Constipation affects nearly everyone at some time in their lives. It is one of the most common digestive disorders. Some people only experience constipation occasionally, while others have it on a more chronic basis.
Takeaways:
- Senna is an edible woody plant that causes a stimulatory laxative effect in the colon which increases bowel movements. Take only short-term to avoid serious side effects.
- Peppermint tea helps relax intestinal smooth muscles and may contribute to easier bowel movements and less intestinal discomfort.
- Ginger root is closely related to the turmeric plant and contains two main bioactive compounds – gingerols and shogaols. These phytochemicals help to reduce inflammation and improve gastric and colonic motility, nausea and vomiting.
- Senna and other stimulant laxatives may become habit-forming so short-term use only is recommended.
- Teas work quickly anywhere from 30 minutes to 10 hours depending on the type.
- The majority of constipation issues can be prevented with adequate hydration, fiber intake, activity and not ignoring the urge to go.
The digestive tract, which runs from the mouth to anus, is responsible for digestion, absorption and transportation of nutrients. This organ is vital to our health, growth and development. However, its function can be compromised by a number of factors, including stress, low water intake and low fiber consumption, as well as sedentary living.
Constipation is caused by a buildup of material in the colon. This last part of your intestines cannot be cleared efficiently or frequently. Constipation can cause pain, discomfort and other symptoms such as bloating, gas or cramping. Laxatives in tea form, or any other form, can be an effective home remedy.
Constipation is a common condition.
Constipation can be characterized by any or all of the following symptoms:
- Fewer than three bowel movements per week
- The act of squeezing or pressing to escape.
- Dry, hard stools are not acceptable for a stoma.
- Feeling like there is a blockage within your rectum.
- Feeling that you cannot completely empty your colon.
What is Laxative Tea?
Laxative teas are teas made with herbs that have laxative properties. The combination of these herbs and the hot water that is used to make the tea helps to promote regular bowel movements.
What teas are used to treat constipation?
Some teas are known to have laxative effects, including senna (senna), peppermint and ginger.
Senna Tea
Alexandrina , a woody bush with edible leaves and fruit that produces a laxative stimulant effect when consumed. Senna, an FDA approved over-the counter laxative, is used to treat constipation for a short time or as a bowel preparation before surgery or colonoscopy. Senna stimulates nerves and the colon to contract, which helps produce bowel movement. One randomized-controlled trial (STIMULAX trial) found that colorectal surgery patients receiving both stimulant (including senna) and osmotic laxatives recovered gastrointestinal function earlier with less post-surgery complications compared to those with placebo.
Peppermint Tea
Peppermint Tea is caffeine-free and contains no stimulants. Peppermint tea is rich in L-menthol, and other phytochemicals which help relax the nervous system. It may even be more effective than antidepressants and fiber for people with IBS .
Peppermint tea is not well researched. However, it has been reported that peppermint essential oil can relax the digestive muscles, reducing bloating and gas, as well as spasms, pain, and. This may be particularly helpful for people with IBS.
Ginger Root Tea
The tea made from Ginger root is caffeine-free and stimulant free. It comes from a plant that is closely related to Turmeric. Ginger tea can also be used to treat nausea caused by constipation or slow intestinal motility. In controlled, randomised trials, 1.0-2.0 grams of ginger per day reduced nausea and vomiting and improved gastric function compared to placebo.
Are laxative teas safe? Can I drink it daily?
Senna is FDA-approved for short-term constipation relief. Senna can cause discoloration in colorectal tissues, which increases the risk of colorectal carcinoma when used for long periods or at high dosages. Senna has also been reported as a laxative that is abused (along with other stimulant laxatives such as dulcolax and cascara Sagrada) and can lead to Laxative Dependence, as the colon loses its natural nerve and muscular response.
Although there have been no reported long-term side effects of ginger or peppermint tea, peppermint may cause a temporary increase in heartburn in some individuals.
How quickly do laxative teas work?
The type of tea used and the desired result will determine how quickly the tea will work.
- Ginger Tea – works in between 30 minutes and 2 hours to relieve nausea.
- Peppermint Tea Though no research has been done to specify the timing, it is likely that peppermint falls between ginger and senna timelines.
- Senna Tea usually causes a bowel motion within six to ten hours, so it’s often recommended that you drink this tea before going to bed.
What can I do to prevent constipation?
Drink half of your body weight in fluid ounces to help your colon work properly. Hydration is important in preventing constipation. You should also eat the recommended amount (about 14g of fiber per 1000 calories), move your body every day to avoid a sedentary life, and don’t ignore the urge to urinate when you feel it. Waiting too long can make it more difficult for you to pass your stool.
Resources
- NIH. A Novel Delivery System of Peppermint Oil Is an Effective Therapy for Irritable Bowel Syndrome Symptoms.
- NIH. Impact of STIMUlant and osmotic LAXatives (STIMULAX trial) on gastrointestinal recovery after colorectal surgery: randomized clinical trial.
- Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology. Peppermint Oil for the Treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
- HINDAWI. Multiple Mechanisms of Flaxseed: Effectiveness in Inflammatory Bowel Disease.
