7 Natural Remedies to Help Relieve Constipation
Discover seven effective natural remedies to manage constipation and promote healthy digestion comfortably and safely.
Warm water
High-fiber foods
Prunes or prune juice
Olive or flaxseed oil
Physical activity
Herbal teas
Probiotics
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Constipation is one of the most common digestive problems — and one of the most uncomfortable. Whether it’s caused by stress, poor diet, low fiber intake, dehydration, or lack of movement, constipation can make daily life difficult and affect your overall well-being.
The good news? You don’t always need medication. Many gentle, natural remedies can effectively stimulate digestion, soften stool, and restore regularity. Here are seven proven, natural remedies to relieve constipation safely and comfortably.
1. Drink Warm Water First Thing in the Morning
Hydration is essential for bowel movement. Drinking a glass of warm water as soon as you wake up stimulates the digestive system and kickstarts intestinal contractions.
Benefits of warm water:
– Softens stool naturally
– Helps rehydrate after sleep
– Encourages bowel movement within hours
– Starts digestion gently
Add lemon for extra digestive support if desired.
2. Increase Your Fiber Intake — Especially Soluble Fiber
Fiber adds bulk to stool and helps it move more easily through the intestines. Most people don’t get enough fiber daily, which is a major cause of constipation.
High-fiber foods include:
– Oats
– Apples
– Berries
– Beans and lentils
– Chia seeds
– Vegetables and whole grains
Aim for 25–30 grams of fiber a day, but increase it gradually to avoid bloating.
3. Drink Prune Juice or Eat Dried Prunes
Prunes are one of the most effective natural laxatives thanks to their high fiber content and natural sorbitol — a sugar alcohol that draws water into the intestines.
Benefits:
– Softens stool
– Stimulates movement
– Provides quick relief
– Adds antioxidants and vitamins
A small serving (3–4 prunes or a half cup of prune juice) is usually enough to help.
4. Use Olive Oil or Flaxseed Oil to Lubricate the Digestive Tract
Healthy oils act as natural lubricants, helping stool move more easily through the colon.
How to use them:
– Take 1 tablespoon of olive oil in the morning
– Add flaxseed oil to salads or smoothies
– Avoid heating flaxseed oil (use it raw)
These oils also support gut health and reduce inflammation.
5. Move Your Body — Even Light Exercise Helps
Movement stimulates the muscles in your digestive tract, encouraging bowel activity. Sitting for long periods slows digestion dramatically.
Effective forms of movement include:
– Walking
– Light jogging
– Stretching or yoga
– Cycling
– Simple home workouts
Even a 10-minute walk after meals can improve regularity.
6. Try Natural Herbal Teas
Certain herbs have gentle laxative properties and can help relax the digestive system.
Best herbal teas for constipation relief:
– Senna (short-term use only)
– Ginger tea
– Peppermint tea
– Fennel tea
– Chamomile tea
Drink a warm cup before bed or after meals.
7. Add Probiotics to Support Gut Balance
Probiotics help balance the healthy bacteria in your gut, which improves digestion and stool consistency.
Probiotic-rich foods include:
– Yogurt
– Kefir
– Sauerkraut
– Kimchi
– Kombucha
You can also use supplements, but food sources are gentler and easier on the stomach.
Final Thoughts
Constipation is uncomfortable, but it’s usually manageable with simple, natural remedies. Drinking warm water, increasing fiber, using prunes, adding healthy oils, moving regularly, drinking herbal teas, and supporting gut bacteria with probiotics can all promote healthier, more regular bowel movements.
If constipation becomes chronic or severe, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional — but for mild cases, these natural solutions are often enough to restore comfort and balance.