21 Simple And Proven Constipation Home Remedies (That Actually Work!)

I think you will agree with me when I say that every single person on this planet has, at some point, suffered from the symptoms of constipation and irregular bowel movement.

Isn’t it? Even sometimes, the home remedies for constipation fall short as a method of treatment.

Well, if statistics are to be considered, it is seen that around 60% of people globally suffer from chronic constipation symptoms and the painful side effects that accompany it. So, with more than half the world’s population suffering from a similar condition, it is mandatory to get hold of actual remedies that actually work for the condition.

In this article, we are going to discuss and share the most effective list of remedies for constipation that will help alleviate the problem and provide you with the relief that you have been looking for.

1. 1. What is Constipation?
   2. Different Types of Constipation?
   3. How to Get Rid of Constipation?
   4. Home Remedies for Constipation
   5. How to Control Constipation?
   6. What Causes Constipation?
   7. What are the Symptoms of Constipation?
   8. Side Effects of Constipation?
   9. What Foods to Avoid For Constipation?
   10. When to See a Doctor for Constipation?

What is Constipation?

Constipation is the condition in which a person experiences irregular bowel movement which results in painful defecation that leaves behind tear in the anal opening. If the situations are worse, there are chances that the normal interval between the regulated bowel movement stretches on to more than normal.

Majority of the time, the person suffering only get to defecate thrice or at most four times a week which is definitely a lot irregular than what one should normally have. There can be several reasons for constipation but it is always best to first get it examined via physical examination and then proceed with the medication and other processes.

Different Types of Constipation

If you were not aware before, constipation is just an umbrella term to explain the various sub-categories that fall underneath it. There are a number of variants that are categorised based on the severity of the condition.

There are primarily two categories of constipation:

• Primary constipation
• Secondary constipation

Primary Constipation

Primary constipation, otherwise known as functional constipation can be further sub-divided into different categories.

Slow Transit Constipation: this is the type of primary constipation in which the entire gut motility of an individual drastically decreases owing to which the transit time for the food to travel down the GI tract is increased as well. While, this may ensure proper digestion and absorption of food, it definitely takes a toll on the bowel movements of an individual.

Pelvic Floor Dysfunction: this is the type of primary constipation in which the improper coordination of the muscular contractions around the pelvic floor results in irregular anal contractions and relaxations which ends up resulting in the inadequate expulsion of the stool. A common symptom of this variant of constipation includes painful defecation and discomfort in the rectal region.

Normal Transit Constipation: this is the type of primary constipation in which an individual might have regular transit time and regular bowels but would still feel like their body is constipated because of the difficult excretion of the stool out of the body. This includes signs of bloating, discomfort in the abdominal region etc.

Secondary Constipation

Now that we have covered the course of primary constipation which courses around the inability of the GI tract functions and associated signs and symptoms, the secondary constipation is definitely a bit different.

There may be conditions of constipation owing to several metabolic shortcomings and disturbances much like that of hypothyroidism or even neurological problems like Parkinson’s disease and spinal cord injuries. These kinds of conditions also contribute to the reasons for constipation.

How to Get Rid of Constipation?

Constipation can be a very taxing condition in a number of individuals and even though the list of remedies for constipation is never ending, there are still a number of ways that one can actually get rid of it for good and treat constipation.

Some of the common and effective cure for constipation includes:

• Healthy diet that includes more dietary fibers
• Exercise helps increase metabolism
• Cut down on alcohol
• Rely on laxatives, if the situation gets out of hand

Home Remedies for Constipation

Constipation is not a matter of how often you go see a doctor; it is a condition that can easily be handled with home remedies if the same is administered carefully and on regular intervals. If you have been fretting over the best remedies for constipation, we have got your back.

Scroll down to know more about the various constipation home remedies that actually work wonders.

1. 1. Apple Cider Vinegar
   2. Baking Soda
   3. Blackstrap Molasses
   4. Epsom Salt
   5. Lactulose
   6. Ginger
   7. Garlic
   8. Lemon Water
   9. Gripe Water
   10. Chocolate
   11. Coffee
   12. Vitamin C
   13. Dates
   14. Jeera Water
   15. Cascara Sagrada
   16. Pineapple
   17. Mango
   18. Bananas
   19. Raisins
   20. Oranges
   21. Berries

1. Apple Cider Vinegar for Constiption

Apple cider vinegar is rich in natural laxative properties which are what promotes regular bowel movement. It is also rich in pectin which helps in the overall digestion of the ingested food.

Things You Will Need

• 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
• 1 glass of water

Process Involved

1. Mix one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to one glass of water
2. Drink this first thing in the morning

Do this every morning for improved metabolism and functioning

2. Baking Soda for Constipation

Baking soda helps in alkalising the excess production of stomach acid and helps in getting rid of the symptoms of indigestion which is often the reason for situational constipation.

Things You Will Need

• 1/4th tablespoon of baking soda
• Glass of water

Process Involved

1. Mix the baking soda to the glass of water
2. Drink this to alleviate constipation

Caution: As baking soda tends to produce carbon dioxide on reaction with the stomach acids, it is not a very favoured long-term cure for constipation. It is always best to stick to other natural remedy for constipation.

3. Blackstrap Molasses for Constipation

Blackstrap molasses are normally processed three times which makes it loaded with nutritious minerals and vitamins. It is specifically rich in magnesium which is what aids to help cure the constipation symptoms readily.

Things You Will Need

• 1 tablespoon of blackstrap molasses

Process Involved

1. Scoop out 1 tablespoon of blackstrap molasses
2. Eat this before bed at night

This can be done every night for noticeable results.

4. Epsom Salt Bath for Constipation

Epsom salt is rich in magnesium which has amazing benefits for the treatment of constipation. The magnesium soaks in the skin from the bath and helps relieve the muscles around the GI tract and abdomen to provide relief for constipation.

Things You Will Need

• 2 cups of Epsom salt
• A bath full of water

Process Involved

1. Fill your bathtub with water
2. Add the two cups of Epsom salt in it and soak your body in it for 15-20 minutes

You can do this every other day for amazing results.

5. Lactulose Can Treat Constipation

Lactulose is an artificially made synthetic sugar, which when consumed, travels down to the large intestine and breaks down there. It draws in water to the large intestine, thereby softening the stool and ensuring less painful defecation.

Things You Will Need

• Prescribed dosage of lactulose

Process involved

1. The dosage of lactulose for kids should be consulted with the doctor
2. The dosage for adults vary from 1-2 tablespoons

Once per day is more than enough to cure constipation symptoms.

6. Ginger for Constipation

Ginger is believed to have amazing warming properties on the body. It helps in alleviating the process of digestion and also acts as a mild laxative that helps in regularising the bowel movement. Check more Ginger health benefits.

Things You Will Need

• Ginger teabag
• Saucepan of water

Process Involved

1. Heat a saucepan of water and bring it to a boil
2. Steep the ginger tea bag in it for 10 minutes
3. Consume this warm for constipation cure

7. Garlic For Constipation

Garlic, firstly, helps a lot with the digestion of the ingested food. Not just that, it also stimulates the movement of the intestinal walls in the body which aids in proper bowel movement.

Things You Will Need

• Cloves of raw garlic

Process Involved

1. Peel some raw garlic cloves
2. Chew on them directly without adding anything else with it

Eating raw garlic every morning can help treat constipation.

[Also Read: Amazing Health Benefits of Garlic]

8. Lemon Water for Constipation Relief

The water helps in lubrication of the forming stool and the acidity of the lemon juice aids in the proper breakdown of the food and aids in digestion. Together, they aid in constipation cure and help make the bowel movements regular. Drink this concoction every morning. Read More Benefits of Drinking Lemon Water in Morning.

Things You Will Need

• Juice of half a lemon
• A glass of warm water
• Honey (if required)

Process Involved

1. Add the freshly squeezed juice of a lemon to the glass of warm water
2. Mix in a tablespoon of honey if need be
3. Drink this every day in the morning in empty stomach

9. Gripe Water for Constipation

Gripe water has mild laxative properties along with soothing ones too. It helps in ensuring a softer stool along with better digestion which is exactly what helps in alleviating the constipation symptoms. Drink it whenever necessary.

Things You Will Need

• Over the counter gripe water

Process Involved

1. Administering prescribed dosage of gripe water

10. Chocolate is a Remedy for Constipation

Dark chocolate is loaded with magnesium which helps in relaxing the muscles of the GI tract, thus aiding in proper digestion and easy defecation as well.

Things You Will Need

• Few pieces of dark chocolate

Process involved

1. Eat a few pieces of the dark chocolate on a daily basis

Eating two to three pieces of dark chocolate daily can help treat constipation

11. Coffee Can Get Relief from Constipation

Coffee is rich in natural laxative properties which aids in a proper cure for constipation. It helps in stimulating the bowel movement as well. But, it also had dehydrating properties which is why it is best to stay wary of the amount you are consuming a never overdo it.

Things You Will Need

• 2-3 cups of brewed coffee

Process Involved

1. Drink 2-3 cups of coffee throughout the day

Make sure to keep the count of cups in check. It is better to not cross the 2-3 cups.

12. Vitamin C for Treating Constipation

Vitamin C is rich in laxative properties which are what acts as an amazing constipation remedy. Not just that, these fruits are somewhat rich in dietary fibers as well which provides with natural constipation relief.

Things You Will Need

• Food items rich in Vitamin C

Process Involved

1. Increase the intake of citrus fruits in your diet

Ensure to at least eat one citrus fruit every day for promising results.

13. Dates for Constipation

Dry fruits are rich in fibers and amazing nutrition which is what aids in relieving the signs of constipation. It aids in the process of digestion as well which further ensures regular bowel movements.

Things You Will Need

• Dates (as per requirement)

Process involved

1. Munch on dates as a snack, two or three, once in a while.

14. Jeera Water for Constipation Relief

Water acts as a natural softener and laxative for relieving the signs and symptoms of constipation. The cumin seeds help a lot with the digestion which, in turn, adds to the constipation treatment.

Things You Will Need

1. 1 tablespoon of jeera (cumin seeds)
2. A saucepan filled with water

Process involved

• Boil one tablespoon of jeera in a saucepan of water
• Let the concoction sit for a while
• Strain the liquid and drink it

Drink this liquid every day empty stomach in the morning.

15. Cascara Sagrada for Treating Constipation

Cascara Sagrada is a natural laxative which aids in ensuring regular bowel movements. It is also rich in fiber content which adds to the treatment of the constipation symptoms.

Things you will need

• Cascara Sagrada

Process involved

1. As per the prescribed dosage

How often?

It is always best to consider the safety guidelines before jumping straight into using this remedy for constipation because much like a number of other remedies, even this one comes with its fair share of side effects.

Fruits for Constipation

Fruits are one of the best sources of healthy dietary fibers which are what makes it one of the best remedies for constipation as well. The designated consumption of fruits aid in ensuring proper digestion and also prevents you from over-eating and helps combat your hunger.

Some of the fruits that work as an amazing cure for constipation include:

16. Pineapple Help Constipation Relief

Pineapple has an amazing effect for constipation relief, primarily because it helps in providing the body with both fluid and fiber at the same time which is what helps in making the process of defecation a lot easier and less painful.

Pineapple also contains a compound called bromelain which is very effective in regularising the bowel movements in an individual suffering from constipation. Read More Benefits of Pineapple Juice

Directions for Consumption

1. Either drink a glass of pineapple juice every morning with breakfast
2. Much on cubed pineapple pieces as a snack once or twice a day

17. Mango Good for Constipation

Ripened mango is rich in a number of polyphenols and fibers altogether which aid in relieving the irregularity in the bowel movement. Not just that, it also helps in the gut movement for a better digestion of the ingested food.

Directions for Consumption

• Eat fresh cut mangoes as a snack every day (avoid if you are a diabetic patient).
• Add mangoes to smoothies and salads too to eat it with a bit of a twist and not the mainstream way.

18. Bananas Good for Constipation

Bananas have a very confusing effect on the constipation treatment. While it is believed that unripe bananas promote constipation, ripened bananas help keep the symptoms of constipation at bay. It helps soften the stool and reduces the pain that often accompanies constipation.

Side Note: If you are eating bananas for constipation relief, make sure to eat the completely ripened ones because the unripe bananas are a cause of constipation because of the insoluble fiber present in it.

Directions for Consumption

1. Eat one or two medium sized ripe banana
2. You can even add bananas in smoothies and drink them for constipation relief

19. Raisins for Constipation

Raisins are an amazing source of dietary fibers which help regulating the bowel movement in an individual. They also aid in proper digestion of the ingested food that further aids as one of the best constipation home remedies.

Directions for Consumption

1. Snack on a handful of raisins during the breakfast
2. If you are not a fan of eating just raisins, switch to breads that are baked with raisins inside

20. Oranges Juice for Constipation Relief

Oranges are rich in amazing Vitamin C which has mild laxative properties in it. Not just that, the mild acidity from the oranges also helps in the breakdown of the food for proper digestion of it.

Direction for Consumption

1. Eat one or two whole oranges, either with your breakfast or as a normal snack throughout the day
2. Drink freshly squeezed orange juice with your breakfast

21. Berries for Constipation Treatment

Much like most of the fruits, even berries are loaded with good dietary fibres which help in the proper digestion of the ingested food. Not just that, it even helps in softening the stool for easier and less painful defecation.

Directions for Consumption

• Berries can be eaten as a snack any time throughout the day. Make sure to not gorge on them right after a meal and keep a fair amount of time interval in between them.
• Incorporate berries in your smoothies and eat them as a part of your salad.

How to Control Constipation?

Constipation is the kind of ailment or condition that you get because of a number of conditions, primarily because of proper food habit or diet chart. It is necessary to maintain a healthy lifestyle to be able to maintain the condition of constipation.

In order for you to have a comprehensive idea about the ways to acquire natural constipation relief, we have mentioned the best ways to control constipation and that too, in a much healthier way.

• Include more water in your diet. This helps in keeping the body hydrated and helps in ensuring that your stool doesn’t get hardened and can easily be excreted out.
• Eat more fiber in your day to day consumption. It is always best to opt for the soluble fibers because they are digested easily.
• Day to day work out contributes to the overall health of an individual and helps ensure the well being of an individual. It helps to improve gut function as well.
• Opt for a low FODMAP diet if you suffer from chronic constipation. These include the diet which primarily doesn’t help contribute to the irregular bowel syndrome and helps provide relief for constipation.
• If you are pondering on constipation home remedy for adults, probiotic drinks are an amazing way to include good bacteria in your gut. This helps in proper digestion that, in turn, aid to treat constipation.
• Avoiding dairy is possibly one of the best options if you are consistently suffering from constipation.

What Causes Constipation?

Now that we have almost skirted our way through the various topics of discussion related to constipation and constipation treatment, it is best to focus on the causes that primarily are responsible for causing this issue.

Some of the common causes of constipation include:

• Lack of water in the body
• Minimal intake of dietary fiber
• Not being active physically
• Stress and anxiety
• Excessive consumption of laxatives more than the required levels
• Eating disorders
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Pregnancy, especially the early stages of it
• Hypothyroidism
• Colon cancer

What are the Symptoms of Constipation?

Constipation is often characterised by a number of symptoms which is what you need to be aware of in order to opt for the remedies that help cure it. If you are thinking to treat constipation, you need to be rest assured that the symptoms align with what you think is constipation because, temporary hardening of stool and improper defecation for a day doesn’t necessary constitute as the reasons for constipation.

In order to throw some light on the situation, we have amalgamated the top symptoms of constipation for you to glance through.

• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Defecating thrice or less in a week
• Lumpy, hard and dry stools
• Feeling of blockage in the rectum
• Residual in the rectum
• Physical aid in the emptying of the stomach, like that of using hands and putting pressure on the abdomen

Side Effects of Constipation

Constipation might not seem like a very alarming problem but the sustained presence of it without any kind of treatment for the same results in side effects that are not just short termed but that affect one’s health for the long haul.

If you have been avoiding opting for any cure for constipation, it is high time that you rethink the decisions and opt for the natural constipation relief treatments.

Some of the common side effects of constipation include:

• Hemorrhoids
• Feeling of fullness all the time
• Abdominal uneasiness
• Bad breath
• Headaches
• Anal fissures
• Faecal incontinence
• Fatigue

The occurrence of nausea is often connected with constipation, if the person suffers from it. It has been seen that it is not particularly constipation that causes nausea but the other primary causes behind it that trail along the inception of nausea too.

What Foods to Avoid for Constipation?

Diet plays a very crucial role in the recurrence and inception of constipation. If you have an irregular diet with constipation inducing foods in it, there are chances that your constipation treatments are going to fail and be completely futile.

There are a number of foods that can induce constipation and it is thus best to stay wary of such food items to have a healthier well being.

Some of the common foods to avoid for constipation include:

• Unripe bananas
• Alcohol
• Gluten rich food items
• Processed grains
• Dairy and dairy products
• Red meat
• Fast food or greasy food

Many often tend to ponder on the fact whether or not eggs cause constipation. And to answer the question, yes, they do. Since they are high in fat and protein and low in fibre content, consumption of hard boiled eggs can contribute to the symptoms of constipation.

When to See a Doctor for Constipation?

Constipation is not a condition that requires or demands doctor attention right away but it is always best to ensure that you opt for medical help if the situation gets out of hand. If you start to witness the side effects of constipation as mentioned in the article in a prior section, it is best to go see a doctor for constipation cure.

• There are instances when constipation has been deduced to be an outcome of awful diseases like that of colon cancer. So, if you have a lingering question of whether or not constipation can be an after effect or side effect of any form of cancer, the answer is a definite yes. Colon cancer is one of the most common reasons for constipation.
• Not just that, even pregnant women may witness signs of constipation during the initial days of pregnancy. If you feel signs of constipation creeping in right out of nowhere and hitting you suddenly, it is best to take a pregnancy test and see a gynaecologist, if necessary.

Now, when it comes to which doctor to see, it is always suggested to opt for a gastroenterologist to treat constipation. Whatever the preceding causes are, it is a GI specialist who will be able to detect any further problems (if there are any).

Constipation is often a very painful experience for a number of people suffering from it. In order to acquire relief for constipation, it is often advised to either opt for the common natural remedies or see a doctor. We definitely hope that these mentioned remedies in this article will come in handy for you.