Causes of Constipation (Hetu):
1. Dietary factors
Eating at irregular times
Consuming fatty or spicy food
Decreased fibre content in regular meals
Eating too cold or rough foods
Drinking lots of tea, coffee or other caffeine drinks
Not having sufficient amounts of water in a day
2. Environmental and behavioural factors
Suppression of the urges
Improper way of sexual intercourse
Excessive consumption of alcohol and tobacco-related products
Regular night-outs or sleeping very late in the nights
Ageing
Psychological anger or depression
Feelings of guilt and fear
3. Other factors
Gastrointestinal diseases, such as irritable bowel syndrome
Neurological diseases, such as multiple sclerosis
Endocrinal disorders, such as hypothyroidism, diabetes mellitus
Pregnancy
Obesity
Prolonged use of drugs such as opiates, calcium and iron supplements
Symptoms of Constipation (Rupa):
The symptoms of constipation according to the Ayurvedic perspective include the following:
Abnormal taste in mouth
Excessive salivation
Difficult in the elimination of stool
Excess abdominal bloating, cramps and uneasiness
Bright red rectal bleeding in case of acute constipation
Nausea and Vomiting
Weight loss
Headache and dizziness
Ayurvedic therapy for Constipation:
The main aim of treatment is to reduce the aggravated vata dosha and its symptoms such as hard stools and slow bowel movements.
Many herbal remedies are available for treating constipation. Most of these herbs increase the peristaltic movements of the intestine. Peristalsis refers to the wave like contractions of the bowel muscles which are responsible for propelling the food forwards. These may include the following herbs:
Trivrit (Indian Jalap or Turpeth)
It has a potent laxative activity and causes a dose-dependent increase in intestinal motility, hence promoting bowel movements and preventing constipation.
Amla (Indian gooseberry)
In addition to many health beneficial components, Amla also contains a high amount of fiber, which promotes regular bowel movements.
Haritaki
Haritaki is known for its Anulomana properties, which means promoting evacuation of bowels. It helps in proper absorption of water and other liquids in undigested material, and also stimulates the enteric nervous system to promote intestinal motility.
Nilini (True indigo)
The root and stem of this medicinal plant have laxative properties, hence promoting bowel movements and preventing constipation.
Vacha (Sweet flag)
Vacha is a highly valued medicinal plant. In addition to the other beneficial effects, the alkaloids also have laxative properties that help promote regular bowel movements.
Kampillaka (Shendri)
The phytochemicals in the roots and fruits of this medicinal plant possess strong laxative actions, hence its use may promote and regularize bowel movements.
Saptala (Oregano)
The herb and the essential oil of Oregano has a long medicinal history, they are also used as laxatives to promote bowel movements, due to their cathartic effects.
Udakiryaka (Teripod)
These large prickly shrubs have numerous medicinal benefits; one of them is their laxative effect that helps promote bowel movement and prevent constipation.
Ayurveda, in addition to herbs and medications, focuses a lot on changing one’s daily lifestyle which brings a positive change in his/her physical and mental health and also keep problems like constipation at bay.