it.

To sedate, on the right side, you'll want to press a point on the right hand -- and, if you are flexible enough, ideally you can also, at the same time, press the other point on your right foot. I can JUST do this: but if it is difficult, do one point at a time, starting with the points on the right, then do the same points on the left.

It really does not matter if you do the right points first, and then the left. But you are supposed to do all the right hand points, at one time, then all the left hand points at one time.

Use your left hand to press a point that seems to be close to the knuckle of your pointing finger, at the bottom of the finger, and on the side of the finger that is closest to the thumb. AT THE SAME TIME, use your right index finger (since it is still NOT doing anything) to press on the point on the side of your foot, just a smidgen down the foot from where the toe meets the foot. Hold this at a "nickel's weight" for one minute.

Then do the left side the same way.

The second set of points is the same as the points for tonifying, copied and pasted from above:

On the right side, press a point in the hollow side of the thumb side of the wrist crease on the non-palm side of the hand. (This point is between the hand and the lower arm bone.)

At the SAME TIME, press in at the depression that is on the little finger side of the hand, moving up the side of the hand, over a little bump of the wrist bone. I found this spot by starting at the part of the lower arm bone near the hand, then moving upward toward the little finger, by sliding upward, over that bump in the wrist bone. I used two fingers, to make sure I had the right spot. Hold these for thirty seconds.

Do the same again on the left side.

This remedy worked for the poster in two days later -- and she has been "loose" ever since!

The poster used the pictures and descriptions from "Touch for Health" by John and Matthew Thie -- and "Energy Medicine" by Donna Eden.

Acupressure
Posted by Susan (Atlanta, Georgia, USA) on 11/27/2008
 ★★★★★

For constipation, I use an acupressure point in the arm. The point is found when you bend the arm - for example, place your right hand on your left shoulder. At the bend of the elbow, use your left hand to locate the acupressure point about halfway between the crease of the bend and the bone. Massage that point for about 15 seconds, then switch to the other arm. Back and forth. I also do this while standing. Usually works within 10 to 15 minutes at most. Also, I have cut out wheat and all gluten grains. I did not think I had a gluten problem but found out that I have that sensitivity.

Replied by Lee
(Durban, South Africa)
03/12/2013

Hi! Could you please explain a bit more clearly where this acupressure point on the arm is?

Replied by Stan
(Las Vegas, Nv)
10/04/2013

I found the accupressure spot you're looking for. When you put your right hand on your left shoulder, use your left hand and there's a hollow spot just above your right elbow. You'll know when you've found it because there's a sharp pain if you do have a constipation problem.

Asif
(London)
04/17/2023
★★★★★

I found that spot and I had instant relief from the pain of constipation as well as bloating. I think the two pressure points from the crease of elbow which is easy to find is all you need to massage and it stops pain.

Replied by Cheri
(South West Tx)
02/13/2016
★★★★★

a million thanks to you for the explanation on where to do the accupressure. people - IT WORKS.

I have a family member w/chronic constipation due to medication and most times things are working as I give flax seed, good yogurt, steel cut oatmeal, etc etc BUT sometimes the elimination is delayed I guess you'd say.

WELL, simply doing this right/left, twice had the results. What a relief to know this and not have to resort to other attempts with the milk of magnesium etc.

Replied by David
(Utah)
05/11/2022

If anyone needs more help finding the area, the acupressure point is called 'Large Intestine 11' or 'LI 11'. Do a search for either of those terms and you can find images and/or videos showing where it is located.

Acupressure
Posted by Donna (Aspen, CO)
★★★★★

Every morning, before you get out of bed -- rub your tummy with your fist, not too hard, gently, but make an impression, only for about 10 seconds. It may take two mornings of rubbing, but you'll never be constipated again.

Replied by Boomer
(Edmonton, Ab)
11/03/2009
★★★★★

Make sure if you rub your stomache that you do it in a clockwise motion. Rubbing counter clockwise can result in increased constipation and can cause problems with your intestines.

Replied by Lisa
(West Plains MO)
04/24/2006
★★★★★

I tried Donna's suggestion on acupressure and it works!!! I rub not only my stomach but where my colon is. Also I found taking 2 tbsp. of molasses morning and night followed by acv in tea and then the acupressure works every time for me. I don't have to sit on the crapper for 15 minutes anymore.

Apple Cider Vinegar, Vitamin C

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Posted by Nita (Mineola, Tx) on 03/04/2020
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For Constipation:

2 Tbs of Bragg apple cider vinegar, 1 packet of Emergent C, half glass of water, every morning for years now. Works.

Apple Juice, Warm

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Posted by Pat (Oakville, Ontario) on 09/21/2013
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I have been feeling very plugged up lately, so much so that my bra was too tight to wear! I read about drinking a warm cup of apple juice and thought, why not? I heated about 6 oz in the microwave and sipped it after dinner. About a half hour later I felt a slight urge to go to the bathroom and with little effort and no discomfort I had a very rewarding bowel movement! I eat a fairly good diet, with lots of fibre but I can be lax in my consumption of water so using apple juice to move more fluids to my lower bowel was perfect! I will try to increase my daily consumption of water but also include warm apple juice too!

Apple Juice, Warm
Posted by Angel (USA) on 07/11/2008
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I was bloated swollen, there was pain in my upper left rib cage, all the way around my back. I went to the ER thinking it was my gallbladder, thank God that it wasn't. I was told that I needed to poop! I was given magnesium citrate..it took almost 2 hours to work and it didn't bring out the beasts that were within me. I called my little brother who insisted that I try some apple juice. I took out a mug and filled it with apple juice and warmed it in the microwave. About an hour and a half later, I was on the free of poop list. It worked wonderfully. Left me feeling sluggish but well worth it. I'll continue to drink a cup of warm apple juice once a week to keep myself regular. I loathe medications, so this natural remedy is what I recommend.

B1 (Thiamine)

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Posted by Elaine (Edmond, Oklahoma) on 09/05/2014
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As many of us with hypothyroid know, constipation is one of the symptoms of the ailment. I am one of those that has suffered for years with hard, rocky stool. Then I read about how if you are deficient in Thiamine or vitamin B-1 it can cause a "miscommunication" between the thyroid and bowels. I began taking 250 mg of B-1 everyday a couple of weeks ago and no more cement factory poops. It just may be coincidence. But, so far sooooo very good. I am actually not dreading to go do number 2. It's worth a try. I just hope my situation remains, eh hem, smooth sailing.

Replied by Elaine
(Edmond, Oklahoma)
10/06/2014

Did a little experiment last week by not taking the vitamin B-1. Yup, the cement factory was back. Took 250 mg of B-1 and was softer by that afternoon! I also take Vitamin D, have for over ten years. Didn't help. The B-1 is what works for me.

Baked Apples

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Posted by Nat (Brooklyn, NY) on 01/18/2022
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For several days in a row, eating a diet of mostly, or only, baked apples can help for cleansing the body and for relieving constipation.

The apples should be eaten with the peel. (Before baking, they can be scrubbed a bit with a food wash or even dish soap, and then rinsed well, to lessen preservatives on the peel, since the peel should be eaten.) The apples, Cortland cooking apples, can be baked with olive oil drizzled onto the apples and also some spices such as nutmeg and a bit of cinnamon, but without added sugar. Since cinnamon can be constipating for some people only a pinch or so should be added per apple.

The apples can be baked at around 425 degrees Fahrenheit, for about an hour and a half or more. If the apples are baked until the inside starts to caramelize and turn brown, the apples will be sweet even though no sugar was added. (Even regular apple sauce can be simmered very slowly for several hours without added water or sugar. If the apples are good quality cooking apples, such as Cortland apples, the applesauce will be sweet.)

In the writings of the psychic, Edgar Cayce, we find reference to an apple diet. That is, eating only apples for three days, prepared any which way, after which one is to sip a quarter of a half cup of (hot) olive oil for body cleansing.

For many people, the Cayce apple diet is a hard program to follow.

A modified, mostly apple diet is easy to follow and satisfying. While such a program may not be as effective as a total apple diet, it is easy to try out.

One should start eating the baked apples in the morning and if in the evening one feels the need for other food one can eat a small amount of light food such as a few spoonful's of small curd cottage cheese and maybe some hot water with blackstrap molasses with some spices, and a bit of milk (a small amount, such as an eighth or a quarter teaspoon, of salt, added to the molasses drink makes it taste better), or one can drink a tea with some honey in it. Throughout the day, if one feels the need, one can also drink molasses with hot water, or coffee, or tea.

Baking Soda

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Posted by winful (Alberta, Canada) on 11/26/2022
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I'm using 1/2-1 tsp baking soda every morning on an empty stomach and wait about an hour before eating. Now, after a lifetime of constipation, I finally have quick relief... Baking soda doesn't raise blood pressure as some believe and it's ok to take every day, in fact, it's beneficial to do so!

Baking Soda
Posted by Nat (Brooklyn, NY) on 12/30/2021
 ★★★★★

It was mentioned somewhere that taking a little (maybe a teaspoon or a bit more) of baking soda (Bicarbonate of Soda) in about an ounce of water (others recommend in a little lemon juice) on an empty stomach, and not eating for a short while after, helps for emptying the bowels.

The baking soda/water remedy should probably not be used regularly, but rather only on an occasional basis.

It is important, generally, to wait for some urge to go before using a laxative or suppository, in order to prevent the natural urge, a vital body function, from disappearing.

Baking Soda
Posted by John (Greenport, New York, Usa) on 09/16/2010
 ★★★★★

For chronic constipation, it helps to drink a glass of water mixed with a teaspoon of pure baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) before bed every night. Be sure it's pure baking soda (no aluminum).

Replied by Kelly
(Seattle)
09/06/2023

Just a quick comment regarding baking soda and aluminum: There's no aluminum in baking soda. It can be found in baking POWDER, but not baking soda. :)

Baking Soda, Borax

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Posted by Andrea C (Cardiff, Wales) on 05/15/2011
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I eat a good diet, of organic produce drink distilled water. no amount of laxatives did n e thing for the constipation caused by my meds cept' made me feel toxic! yesterday i started the bicarb/lemon juice [alkalizing tonic] as sir ted suggested. this morning i got up at 4am as i couldn't sleep drank a half pint of distilled water from a litre wth 1/8 teaspoon bicarb the same amount of of borax dechahydratate mixed together in the same litre. hoorah! talk about colonic irrigation!!! 2 hours later i was queen of the porcerlain throne!!! amazing! the gas waste all came away rapidly with no pain to my hemorrhoids or agonising anal fissures! hope this helps someone else love ANDREA C X X X

Bay Leaf Tea

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Posted by sara (the beaches) on 11/29/2022
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I have recently started drinking a tea...for lack of a better word, of boiling water and bay leaves with lemon juice, I keep it on warm all day in a teapot and sip it all day, I was doing it as an immune boost and wonders never cease. It has relieved my chronic lazy bowel and I now have perfect BMs.


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