How to cure constipation in Ayurveda? Know about Ayurvedic remedy for constipation in adults, in babies and during pregnancy. This post outlines the treatment, remedy and medicine for constipation in Ayurveda.
Constipation in Ayurveda
Vata Dosha is associated with air and space and it governs all kinds of movement in the human mind and body. Be it blood flow, excretion of waste products of the human body, breathing, respiratory movements, cellular movements and motor movement of the brain. It is important to note that since Pitta and Kapha cannot move without Vata, it (Vata) is considered the most important of all the three Ayurvedic Dosha in the human body.
The Vata Dosha is further divided into 5 kinds and two of them (Samana Vata and Apana Vata) are directly responsible for food and waste and digestive movements in the body.
- Samana Vata governs the movement of food throughout the human digestive system. An imbalance of Samana Vata can cause problems in digestion, gas and intestinal cramps.
- Apana Vata governs elimination of all kinds of waste from the human body. An imbalance in Apana Vata can cause diarrhea, constipation, and gas.
Constipation is a Vata Dosha disorder and is also known as Vibandh in Ayurveda. Constipation exhibits one of all of the following symptoms:
- Straining or pain during bowel movement
- Unable to have a free bowel movement
- Incomplete bowel movement
Remedies for Constipation
Constipation in Ayurveda is associated with an incorrect lifestyle and eating habits. And since constipation is a Vata Dosha disorder, remedies and foods which can pacify Vata Dosha can be very effective.
Some of the general remedies of constipation are:
- Drink lots of warm water and all kinds of warm herbal beverages per day. Since Vata Dosha is cold, drinking warm and hot beverages can balance the Dosha. Also note that try to consume water at least 20 minutes before or after eating the food.
- Use excess oil or ghee in the diet. People suffering from constipation should consume more ghee or use excess oil which helps to lubricate the bowel movement.
- Eat ripe fruits with high hydrating and fibrous quality. Ripe bananas, apples (peeled), raisins, grapes, peaches and melons are best to eat during constipation.
- Drink plenty of fresh fruit juices to lubricate and pacify the hardness and heat of Vata Dosha.
- Consume milk with ghee or eat flax seeds before bed.
Ayurvedic Herbs for Constipation
Several Ayurvedic herbs can pacify Vata Dosha and get you relief from constipation. Here are three Ayurvedic herbs which can be used to cure Constipation.
1. Triphala
Triphala is regarded as the best ayurvedic remedy for constipation. Triphala is a powerful laxative made of three Ayurvedic herbs which are known to cure constipation. Triphala is made of Amalaki (Amla), Haritaki (Harad) and Bibhitaki (Baheda) and all of these herbs are known to cure constipation – Amalaki cures Pitta Dosha, Bibhitaki cures Kapha Dosha and Haritaki cures Vata Dosha.
- Harad is known to be a potent laxative, an astringent and lubricant which helps in loosening the stools.
- Amla is a wonderful laxative with cooling properties. It helps cool the inner stomach and intestine linings and reduces inflammation and burning sensation.
- Bibhitaki is another great natural laxative with a high amount of dietary fibres.
Triphala is best consumed as powder or churna. The best time to take Triphala is just before bed. About 30-40 mins before bed, take Triphala churna with a glass of warm water. If you don’t like the taste of Triphala, you can add a few drops of honey.
2. Psyllium
Psyllium (commonly known as Psyllium Husk or Isabgol) is a powerful laxative which is used to cure constipation or diarrhea. It is an effective binding agent which absorbs water and becomes a viscous compound.It has an excellent water solubility feature which resists digestion in the small intestine in the human body. As a laxative, Psyllium is very effective in constipation. It increases stool size and moisture of stool.
It is advised to take 2 teaspoons of Psyllium Husk in a glass of warm water daily for 3-5 days. The Psyllium Husk can also be soaked in warm milk. It must be taken 15-20 mnts before one goes to sleep.
3. Flaxseed
Flaxseed or Linseed is another herb which can be effective in constipation. It is a great source of fiber, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids. When a person suffering from constipation consumes Flaxseed (before sleep), it mixes with water and becomes a gel which lubricates and soothes the large intestine and induces comfortable bowel movement. Usually 1 tablespoon of Flaxseed is consumed two to three times a day, followed by 2 cups of water.
Other Ayurvedic medicines for constipation are Avipattikara Choorna, Abhayarishta, Trivrit Lehyam, Dantyarishta, Gandharvahastadi Kashaya, Anthrakutharam Gulika, Pancha Sakara Churna, Kayam Churna and Phala Varti.
If you are undergoing Ayurvedic treatment for constipation, you must follow a regular routine and don’t skip meals. Also avoid stressful work and practice yoga and pranayam.