Laxative drugs are a type of drug that is consumed to treat constipation or constipation. In addition to over-the-counter drugs in pharmacies, there are many herbal plants or certain foods that have a laxative effect and are good for treating constipation.
Defecation less than 3 times a week can be a sign of constipation. Constipation occurs because the intestines do not move regularly, so stools or stools tend to be hard and dry and difficult to pass.
Laxatives or laxatives are usually used to treat constipation. This medication works by compacting the stool, increasing the amount of water in the stool, or making the stool softer, making it easier to pass.
Types of Natural Laxative Medicinal Plants
In addition to laxatives, there are several natural laxatives that can be used to treat constipation, including:
1. Psyllium
This herb is a laxative with natural fibers that make up stool. Psyllium It is often used for constipation or chronic constipation and can be combined with other laxatives, both natural and synthetic.
Although it is quite safe to use, some people can experience side effects such as allergies, nausea, stomach pain, and vomiting when using this natural laxative.
2. Cascara Sagrada (buckthorn)
This natural or herbal laxative is derived from tree bark extracts buckthorn. The plant extract can stimulate the movement of the digestive tract, thereby triggering the urge to defecate.
This natural laxative is generally used for the short term because of the risk of side effects such as stomach upset and electrolyte disturbances. If used long term, extract buckthorn can cause impaired liver function.
3. Slippery elm
This herb can treat constipation by making stools softer and stimulating bowel movements. Nevertheless, slippery elm It is not recommended to be used with other drugs or supplements because of the risk of reducing the absorption of these drugs or supplements in the intestines.
In addition, this natural laxative can sometimes cause allergic reactions in some people.
4. Senna
This natural laxative is commonly used to treat constipation and cleanse the colon before undergoing medical procedures. Long-term use with high doses has been reported to cause liver problems.
5. Rhubarb (taro tree trunk)
This herbal plant has a laxative and antidiarrheal effect due to the tannin content in it. However, the rhubarb plant can only be used in the short term.
6. Ginger
Spices that are widely found in Indonesia are known to have high antioxidant content. Not only that, ginger is also good for digestion and overcoming constipation. To use it as a natural laxative, you can consume ginger in the form of warm ginger tea.
Many of these herbs are sold in the form of tea. This laxative tea is made from a combination of herbs and tea leaves. This kind of herbal tea is recommended to be consumed one cup per day and only drunk before going to bed.
When you want to use it, be sure to read the product label carefully and follow the instructions for use.
Laxative Foods
In addition to herbal laxative products, there are many foods that can help with constipation. These foods are generally foods that contain a lot of fiber, such as:
Fruits
Fruit is a source of fiber, water, and natural vitamins and minerals that are good for digestion. There are several kinds of fruit that are good for digestion, including apples, pears, kiwi, and guava. You can consume these fruits directly or processed into juice.
Vegetables
Vegetables are also a good source of fiber to treat constipation. There are many types of vegetables that can be consumed to prevent and treat constipation, namely spinach, broccoli, carrots, and cabbage. These vegetables can make stools denser and easier to pass during bowel movements.
Nuts
Other good sources of fiber to treat constipation are whole grains and legumes, such as flaxseeds (chia seeds), peanuts, soybeans, and kidney beans.
However, some types of nuts and seeds can cause flatulence. Therefore, you should not eat too many nuts or seeds if you want to use them as a natural laxative.
If some of these natural laxatives don't work for your constipation or if constipation still recurs, it's best to check with your doctor. This is important so that the doctor can determine the cause of your constipation and determine the appropriate treatment for constipation.