By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 18, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Constipation
Herbal creams for constipation are topical remedies that combine natural herbs and ingredients to provide relief from constipation.
These creams work by stimulating bowel movements, relaxing muscles, and improving digestion. Examples include creams infused with aloe vera, chamomile, and peppermint, which help to soothe the digestive system and reduce symptoms of constipation.
By using these creams, individuals can experience improved bowel regularity and a reduced risk of complications, ultimately enhancing their overall quality of life and comfort.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for constipation, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Senna alexandrina
- 2. Taraxacum officinale
- 3. Zingiber officinale
- 4. Plantago ovata
- 5. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 6. Curcuma longa
- 7. Ulmus rubra
- 8. Foeniculum vulgare
- 9. Matricaria chamomilla
- 10. Ginkgo biloba
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for constipation?
- What ailments similar to constipation are treated with herbal creams?
1. Senna alexandrina
Senna alexandrina, also known as cassia, creams helps with constipation because they contain anthraquinone glycosides, which stimulate bowel movements and increase muscle contractions in the intestines.
These active compounds help to break down stool and reduce the time it takes for food to pass through the digestive system. As a result, Senna alexandrina creams can help to alleviate constipation by promoting regular bowel movements and restoring a healthy balance to the digestive system.
This can provide relief from uncomfortable symptoms and promote overall digestive well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Senna alexandrina creams that help with constipation.
- Anthraquinone glycosides: These compounds stimulate bowel movements, increase gut motility, and promote the elimination of waste, thereby relieving constipation.
- Sennosides: Sennosides are anthraquinone glycosides that are directly responsible for the laxative properties of Senna alexandrina, as they are converted into anthraquinone aglycones in the gut, inducing a cathartic effect.
- Emodin: Emodin is an anthraquinone aglycone that has a direct effect on the gut, stimulating the secretion of water and electrolytes, which helps to soften and move stool through the digestive system, alleviating constipation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of cassia used to make creams for constipation.
- Roots: The roots are rich in anthraquinones, which are used to stimulate bowel movements and relieve constipation.
- Leaves: The leaves contain sennosides, which are anthraquinone glycosides that help to stimulate bowel movements and relieve constipation.
- Seeds: The seeds of Senna alexandrina are also used to treat constipation due to their anthraquinone content, which helps to stimulate bowel movements.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic cassia for constipation.
- Dry the senna alexandrina pods in a low-temperature oven at 150°f for 2 hours to preserve their potency.
- Grind the dried pods into a fine powder using a coffee grinder for 5 minutes.
- Mix 10 grams of the ground pods with 20 grams of beeswax and 20 grams of coconut oil in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture in the double boiler at 180°f for 30 minutes or until the beeswax melts completely.
- Strain the cream into a clean container and let it cool to room temperature for 2 hours.
2. Taraxacum officinale
Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, creams helps with constipation because it contains inulin and other compounds that stimulate the digestive system.
The roots of the dandelion plant have been used for centuries to aid in bowel movements and relieve constipation. The cream's emollient and soothing properties also help to soften stool and make it easier to pass, providing relief from constipation and promoting a healthy digestive system.
Regular use can also help to establish a regular bowel movement schedule.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale creams that help with constipation.
- Inulin: Inulin is a type of fructan that acts as a prebiotic, feeding beneficial gut bacteria and promoting a healthy gut microbiome, which can help to regulate bowel movements and alleviate constipation.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to soothe and protect the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and promoting the movement of food through the digestive system.
- Taraxasterol: Taraxasterol is a triterpenoid saponin that has been shown to have laxative effects, increasing gut motility and water absorption in the intestines, which can help to relieve constipation and promote regular bowel movements.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make creams for constipation.
- Roots: The roots of Taraxacum officinale are rich in inulin, a natural prebiotic that helps promote gut health and relieve constipation.
- Leaves: Dandelion leaves are high in potassium, which can help regulate bowel movements and alleviate constipation.
- Seeds: Dandelion seeds are a good source of oil, which can be used to create topical creams that help stimulate digestion and relieve constipation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for constipation.
- Harvest approximately 250g of fresh taraxacum officinale roots in the early morning to obtain maximum potency.
- Dry the harvested roots in a low-temperature oven at 50°c for 2 hours to preserve medicinal properties.
- Combine 100g of dried taraxacum officinale roots with 200g of beeswax in a double boiler to create a base mixture.
- Add 50g of coconut oil and 20g of shea butter to the base mixture and stir until fully incorporated.
- Pour the final mixture into glass jars and allow it to cool and solidify for 30 minutes.
3. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, creams helps with constipation because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties and ability to stimulate digestion.
The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerols and shogaols, help to increase gut motility and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract. This can help to prevent constipation by promoting regular bowel movements and relieving symptoms such as bloating and discomfort.
Regular use of ginger creams may also help to maintain a healthy gut and prevent future constipation episodes.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale creams that help with constipation.
- Gingerols: These volatile compounds, particularly [6]-gingerol, help relax the smooth muscles in the intestines, reducing spasms and improving bowel movement.
- Shogaols: These bioactive compounds, similar to gingerols, also help relax the intestinal muscles, reducing inflammation and improving the motility of the gut, thus alleviating constipation.
- Zingiberene: This sesquiterpene has anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract and promote the movement of food through the digestive system, thereby relieving constipation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make creams for constipation.
- Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes of Zingiber officinale are commonly used due to their high concentration of gingerols and shogaols, which have natural laxative properties.
- Roots: The roots of Zingiber officinale are also used to make creams for constipation, as they contain compounds that stimulate digestion and relieve bowel movements.
- Leaves: The leaves of Zingiber officinale are sometimes used to make creams, as they have been found to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe digestive issues.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for constipation.
- Harvest 10-15 fresh zingiber officinale rhizomes in late summer or early fall when the plants start to yellow.
- Steam the rhizomes for 10-15 minutes to extract the active compounds and soften the outer skin.
- Grind 200g of the steamed rhizomes into a fine paste using a mortar and pestle or a coffee grinder.
- Mix 100g of beeswax with 100g of coconut oil and 50g of shea butter in a heat-proof bowl.
- Combine the ground zingiber officinale paste with the melted beeswax mixture and stir until well combined and smooth.
4. Plantago ovata
Plantago ovata, also known as psyllium, creams helps with constipation because they swell in water, forming a gel-like substance that increases the bulk of stool and softens its texture.
This helps to stimulate bowel movements and relieve constipation. The soluble fiber in Plantago ovata creams also draws in water, making it easier for the body to pass stool.
Regular use of Plantago ovata creams can help to establish a regular bowel movement and alleviate symptoms of constipation.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Plantago ovata creams that help with constipation.
- Inulin: A type of fructan, inulin helps with constipation by bulking up stool, increasing its water content, and promoting regular bowel movements.
- Apolyporoside: A saponin compound, apolyporoside has been found to have laxative properties, helping to stimulate bowel movements and alleviate constipation.
- Sitosterol: A type of phytosterol, sitosterol has been reported to have a laxative effect, possibly by increasing the motility of the gastrointestinal tract and promoting the elimination of waste.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of psyllium used to make creams for constipation.
- Seeds: Used for their high mucilage content, which helps to soften and lubricate the stool, making it easier to pass.
- Leaves: Used for their mucilaginous properties, which can help to soothe and calm the digestive system.
- Roots: Used for their fiber content, which can help to promote regular bowel movements and prevent constipation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic psyllium for constipation.
- Harvest 50g of dried plantago ovata leaves and flowers from a clean environment.
- Grind the plantago ovata leaves and flowers into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Steep 100g of the powder in 500ml of distilled water at 90c for 10 minutes then cool.
- Mix 10g of beeswax and 10g of cocoa butter with 50g of the cooled herbal infusion in a double boiler.
- Stir and heat the mixture at 60c for 30 minutes then remove and let cool to form a cream.
5. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, creams helps with constipation because of its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
The herb contains glycyrrhizin, a compound that helps to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, making it easier to pass stools. Additionally, licorice cream may help to reduce inflammation in the gut, which can contribute to constipation.
By promoting a healthy balance of gut bacteria and reducing inflammation, glycyrrhiza glabra creams can provide relief from constipation and promote regular bowel movements.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra creams that help with constipation.
- Saponins: These compounds help with constipation by increasing water and electrolyte absorption in the intestines, promoting a softer and more manageable stool.
- Licopyranocoumarin: This flavonoid helps to relax the intestinal muscles, allowing for easier passage of stool and reducing the likelihood of constipation.
- Glycyrrhizin: This triterpene saponin helps to soothe and protect the gastrointestinal tract, reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy digestive environment, which can help alleviate constipation symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make creams for constipation.
- Roots: They contain glycyrrhizin, a natural compound that helps stimulate bowel movements and relieve constipation.
- Leaves: They are used as a natural laxative, helping to induce bowel movements and alleviate constipation symptoms.
- Seeds: They are also used as a natural laxative, containing compounds that help stimulate the digestive system and relieve constipation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for constipation.
- Harvest 50 grams of dried roots of glycyrrhiza glabra and clean them thoroughly with lukewarm distilled water.
- Infuse the roots in 500 milliliters of lukewarm distilled water for 2 hours to release their active ingredients.
- Strain the liquid and combine it with 20 grams of beeswax and 10 grams of coconut oil in a heat-proof container.
- Heat the mixture over low heat and stir constantly for 10 minutes until the beeswax and coconut oil melt.
- Allow the mixture to cool and thicken for 30 minutes before transferring it to a clean container for storage.
6. Curcuma longa
Curcuma longa, also known as turmeric, creams helps with constipation because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The bioactive compound curcumin present in turmeric stimulates bowel movements and improves gut health by increasing the movement of food through the digestive tract. It also helps to relax the muscles in the intestines, allowing waste to pass through more efficiently. Additionally, curcumin's ability to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract can help alleviate symptoms of constipation, such as bloating and discomfort.
Regular use of turmeric creams may provide relief and promote regular bowel movements.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa creams that help with constipation.
- Curcumin: A polyphenolic compound that helps with constipation by reducing inflammation in the digestive tract, relaxing the muscles, and stimulating bowel movements.
- Demethoxycurcumin: A phenolic compound that aids in constipation by enhancing the gut motility, preventing the formation of hard stools, and promoting the secretion of digestive enzymes.
- Turmerone: A sesquiterpene that helps with constipation by reducing inflammation and promoting the healing of the intestinal mucosa, thereby improving gut health and reducing constipation symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make creams for constipation.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are used due to their high content of curcumin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive-aiding properties that help alleviate constipation symptoms.
- Leaves: Leaves are used due to their rich source of essential oils, which can aid in relaxation and reduce spasms in the digestive system, helping to ease constipation.
- Seeds: Seeds are used due to their rich source of fiber and essential oils, which can help stimulate bowel movements and alleviate constipation symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for constipation.
- Grind 4-6 curcuma longa roots into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or spice mill.
- Melt 150g of beeswax in a double boiler over low heat for 10-15 minutes.
- Combine the ground curcuma longa powder with 20g of shea butter in a mixing bowl.
- Add 30g of coconut oil to the mixing bowl and stir until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a glass jar and let it cool and solidify for 30 minutes.
7. Ulmus rubra
Ulmus rubra, also known as slippery elm, creams helps with constipation because of its unique properties.
The inner bark of the Ulmus rubra tree contains mucilage, a thick and protective substance that soothes and protects the digestive tract. When applied topically, the mucilage in the cream helps to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, allowing for a more regular bowel movement.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to treat constipation, making it a popular choice for those seeking a holistic approach to digestive health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ulmus rubra creams that help with constipation.
- Tannins: They help with constipation by reducing inflammation in the gut and promoting bowel movements, making it easier to pass stools.
- Phenolic acids: They have a laxative effect by stimulating the movement of intestinal muscles and increasing the secretion of water into the intestines, making stools softer and easier to pass.
- Flavonoids: They have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help soothe the gut and reduce inflammation, which can contribute to constipation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of slippery elm used to make creams for constipation.
- Barks: Used to make creams due to its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to relieve constipation by reducing inflammation in the digestive tract.
- Roots: Used to make creams because of their potential to stimulate digestive enzymes and relieve constipation by promoting bowel movements.
- Buds: Used to make creams due to their potential to relax the digestive system and relieve constipation by reducing muscle spasms in the intestines.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic slippery elm for constipation.
- Harvest 50g of ulmus rubra bark, dried and powdered, and store in an airtight container for later use.
- Infuse 250ml of olive oil with the powdered bark for 2 hours, then strain and discard solids.
- Combine the infused oil with 50g of beeswax, 20g of candelilla wax, and 10g of coconut oil in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the waxes melt and the mixture reaches 40°c in 30 minutes.
- Pour the mixture into glass jars, allow to cool and solidify, then store in a cool dark place for 24 hours.
8. Foeniculum vulgare
Foeniculum vulgare, also known as fennel, creams helps with constipation because of its natural carminative properties.
The anethole compound present in fennel stimulates digestive enzymes and relaxes the muscles in the digestive tract, promoting regular bowel movements. Additionally, fennel's anti-inflammatory properties soothe the gut lining, reducing inflammation and irritation that can contribute to constipation.
By promoting a healthy gut environment, fennel creams can help alleviate symptoms of constipation and maintain a regular digestive rhythm.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare creams that help with constipation.
- Foeniculin: This sesquiterpene acts as a laxative by increasing the frequency of bowel movements and promoting the elimination of stool.
- Anethole: A phenolic ether compound, anethole has a relaxing effect on the smooth muscles in the gastrointestinal tract, which can help alleviate constipation by promoting regular bowel movements.
- Foeniculone: A sesquiterpene, foeniculone may help to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, improve gut motility, and reduce inflammation, all of which can contribute to alleviating constipation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make creams for constipation.
- Seeds: They are used to make creams for constipation because they contain a high concentration of volatile oils, particularly fenchone and anethole, which have carminative and antispasmodic properties.
- Leaves: They are used to make creams for constipation because they contain essential oils with similar properties to the seeds, helping to relax the intestinal muscles and improve digestion.
- Roots: They are used to make creams for constipation because they contain a range of bioactive compounds, including sesquiterpenes and phenolic acids, with anti-inflammatory and spasmolytic effects.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for constipation.
- Harvest fresh foeniculum vulgare leaves and flowers in the early morning to ensure optimal potency and aroma.
- Dry the harvested foeniculum vulgare leaves and flowers in a warm oven at 40°c for 2 hours to remove excess moisture.
- Combine 200 grams of dried foeniculum vulgare with 100 grams of coconut oil in a double boiler and heat for 30 minutes to infuse the oil.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container and discard the solids.
- Add 50 grams of beeswax and 20 grams of shea butter to the infused oil and heat for an additional 10 minutes to create a smooth cream consistency.
9. Matricaria chamomilla
Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, creams helps with constipation because of its soothing and relaxing properties that calm the digestive system.
The anti-inflammatory compounds in chamomile cream reduce inflammation in the intestines, making it easier for stool to pass through. Additionally, chamomile's antispasmodic properties help to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, preventing spasms that can lead to constipation.
This natural remedy promotes a gentle and regular bowel movement, providing relief from constipation.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla creams that help with constipation.
- Apigenin: This flavonoid helps alleviate constipation by reducing inflammation and relaxing the smooth muscles in the digestive tract, promoting easier bowel movements.
- Luteolin: A flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, luteolin helps soothe the digestive system and improve gut motility, reducing the risk of constipation.
- Α-bisabolol: A sesquiterpene with anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, α-Bisabolol helps calm the digestive system, reduce inflammation, and promote the relaxation of smooth muscles, making bowel movements easier.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make creams for constipation.
- Flowers: They are used because they contain apigenin and other flavonoids that help relax the muscles in the digestive tract and improve bowel movements.
- Seeds: They are used because they contain bitter compounds that stimulate digestion and relieve constipation.
- Leaves: They are used because they contain flavonoids that help reduce inflammation and promote regular bowel movements.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for constipation.
- Harvest 20-30 grams of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers with a pair of clean scissors for best results.
- Steep 10 grams of the dried flowers in 100ml of a carrier oil like sweet almond oil for 2-3 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through a coffee filter into a clean glass container discarding the solids immediately.
- Mix 10% of the infused oil with 90% of a base cream containing ingredients like beeswax and shea butter thoroughly.
- Store the finished cream in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 6 months safely.
10. Ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo biloba, also known as maidenhair tree, creams helps with constipation because it contains flavonoids and terpenoids, which have been shown to improve blood flow to the intestines.
This increased blood flow helps stimulate bowel movements and enhance the contractions of the intestinal muscles, allowing for more efficient movement of food through the digestive system. Additionally, ginkgo biloba creams may also help relax the muscles in the digestive tract, making it easier to pass stool.
Overall, it can provide relief from constipation.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba creams that help with constipation.
- Bilobalide: This terpene has been shown to have a relaxing effect on the gastrointestinal tract, which may help to alleviate constipation by increasing bowel movement and improving stool quality.
- Quercetin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the gut, potentially alleviating constipation symptoms such as bloating and abdominal pain.
- Ginkgotoxin: This compound has been shown to have a laxative effect by increasing the movement of the gut and improving the muscle contractions of the intestinal tract, potentially relieving constipation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make creams for constipation.
- Leaves: Used due to their rich flavonoid and terpenoid content, which helps to relax the muscles and improve bowel function.
- Seeds: Used because they contain ginkgolic acid, which has been shown to have a laxative effect and help stimulate bowel movements.
- Barks: Used due to their content of flavonoids and terpenoids, which may help to relax the muscles and improve bowel function.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for constipation.
- Gather 10% ginkgo biloba extract 120ml, 20% beeswax 40g, 10% shea butter 20g, and 60% coconut oil 120ml.
- Melt the beeswax in a double boiler at 180-190°f for 10-15 minutes to create a smooth consistency.
- Combine the ginkgo biloba extract and shea butter in a bowl and mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the melted beeswax to the ginkgo biloba mixture and mix until a smooth consistency is achieved.
- Pour the mixture into a container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to set.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for constipation?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with constipation is a blend of aloe vera, triphala, and chamomile.
Aloe vera soothes and calms the digestive tract, while triphala stimulates bowel movement and promotes regularity. Chamomile, with its anti-inflammatory properties, helps to ease any discomfort or pain associated with constipation. Together, these creams work synergistically to promote a healthy digestive system, reduce inflammation, and encourage regular bowel movements.
This combination can be applied topically to the abdomen or taken orally as directed.
What ailments similar to constipation are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to constipation/creams.html">constipation/creams.html">constipation that are treated with herbal creams are hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and piles.
Herbal creams containing aloe vera, witch hazel, and chamomile can soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing inflammation and discomfort. Other herbal remedies like calendula and arnica may help promote healing and reduce pain associated with these conditions.
These natural ingredients offer a gentle and non-invasive approach to managing symptoms and promoting overall digestive health.