10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Constipation

Herbal decoctions for constipation are a natural remedy used to relieve symptoms of constipation, such as bloating, abdominal discomfort, and difficulty passing stools.

These decoctions are created by steeping herbs in hot water, which helps to release their active compounds that stimulate bowel movements and soften stool. Examples of herbal decoctions that help with constipation include senna leaf, licorice root, and peppermint tea.

Drinking these decoctions regularly can improve digestion, reduce symptoms, and restore regular bowel habits, ultimately improving overall well-being and quality of life.

The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for constipation, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Senna alata

Candle bush decoctions helps with constipation because they stimulate the digestive system to move food more efficiently through the intestines.

The herbal compounds in candle bush, such as saponins and flavonoids, help to soften and loosen stool, making it easier to pass. Additionally, candle bush has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce inflammation in the colon, which is often a contributing factor to constipation.

By promoting healthy bowel function, candle bush decoctions can help to alleviate symptoms of constipation and promote regularity.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Senna alata decoctions that help with constipation.

• Anthraquinones: They help with constipation by acting as laxatives, stimulating the muscles in the intestines to move food through the digestive system and promoting bowel movements.
• Coumarins: They help with constipation by relaxing the smooth muscles in the digestive tract, allowing for the passage of stool and improving bowel function.
• Flavonoids: They help with constipation by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the digestive tract, improving the overall health of the gut and promoting regular bowel movements.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of candle bush used to make decoctions for constipation.

• Leaves: The leaves of Senna alata are commonly used to make decoctions for constipation due to their high content of sennosides, which stimulate bowel movement.
• Roots: The roots are used to make decoctions for constipation as they contain sennosides and other anthraquinones that help to relieve constipation.
• Buds: The buds of Senna alata are used to make decoctions for constipation due to their high concentration of sennosides, which have a laxative effect.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic candle bush for constipation.

1. Collect the required amount of dried senna alata leaves and flowers weighing approximately 15 grams.
2. Crush the collected senna alata material into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
3. Measure out 500 milliliters of water and bring it to a boil in a saucepan.
4. Add the senna alata powder to the boiling water and stir well for 5 minutes.
5. Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the decoction to steep for 30 minutes before straining it.

2. Foeniculum vulgare

Fennel decoctions helps with constipation because it stimulates the digestive system, promoting regular bowel movements.

The carminative properties of fennel help to eliminate gas and bloating, reducing discomfort and pressure in the abdomen. Additionally, fennel's anti-inflammatory effects soothe the gut lining, reducing inflammation and irritation that can contribute to constipation.

By increasing motility and relaxing the muscles in the digestive tract, fennel decoctions encourage a healthy bowel habit, making it an effective natural remedy for alleviating chronic constipation.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare decoctions that help with constipation.

• Foeniculin: Foeniculin is a sesquiterpene lactone that helps with constipation by increasing bowel motility and relaxing the muscles in the digestive tract, making it easier to pass stools.
• Anethole: Anethole is a phenolic compound that helps with constipation by stimulating the digestive system and increasing the secretion of digestive enzymes, which helps to break down food and promote bowel movement.
• Fenchone: Fenchone is a terpene that helps with constipation by relaxing the muscles in the digestive tract and increasing the secretion of digestive enzymes, which helps to break down food and promote bowel movement.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make decoctions for constipation.

• Fruits: They are used due to their carminative properties, which help to ease digestion and relieve constipation.
• Seeds: They are used due to their high content of essential oils, specifically anethole, which has a soothing effect on the digestive system.
• Leaves: They are used due to their mild carminative and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to regulate bowel movements and alleviate constipation symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for constipation.

1. Harvest 20 grams of fresh foeniculum vulgare roots and cut them into small pieces.
2. Combine the chopped roots with 1 liter of boiling water in a saucepan.
3. Reduce heat to a simmer and let the mixture steep for 10 minutes.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl.
5. Discard the solids and let the decoction cool to room temperature before storing.

3. Arctium lappa

Burdock decoctions helps with constipation because its roots contain inulin, a soluble fiber that acts as a natural laxative.

Inulin stimulates the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, which breaks down and absorbs water, softening stool and promoting regular bowel movements. Additionally, burdock's anti-inflammatory properties help to soothe and calm the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with constipation.

Regular consumption of burdock decoctions can lead to a balanced and healthy gut, alleviating symptoms of chronic constipation and promoting overall digestive well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Arctium lappa decoctions that help with constipation.

• Inulin: Inulin helps with constipation by promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, increasing water absorption, and softening stool, making it easier to pass.
• Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids, such as arctiin, help with constipation by stimulating bowel movements, increasing gut motility, and reducing inflammation in the digestive tract.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, such as astragalin, help with constipation by relaxing the muscles in the digestive tract, improving gut motility, and reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of burdock used to make decoctions for constipation.

• Roots: They contain inulin, a soluble fiber that acts as a natural laxative and helps to soften stool.
• Seeds: They are rich in mucilage, a thick, gel-like substance that helps to soothe and lubricate the digestive tract, promoting bowel movements.
• Leaves: They contain tannins, which can help to stimulate bowel movements and relieve constipation by increasing fluid secretion in the intestines.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic burdock for constipation.

1. Harvest 20-30 grams of dried root of arctium lappa from a trusted source.
2. Rinse the dried root under cold running water to remove any impurities.
3. Combine 2 teaspoons of the rinsed root with 1 liter of boiling water in a pot.
4. Simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes to release the medicinal properties of the root.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

4. Tilia platyphyllos

Broad-leaved lime decoctions helps with constipation because of its unique combination of properties.

The herb contains mucilages that help to soften stool, making it easier to pass, and also has a gentle laxative effect. Additionally, the decoction's soothing properties can help to calm irritated bowels and reduce inflammation, which can contribute to constipation.

By promoting regular bowel movements and reducing symptoms of discomfort, broad-leaved lime decoctions offer a natural and effective way to alleviate constipation.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Tilia platyphyllos decoctions that help with constipation.

• Flavonoids: These compounds help with constipation by enhancing intestinal motility and improving blood flow to the digestive system, which aids in the smooth movement of bowel contents.
• Tannins: Tannins in Tilia platyphyllos decoctions help with constipation by reducing inflammation in the digestive tract, soothing the gut lining, and promoting the normal functioning of the bowel muscles.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids present in Tilia platyphyllos decoctions help with constipation by modulating the gut microbiome, reducing oxidative stress in the gut, and promoting the relaxation of smooth muscle in the digestive system, which facilitates the passage of stool.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of broad-leaved lime used to make decoctions for constipation.

• Barks: The bark of Tilia platyphyllos is used due to its astringent and antispasmodic properties that can help alleviate constipation.
• Leaves: The leaves are used for their laxative properties, which can help stimulate bowel movements and relieve constipation.
• Roots: The roots are used for their soothing and calming effects, which can help relax the digestive system and promote bowel movements.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic broad-leaved lime for constipation.

1. Harvest 1 to 2 cups of fresh tilia platyphyllos leaves from a pesticide-free area in early morning.
2. Chop the harvested leaves into small pieces to release their medicinal properties and increase surface area.
3. Combine the chopped leaves with 2 cups of boiling water in a heat-resistant container to create a decoction.
4. Steep the mixture for 5 to 7 minutes to allow the herbal properties to infuse into the water.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the solid herbal particles.

5. Berberis aquifolium

Oregon grape decoctions helps with constipation because of its unique combination of anthraquinone glycosides, which stimulate the muscles in the digestive tract to contract and move stool through the intestines.

Additionally, the decoction's anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe irritated bowel walls and reduce inflammation that can contribute to chronic constipation.

The natural laxative effects of Oregon grape also promote regularity and improve overall gut health, making it a gentle yet effective remedy for alleviating constipation symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Berberis aquifolium decoctions that help with constipation.

• Berberine: Berberine stimulates gut motility and improves bowel function by increasing the frequency and reducing the duration of bowel movements, thus helping to alleviate constipation.
• Vasaka alkaloids: Vasaka alkaloids, specifically berberine, have been shown to have a laxative effect by increasing the secretion of bile and improving gut motility, thereby helping to relieve constipation.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Berberis aquifolium, such as quercetin, have anti-inflammatory properties and help to improve gut health, promoting regular bowel movements and alleviating constipation symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of oregon grape used to make decoctions for constipation.

• Leaves: Used due to their high content of anthraquinones, which have laxative properties.
• Barks: Utilized because of their rich anthraquinone content, promoting bowel movements and relieving constipation.
• Roots: Employed for their anthraquinone and alkaloid properties, helping to stimulate the digestive system and alleviate constipation.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic oregon grape for constipation.

1. Harvest berberis aquifolium roots and rhizomes in the fall after the plant has died back and dried completely.
2. Chop the harvested roots and rhizomes into small pieces and dry them in a warm place.
3. Steep 10-20 grams of the dried roots and rhizomes in 1 liter of water for 10-15 minutes.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
5. Store the decoction in the refrigerator and consume 20-30 milliliters 2-3 times a day as needed.

6. Aloe vera

Aloe decoctions helps with constipation because it possesses natural laxative properties that stimulate bowel movements, helping to alleviate symptoms of irregularity.

The gel-like substance inside the aloe leaf contains mucilages and anthraquinones, which help soften stool, making it easier to pass. Additionally, aloe's anti-inflammatory properties may soothe the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with constipation.

As a result, regular consumption of aloe decoctions can promote healthy bowel function and relieve symptoms of constipation.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera decoctions that help with constipation.

• Anthraquinones: These glycosidic compounds help stimulate bowel movements and relieve constipation by increasing water and electrolyte absorption in the intestines.
• Friedelin: This triterpenoid compound has been shown to have a laxative effect by increasing intestinal motility and promoting the secretion of digestive enzymes.
• Aloin: This anthraquinone glycoside is responsible for the laxative properties of Aloe vera, as it stimulates the muscles in the digestive tract to contract and move stool through the intestines.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make decoctions for constipation.

• Leaves: They are the most commonly used part due to their high gel content, which helps to soften and lubricate the digestive system, easing constipation.
• Rhyzomes: They contain a higher concentration of aloin, a laxative compound that stimulates bowel movements and relieves constipation.
• Stems: The stem of Aloe vera contains a gel-like substance similar to the leaves, providing relief from constipation and other digestive issues.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for constipation.

1. Harvest 10-15 mature aloe vera leaves with thick green skin to ensure optimal potency and quality.
2. Cut the leaves into small pieces and remove the outer green skin to reveal the clear gel.
3. Soak 2 tablespoons of the aloe vera gel in 1 cup of boiling water for 10-15 minutes.
4. Strain the mixture using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove any remaining pulp.
5. Allow the decoction to cool and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

7. Valeriana officinalis

Valerian decoctions helps with constipation because it stimulates digestion, relaxes the muscles in the digestive tract, and soothes the gut lining.

The valerenic acid in valerian root has a calming effect on the intestines, reducing spasms and inflammation that can lead to constipation.

Additionally, valerian's natural sedative properties can help regulate bowel movements by promoting regularity and ease of elimination, allowing for smoother passage of stool and relief from uncomfortable symptoms associated with constipation.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis decoctions that help with constipation.

• Valerenic acid: Valerenic acid helps with constipation by relaxing the smooth muscle in the digestive tract, increasing bowel motility and promoting regular bowel movements.
• Valeranone: Valeranone acts as a spasmolytic agent, reducing muscle spasms and increasing the frequency of bowel movements, helping to alleviate constipation.
• Isovaleric acid: Isovaleric acid, an isovalerate, is known to have a laxative effect, which helps stimulate bowel movements and relieve constipation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make decoctions for constipation.

• Roots: The roots are the most commonly used part of Valeriana officinalis due to their high concentration of valerenic acid, which has a sedative effect and can help relax the digestive system.
• Stems: The stems are also used for their valerenic acid content, which can help calm the digestive muscles and promote bowel movements.
• Leaves: The leaves, although less commonly used, can be used for their mild sedative and anti-inflammatory properties, which can aid in relieving constipation symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for constipation.

1. Gather 1 part of dried valeriana officinalis roots in a clean environment free from contamination.
2. Weigh 1 to 3 grams of the dried roots and transfer them to a heat-resistant container.
3. Combine the dried roots with 200 to 500 milliliters of boiling water in the container.
4. Steep the mixture for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the roots to infuse into the water.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a separate container.

8. Gentiana lutea

Yellow gentian decoctions helps with constipation because of its natural bitter properties, which stimulate digestive enzymes and increase gut motility.

The decoction's gentle yet potent stimulation of the gastrointestinal tract can help to alleviate symptoms of constipation, such as infrequent bowel movements and hard stools. Additionally, yellow gentian has been traditionally used to soothe and calm irritated digestive tissues, allowing for a smoother passage of stool and relief from discomfort.

This natural remedy promotes a healthy balance in the gut, supporting regular bowel habits and overall digestive well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Gentiana lutea decoctions that help with constipation.

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help stimulate bowel movements and alleviate constipation by promoting the relaxation of smooth muscles in the digestive tract and increasing gut motility.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Gentiana lutea decoctions possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe and protect the gastrointestinal tract, thereby reducing inflammation and promoting regular bowel movements.
• Alkaloids: These alkaloids have been found to have a laxative effect by stimulating the secretion of bile and increasing the contraction of intestinal muscles, ultimately promoting the elimination of waste and alleviating constipation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of yellow gentian used to make decoctions for constipation.

• Roots: The roots of Gentiana lutea are used to make decoctions for constipation because they are rich in iridoid glycosides, which have a laxative effect.
• Leaves: The leaves of Gentiana lutea are used to make decoctions for constipation because they contain iridoid glycosides that help stimulate bowel movements.
• Barks: The barks of Gentiana lutea are used to make decoctions for constipation because they contain compounds that help to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, promoting bowel movements.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yellow gentian for constipation.

1. Harvest 10-20 grams of dried roots of gentiana lutea from a trusted source in the fall season.
2. Crush the harvested roots into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder.
3. Mix 1-2 teaspoons of the root powder with 1 quart of boiling water in a large pot.
4. Reduce the heat to a simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container.

9. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion decoctions helps with constipation because of its unique properties that stimulate digestive function.

The diuretic and laxative properties in dandelion roots and leaves help to increase stool frequency and softness, making it easier to pass bowel movements. Additionally, the bitter compounds present in dandelions help to stimulate the appetite and improve digestion, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals who experience constipation due to poor eating habits or digestive issues.

Overall, dandelion decoctions can help to regulate bowel movements and alleviate symptoms of constipation naturally.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale decoctions that help with constipation.

• Inulin: Inulin acts as a natural laxative by stimulating the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, increasing the frequency of bowel movements, and softening stool.
• Taraxasterol: Taraxasterol helps to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, reducing spasms and increasing the movement of food through the digestive system, which alleviates constipation.
• Apigenin: Apigenin has been shown to have a direct effect on the smooth muscle of the gut, promoting relaxation and increasing peristalsis, which helps to move food through the digestive system more efficiently.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make decoctions for constipation.

• Roots: They are used due to their high fiber content, which helps to bulk up stool and stimulate bowel movement.
• Leaves: They are used as they contain inulin, a non-digestible fiber that helps to soften stool and improve digestion.
• Seeds: They are used as they contain mucilages, which can help to lubricate the intestines and promote regular bowel movements.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for constipation.

1. Harvest the fresh or dried taraxacum officinale roots and leaves in a quantity of 30-60 grams.
2. Rinse the harvested plant material with cold water to remove dirt and debris.
3. Combine the plant material with 1 liter of cold water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes to extract active compounds from the plant material.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

10. Hyoscyamus niger

Henbane decoctions helps with constipation because it stimulates digestive muscles, increasing contractions that help move stool through the intestines.

The decoction's active compounds, such as scopine and hyoscyamine, also relax the intestinal tract, reducing inflammation and spasms that can contribute to constipation.

Additionally, henbane has a mild laxative effect, helping to soften stool and make it easier to pass, promoting regular bowel movements and relief from symptoms of constipation.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hyoscyamus niger decoctions that help with constipation.

• Scopolamine: A tropane alkaloid that helps relax the smooth muscles in the intestines, thereby facilitating bowel movements and alleviating constipation.
• Hyoscyamine: A tropane alkaloid that has antispasmodic and anticholinergic properties, which help relax the muscles in the intestines and reduce cramping, making it easier to pass stools.
• Scoulerine: A phenanthrene alkaloid that may help stimulate bowel movements by increasing the contractions of the intestinal muscles and improving gut motility.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of henbane used to make decoctions for constipation.

• Roots: The roots of Hyoscyamus niger are used due to their high concentration of alkaloids that help to stimulate bowel movements and relieve constipation.
• Leaves: The leaves are used due to their antispasmodic and laxative properties, which help to relax the muscles in the digestive tract and promote regular bowel movements.
• Seeds: The seeds are used due to their high content of alkaloids, particularly scopolamine and hyoscyamine, which help to stimulate the digestive system and relieve constipation.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic henbane for constipation.

1. Harvest 30-60 grams of dried roots of hyoscyamus niger from a trusted source to use in decoction.
2. Boil 1 liter of water in a pot for 5-7 minutes to create a suitable decoction base.
3. Combine the harvested roots with the boiling water in the pot and reduce heat to a simmer.
4. Let the decoction simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow for optimal extraction of the plant's constituents.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the plant material.

What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for constipation?

The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with constipation is a blend of triphala, senna, and licorice root.

Triphala, an Ayurvedic herb, stimulates bowel movement and improves digestion. Senna, with its natural laxative properties, helps to ease constipation.

Licorice root, rich in glycyrrhizin, soothes the digestive tract and reduces inflammation. This synergistic combination can help to regulate bowel movements, reduce straining, and promote overall digestive health.

It's essential to consult a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedies, especially if you have underlying health conditions or allergies.

What ailments similar to constipation are treated with herbal decoctions?

Ailments similar to constipation/decoctions.html">constipation/decoctions.html">constipation that are treated with herbal decoctions are digestive disorders such as dyspepsia, diarrhea, and bloating.

Herbal decoctions like peppermint, ginger, and turmeric are often used to soothe the digestive system and alleviate symptoms of indigestion, nausea, and stomach pain.

Additionally, herbal remedies for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) may also involve the use of herbal decoctions.