By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Capsules For Constipation
Herbal capsules for constipation are a natural solution that combines the benefits of herbs with capsule technology to provide relief from constipation symptoms.
These capsules contain a blend of herbs such as psyllium, senna, and cascara sagrada, which help stimulate bowel movements and soften stool, making it easier to pass. For example, products like Nature's Bounty Constipation Relief Capsules or Puritan's Pride Psyllium Husk Capsules can help improve digestion and regularity, reducing discomfort and bloating.
By using herbal capsules for constipation, individuals can experience improved overall health and wellbeing, with enhanced energy levels and reduced anxiety.
The following article describes in detail the most important capsules for constipation, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Plantago ovata
- 2. Gentiana lutea
- 3. Taraxacum officinale
- 4. Sanguisorba minor
- 5. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 6. Tribulus terrestris
- 7. Aloe vera
- 8. Mentha x piperita
- 9. Zingiber officinale
- 10. Curcuma longa
- What is the best combination of herbal capsules to use for constipation?
- What ailments similar to constipation are treated with herbal capsules?
1. Plantago ovata
Psyllium capsules helps with constipation because they contain a soluble fiber that absorbs water in the digestive system, softening stool and making it easier to pass.
This helps to promote regular bowel movements and relieve symptoms of constipation such as bloating, discomfort, and straining.
Additionally, psyllium also increases the bulk of stool, which can help to stimulate the muscles in the intestines to contract and move stool through the digestive system more efficiently.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Plantago ovata capsules that help with constipation.
- Psyllidin: This alkaloid helps to increase bowel movements and soften stool, making it easier to pass, and also has a mild laxative effect.
- Tannins: The tannins present in Plantago ovata help to increase the water content in the stool and relax the muscles in the intestines, making it easier to have a bowel movement.
- Fiber: The mucilage in Plantago ovata forms a protective barrier on the intestinal mucosa, helping to retain water, soften stool, and ease the passage of stool.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of psyllium used to make capsules for constipation.
- Seeds: Used to make capsules for constipation due to their high mucilage content, which helps to soften stool and promote regular bowel movements.
- Leaves: Used to make capsules for constipation as they are rich in mucilage, which helps to protect and soothe the gastrointestinal tract.
- Roots: Used to make capsules for constipation due to their high concentration of mucilage and fiber, which helps to regulate bowel movements and prevent constipation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic psyllium for constipation.
- Harvest fresh plantago ovata leaves and stems to use for herbal capsule making.
- Dry the harvested plantago ovata leaves and stems in a low-temperature dehydrator at 40 degrees celsius for 24 hours.
- Grind 2 cups of dried plantago ovata into a fine powder using a coffee grinder.
- Mix the ground plantago ovata powder with 2 tablespoons of gelatin to create a mixture.
- Fill empty gelatin capsules with the plantago ovata gelatin mixture and seal the capsules using a capsule sealer.
2. Gentiana lutea
Yellow gentian capsules helps with constipation because they contain a natural bitter compound that stimulates digestive enzymes and increases bowel movement.
The capsule's active ingredients, such as yellow gentian root extract, work to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, allowing stool to pass more freely and regularly. Additionally, the herbal remedy also helps to reduce inflammation and spasms in the colon, which can contribute to constipation.
As a result, yellow gentian capsules provide a natural and effective way to alleviate symptoms of constipation and promote regular bowel movements.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Gentiana lutea capsules that help with constipation.
- Gentianine: This alkaloid helps with constipation by stimulating the digestive system and increasing gut motility, promoting regular bowel movements.
- Gentianic acid: This phenolic compound has laxative properties, helping to soften stool and stimulate bowel movements, relieving constipation.
- Xanthones: These compounds, specifically gentisin and gentisic acid, have been found to have laxative effects, helping to regulate bowel movements and alleviate constipation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of yellow gentian used to make capsules for constipation.
- Roots: Gentiana lutea roots are used to make capsules due to their high content of iridoids, particularly gentiopicroside, which has laxative properties.
- Rhyzomes: Gentiana lutea rhyzomes are used to make capsules due to their ability to stimulate bowel movements and relieve constipation.
- Seeds: Gentiana lutea seeds are used to make capsules due to their rich content of gentiopicrin, which has a laxative effect.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yellow gentian for constipation.
- Gather 250 grams of dried gentiana lutea roots and stems from a reputable source.
- Grind the dried material into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle for 10 minutes.
- Mix 100 grams of the powder with 50 grams of gelatin in a bowl for 2 minutes.
- Heat the mixture in a double boiler to dissolve the gelatin at 160 degrees fahrenheit for 20 minutes.
- Fill 100 empty capsules with the cooled mixture and seal them tightly using a capsule filler for 10 minutes.
3. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion capsules helps with constipation because they stimulate the digestive system to move food through the intestines more efficiently.
The capsules contain bioactive compounds that increase gut motility, reduce inflammation, and alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Additionally, dandelion's diuretic properties help eliminate excess water in the body, reducing bloating and discomfort associated with constipation.
By promoting regular bowel movements, dandelion capsules can provide relief from chronic constipation and promote overall digestive health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale capsules that help with constipation.
- Taraxasterol: This triterpenoid saponin helps with constipation by promoting the relaxation of the intestinal smooth muscle, which in turn enhances intestinal motility and improves bowel movements.
- Alkaloids: These compounds, including taraxasterol and caffeic acid, exhibit a laxative effect by stimulating the contraction of intestinal muscles and increasing the secretion of water and electrolytes in the intestines, thereby softening stool and promoting bowel movements.
- Flavonoids: Inulin, a fructan, acts as a prebiotic, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, which can improve digestion, enhance the absorption of nutrients, and stimulate bowel movements, ultimately helping to alleviate constipation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make capsules for constipation.
- Roots: They contain inulin, a type of soluble fiber that helps promote bowel movements and alleviate constipation.
- Leaves: They contain flavonoids, sesquiterpene lactones, and other bioactive compounds that may help stimulate the digestive system and relieve constipation.
- Seeds: They contain inulin and other prebiotic fibers that can help feed beneficial bacteria in the gut, promoting a healthy gut microbiome and regular bowel movements.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for constipation.
- Harvest 10-20 fresh taraxacum officinale roots with a fork and dry them in a warm place for 2 weeks.
- Grind 2 teaspoons of dried taraxacum officinale roots into a fine powder using a coffee grinder for 30 seconds.
- Mix 2 teaspoons of the taraxacum officinale powder with 1 tablespoon of gelatin and 2 tablespoons of water in a bowl.
- Pour the mixture into empty gelatin capsules and seal them with a capsule sealer for 10 seconds.
- Label the capsules with the contents and date and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 6 months.
4. Sanguisorba minor
Salad burnet capsules helps with constipation because of its unique ability to stimulate digestive processes and soften stool.
The herb's natural properties, particularly its saponin content, help to increase bowel motility and alleviate symptoms such as bloating and discomfort. Additionally, salad burnet's anti-inflammatory effects may reduce irritation and inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, allowing for a smoother passage of waste through the system and promoting regular bowel movements.
This holistic approach can provide long-lasting relief from constipation symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sanguisorba minor capsules that help with constipation.
- Tannins: Help with constipation by increasing the water-holding capacity of stool, making it softer and easier to pass.
- Flavonoids: Contribute to the relief of constipation by improving gut motility and relaxing the muscles in the digestive tract.
- Astragalin: A type of flavonoid glycoside, which may help alleviate constipation by increasing the secretion of digestive enzymes and improving the overall digestive process.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of salad burnet used to make capsules for constipation.
- Leaves: Sanguisorba minor leaves are used to make capsules for constipation because they contain anthraquinones, which have a laxative effect.
- Roots: Sanguisorba minor roots are used to make capsules for constipation because they contain tannins and anthraquinones that help stimulate bowel movements.
- Stems: Sanguisorba minor stems are used to make capsules for constipation because they contain anthraquinones, similar to the leaves and roots, which help relieve constipation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic salad burnet for constipation.
- Harvest 20-30 grams of dried sanguisorba minor root and leaf material from a reputable supplier or your own garden.
- Dry the material at 50-60 degrees celsius for 2 hours to ensure a consistent moisture level.
- Grind the dried material into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle for 5 minutes.
- Mix 1 part of the powdered sanguisorba minor with 2 parts of gelatin capsules to create the final product.
- Fill gelatin capsules with the mixture and seal them using a capsule filling machine or a manual filling tool.
5. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice capsules helps with constipation because they contain glycyrrhizin, a compound that has natural laxative properties.
The herb stimulates the digestive system to move food through the colon and increases bowel frequency. Additionally, licorice root has anti-inflammatory effects that may help soothe and calm the digestive tract, reducing symptoms of constipation such as bloating and discomfort.
Regular use of herbal licorice capsules can promote regular bowel movements and alleviate constipation-related issues.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra capsules that help with constipation.
- Licoricidin: Acts as a laxative by stimulating bowel movements and increasing the frequency of defecation, helping to alleviate constipation.
- Glycyrrhizin: Exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which may help soothe the digestive system and reduce inflammation in the intestines, allowing for smoother bowel movements.
- Flavonoids: Have a relaxing effect on the smooth muscle of the intestines, promoting regular bowel movements and reducing the risk of constipation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make capsules for constipation.
- Roots: The roots are the primary source of glycyrrhizin, a compound responsible for the laxative effect, which helps alleviate constipation.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes of Glycyrrhiza glabra contain a high concentration of glycyrrhizin, making them a popular choice for constipation relief.
- Seeds: Although less commonly used, the seeds of Glycyrrhiza glabra are sometimes used due to their lower glycyrrhizin content, which can still provide a gentle laxative effect.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for constipation.
- Harvest 20 to 30 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots from a reliable source.
- Dry the harvested roots in a low-temperature oven at 50°c for 2 hours.
- Grind the dried roots into a fine powder using a coffee grinder for 5 minutes.
- Mix 1 part of the powder with 2 parts of gelatin and 1 part of water to form a uniform paste.
- Fill empty vegetarian capsules with 500mg of the glycyrrhiza glabra paste and seal them tightly.
6. Tribulus terrestris
Puncture vine capsules helps with constipation because they contain the herb Tribulus terrestris, which has natural laxative properties.
The capsules stimulate bowel movements and promote regularity by increasing gut motility and relaxing the muscles in the digestive tract. This allows waste to move more efficiently through the intestines, reducing symptoms of constipation such as bloating, discomfort, and difficulty passing stools.
By supporting healthy digestion, puncture vine capsules can help restore a balanced digestive system and alleviate constipation.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Tribulus terrestris capsules that help with constipation.
- Steroids: Steroids in Tribulus terrestris, particularly furostanol saponins, have been shown to increase gut motility and improve bowel movements, helping to alleviate constipation.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Tribulus terrestris, such as kaempferol and quercetin, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help reduce inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract and promote regular bowel movements.
- Saponins: Saponins in Tribulus terrestris, including tribuloside and protodioscin, have been found to stimulate the contraction of intestinal muscles, enhance gut motility, and increase the frequency of bowel movements, making them beneficial in relieving constipation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of puncture vine used to make capsules for constipation.
- Seeds: They are commonly used due to their high saponin content, which is believed to stimulate bowel movements and relieve constipation.
- Roots: The roots of Tribulus terrestris are also used for constipation relief, possibly due to their ability to increase water and electrolyte absorption in the intestines.
- Seeds: Some sources also support using the seeds of Tribulus terrestris for constipation, possibly due to their stimulant and purgative properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic puncture vine for constipation.
- Gather 500g of dried tribulus terrestris root and stem material.
- Grind 200g of the dried material into a fine powder using a mill.
- Mix the powder with 100g of gelatin and 50g of vegetable glycerin in a bowl.
- Fill 100 empty capsules with the mixture using a powder filling machine.
- Label and date 100 capsules with the contents and recommended dosage of 2 capsules per day.
7. Aloe vera
Aloe capsules helps with constipation because they contain a potent mixture of bioactive compounds, including vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that stimulate bowel movements.
The gel-like substance inside the aloe leaf is rich in mucilage, which soothes and lubricates the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and irritation that can cause constipation.
Additionally, the antioxidants present in aloe capsules help to soften stool and increase gut motility, allowing for regular and comfortable bowel movements.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera capsules that help with constipation.
- Anthraquinones: These glycosidic compounds stimulate bowel movement and relieve constipation by increasing water and electrolyte absorption in the colon, making stools softer and easier to pass.
- Aloin: A type of anthraquinone, aloin helps to stimulate the intestinal muscles and increase the frequency of bowel movements, alleviating constipation and promoting a regular digestive routine.
- Fibrin: A type of soluble dietary fiber, fibrin helps to soften and bulk up stool, making it easier to pass and reducing the risk of constipation and other digestive issues.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make capsules for constipation.
- Leaves: The leaves of Aloe vera contain a gel-like substance with laxative properties that help to relieve constipation.
- Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes of Aloe vera are rich in anthraquinones, which stimulate bowel movements and help to ease constipation.
- Buds: The buds of Aloe vera also contain anthraquinones that help to stimulate bowel movements and relieve constipation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for constipation.
- Harvest fresh aloe vera leaves with 5-7 inches in length to ensure maximum potency and effectiveness.
- Clean and dry the leaves in a well-ventilated area for at least 30 minutes to prevent bacterial growth.
- Grind the dried leaves into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle for 10-15 minutes.
- Fill empty gelatin capsules with 500mg of the aloe vera powder and seal them using a capsule filler for 5 minutes.
- Store the herbal aloe vera capsules in an airtight container in a cool dry place for up to 6 months.
8. Mentha x piperita
Peppermint capsules helps with constipation because they contain a natural oil that soothes the muscles in the digestive tract, reducing spasms and relaxing the colon.
This allows stool to move more freely through the intestines, making it easier for waste to pass and relieving symptoms of constipation such as bloating, discomfort, and straining.
Additionally, peppermint's anti-inflammatory properties may also help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, further alleviating discomfort and promoting regular bowel movements.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita capsules that help with constipation.
- Volatile oils: These compounds help relax the muscles in the digestive tract, reducing spasms that can contribute to constipation and improving overall gut motility.
- Rosmarinic acid: As an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, rosmarinic acid helps soothe the digestive tract, reducing inflammation that can cause constipation and promoting a healthy balance of gut bacteria.
- Menthol: Menthol stimulates digestive tract contractions, increasing the movement of food through the digestive system and helping to relieve constipation by promoting regular bowel movements.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make capsules for constipation.
- Leaves: The leaves are used because they contain high amounts of menthol, which helps to relax the muscles in the digestive tract and promote bowel movements.
- Stems: The stems are used because they contain menthone, a compound that helps to ease digestion and relieve constipation symptoms.
- Roots: The roots are used because they contain a higher concentration of menthol and menthone than the leaves or stems, making them a more potent ingredient for constipation relief.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for constipation.
- Harvest 10-20 grams of fresh leaves of mentha x piperita when the plant is in full bloom.
- Dry the harvested leaves in a single layer at 25-30°c for 7-10 hours or until crispy.
- Grind 5 grams of dried leaves into a fine powder using a coffee grinder for 2 minutes.
- Mix 1 gram of the powdered leaves with 0.5 grams of gelatin and 0.5 grams of water to form a gel.
- Encapsulate the gel mixture into empty capsules using a capsule machine.
9. Zingiber officinale
Ginger capsules helps with constipation because of their natural ability to stimulate digestion and relieve symptoms of bloating, gas, and discomfort.
The ginger content in these capsules has been traditionally used to treat digestive issues, including constipation, by increasing gut motility and reducing inflammation in the intestines.
As a result, herbal ginger capsules can help alleviate hard stools, reduce straining during bowel movements, and restore regular bowel function, promoting a healthy and comfortable digestive system.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale capsules that help with constipation.
- Shogaols: These gingerol derivatives have a laxative effect, helping to stimulate bowel movements and alleviate constipation.
- Gingerols: These compounds have a mild laxative effect, increasing the movement of food through the digestive system and promoting regular bowel movements.
- Terpenes: Terpenes help to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, reducing spasms and promoting the movement of stool through the intestines, thereby easing constipation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make capsules for constipation.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are the most commonly used part for making capsules due to their high concentration of gingerols and shogaols, which have natural anti-inflammatory and digestive properties that help alleviate constipation.
- Roots: The roots of Zingiber officinale are also used for making capsules as they contain a similar composition of gingerols and shogaols as the rhyzomes, making them effective in treating constipation.
- Leaves: Although less commonly used, the leaves of Zingiber officinale can be used to make capsules for constipation relief, as they contain smaller amounts of gingerols and other bioactive compounds that can help stimulate digestion.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for constipation.
- Grind 10 grams of dried zingiber officinale rhizomes into a fine powder using a mill for 2 minutes.
- Mix the powder with 20 grams of gelatin and 5 grams of water in a bowl for 2 minutes.
- Heat the mixture in a double boiler at 40 degrees celsius for 10 minutes to dissolve the gelatin.
- Fill empty capsules with the gelatin mixture using a capsule filler machine for 5 minutes.
- Store the capsules in a cool dry place at room temperature for 2 weeks before consumption.
10. Curcuma longa
Turmeric capsules helps with constipation because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The active compound curcumin in turmeric stimulates the digestive system, increasing motility and reducing inflammation in the gut. This helps to alleviate symptoms of constipation such as bloating, discomfort, and irregular bowel movements.
Additionally, turmeric's natural laxative effects can help soften stool and make it easier to pass, promoting regular and healthy bowel movements.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa capsules that help with constipation.
- Curcumin: It helps with constipation by reducing inflammation in the digestive tract and promoting the movement of food through the intestines, thereby alleviating symptoms of constipation.
- Demethoxycurcumin: It helps with constipation by inhibiting the growth of intestinal bacteria that can contribute to constipation, and also by promoting the contraction of intestinal muscles, which aids in the passage of stool.
- Turmerone: It helps with constipation by relaxing the muscles in the digestive tract and improving the gut motility, allowing for the smooth passage of stool and preventing constipation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make capsules for constipation.
- Rhyzomes: Turmeric rhyzomes are used to make capsules for constipation because they contain bioactive compounds like curcumin, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help regulate bowel movements.
- Roots: Turmeric roots are used to make capsules for constipation because they contain fiber, which helps to soften stool and improve digestion.
- Leaves: Turmeric leaves are used to make capsules for constipation because they contain fiber and antioxidants that help to regulate bowel movements and prevent constipation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for constipation.
- Harvest 1 kilogram of dried turmeric roots and store them in a cool dark place for future use.
- Grind 200 grams of the dried turmeric roots into a fine powder using a coffee grinder for 5 minutes.
- Mix 10 grams of the ground turmeric powder with 10 grams of gelatin and 5 milliliters of glycerin in a bowl.
- Use a capsule machine to fill 60 empty capsules with the turmeric mixture in about 10 minutes.
- Store the filled capsules in a cool dry place for up to 2 years or use them immediately.
What is the best combination of herbal capsules to use for constipation?
The best combination of herbal capsules that help with constipation is a blend of Psyllium Husk, Flaxseed, and Triphala.
Psyllium Husk helps to soften and bulk up stool, while Flaxseed adds moisture and lubrication. Triphala, a traditional Ayurvedic remedy, stimulates bowel movements and improves digestion. This combination works synergistically to promote regular bowel movements, reduce symptoms of constipation, and support overall gut health.
Consult with a healthcare professional before taking any herbal supplements.
What ailments similar to constipation are treated with herbal capsules?
Ailments similar to constipation/capsules.html">constipation/capsules.html">constipation that are treated with herbal capsules are hemorrhoids, diverticulitis, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Herbal supplements like psyllium, flaxseed, and slippery elm help soothe and soften stool, reducing discomfort and pain. Additionally, herbs such as turmeric, ginger, and peppermint may alleviate symptoms of IBS, including bloating, cramps, and diarrhea.
These herbal capsules work to regulate bowel function and promote overall digestive health.