While constipation is rarely unsafe, it can cause discomfort and issue when it happens. Defecation differ from individual to person, but the University of Maryland Medical Center explains constipation as when you have less than three bowel movements weekly. Straining during defecation and having harder stools than typical are other signs of constipation. Commercial herbal teas are available that eliminate constipation. Talk with your physician prior to taking in laxative teas.
Causes of Constipation
A number of issues can cause a bout of constipation. For your bowels to move normally, you require enough water and fiber, so dehydration and a decreased fiber intake typically lead to constipation. Absence of exercise and stress can likewise decrease your bowels. Particular conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome and metabolic disorders, can cause constipation. Some medications– pain drugs, anticonvulsants and antacids– can cause constipation.
Senna Tea vs. Constipation
Senna is an FDA-approved, non-prescription herb used to treat constipation, and many herbal laxative teas use it as the primary active ingredient. Senna, which includes active substances called “sennosides,” exerts a stimulant laxative impact. The sennosides aggravate the lining of your intestines, which helps your bowels get moving. Senna is most likely safe for a lot of adults, however prevent using it for longer than two weeks. Its possible side effects include stomach cramps and diarrhea.
Best 6 Teas to Treat Constipation
Herbal teas can be made from a mix of herbs, or a combination of herbs and tea leaves. You should always inspect the components on the label so that you understand what you’re drinking.
These teas are the most frequently used to ease constipation:
- Senna tea serves as a stimulant laxative, which works by promoting the intestinal tracts to move stool along. Senna tea tends to have a bitter taste, so you might want to add honey or some other flavoring making it more tasty.
- Some people use dandelion tea to ease water retention, however it can work as a mild laxative, too.
- Cascara tea can have a strong laxative result. You shouldn’t have more than is recommended. Cascara is readily available in laxative capsules in addition to teas.
- Peppermint tea might help treat and prevent cases of constipation. Peppermint is expected to be helpful for digestive health.
- Green tea also seems to have positive results on digestive health. It has been used to help treat queasiness, diarrhea, and constipation.
- Hot or iced black tea might have a mild adequate laxative effect that it can help avoid constipation, but you can consume it daily without long-lasting health dangers. Adding honey or molasses to your tea might improve its laxative properties.
Dosage
Many teas marketed for their laxative effects include directions that suggest consuming one cup right prior to bedtime. Be sure to read the label and follow the directions thoroughly. Herbal teas, consisting of those that help treat constipation, are offered in supermarket, health food stores, and online.
For a lot of laxative teas, the guidelines advise only one cup each day. Nevertheless, if your constipation continues for more than a few days, you might require a stronger laxative medication. You must visit your doctor if your constipation lasts a week or more.
Herbal Teas to Avoid
Cascara, an herb available in some teas for relieving constipation, contains substances that stimulate your large intestinal tract, which increases motility. The stimulation causes your intestines to contract, which increases the water and electrolyte levels, helping with motion and alleviating constipation. Nevertheless, a number of hazardous adverse impacts have been reported by cascara users, triggering the Food and Drug Administration to deem it risky, reports Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Avoid herbal teas which contain cascara as an active ingredient.
Other Tips
Use herbal teas for cases of mild constipation only and on a short-term basis; avoid using them if you have chronic constipation. Consuming adequate water, engaging in regular physical activity and taking in the correct amount of fiber help to eliminate and avoid constipation. You ought to take in between 20 and 35 grams of fiber every day. Fruits, veggies, oatmeal, oat bran and legumes are good sources of fiber.
