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Last updated: Jul 03, 2024

10 best herbal tinctures for constipation

Herbal tinctures for constipation are liquid extracts made from plants, flowers, and herbs that have natural laxative properties.

These tinctures help to stimulate bowel movements, soften stool, and reduce symptoms of constipation such as bloating and discomfort. For example, senna leaf and dandelion root tinctures have been traditionally used to treat constipation by stimulating the colon and increasing digestive activity.

By using herbal tinctures for constipation, individuals can experience improved regularity, reduced abdominal pain, and enhanced overall well-being, allowing them to live a more comfortable and active life.

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

1. Senna alata

Candle bush tinctures helps with constipation because it contains a unique blend of herbs that stimulate digestive function, relax the muscles in the digestive tract, and increase bowel movement frequency.

The combination of herbs such as senna, licorice root, and peppermint works together to soften stool, ease abdominal discomfort, and promote regularity, making it an effective natural remedy for alleviating constipation symptoms.

Regular use of candle bush tincture can help restore a healthy digestive rhythm and alleviate the discomfort associated with constipation.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in candle bush tinctures that aid with constipation.

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

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

  1. Harvest fresh senna alata leaves and flowers in the morning for optimal potency and quality.
  2. Dry the harvested plant material using shade or sun drying methods for at least 24 hours.
  3. Chop the dried plant material into small pieces and combine it with a carrier liquid such as vodka at a ratio of 1:5.
  4. Allow the mixture to steep in a dark glass container for four to six weeks, shaking daily for optimal extraction.
  5. Strain the tincture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter and store it in amber glass bottles at room temperature for up to two years.

2. Foeniculum vulgare

Fennel tinctures helps with constipation because of its natural properties that stimulate digestion and relieve symptoms associated with irregular bowel movements.

The tannins and fiber present in fennel seeds help to soften stool, making it easier to pass, while the volatile oils increase gastric motility and improve gut contractions. Additionally, fennel's carminative properties reduce bloating and discomfort, allowing for a more regular and comfortable bowel movement.

This natural remedy can provide relief from constipation without harsh medications or artificial additives.

herbal tinctures for constipation foeniculum vulgare herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in fennel tinctures that aid with constipation.

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

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

  1. Harvest fresh or dried fennel leaves and flowers from the foeniculum vulgare plant weighing approximately 100 grams.
  2. Chop the harvested fennel material into small pieces ensuring even drying for optimal extraction.
  3. Combine the chopped fennel with 500 milliliters of vodka in a glass jar sealed tightly to infuse for seven days.
  4. Shake the jar gently twice daily during the seven-day infusion period allowing the tincture to extract essential oils and compounds.
  5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another glass container discarding solids and retaining the clear liquid tincture for further use.

3. Arctium lappa

Burdock tinctures helps with constipation because its active compounds, particularly saponins and mucilages, stimulate bowel function and soften stool, making it easier to pass.

The tincture also increases gut motility, helping to move food through the digestive system more efficiently. Additionally, burdock's anti-inflammatory properties can soothe and calm irritated bowels, reducing symptoms of constipation such as bloating and discomfort.

By addressing the root causes of constipation, herbal burdock tinctures provide a natural and effective solution for maintaining regular bowel movements.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in burdock tinctures that aid with constipation.

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

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

  1. Harvest fresh or dried burdock root in late summer or early fall for optimal potency.
  2. Clean and chop 200g of burdock root into small pieces to increase surface area.
  3. Combine chopped root with 500ml of high-proof vodka or grain alcohol in a clean glass jar.
  4. Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking daily for optimal extraction.
  5. Strain and filter the tincture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean dark glass bottle.

4. Tilia platyphyllos

Broad-leaved lime tinctures helps with constipation because of its natural ability to stimulate the digestive system.

The herb's bitter compounds help to increase stomach contractions, which aids in moving food through the intestines and promoting regular bowel movements. Additionally, broad-leaved lime has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with constipation.

As a result, using herbal broad-leaved lime tinctures can help alleviate symptoms of constipation, promoting a healthy and regular digestive system.

herbal tinctures for constipation tilia platyphyllos herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in broad-leaved lime tinctures that aid with constipation.

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

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

  1. Harvest fresh broad-leaved lime leaves and dry them thoroughly for at least 24 hours.
  2. Combine one part dried tilia platyphyllos leaves with three parts 95% ethanol in a clean glass container.
  3. Allow the mixture to steep for 14 days, shaking the container daily for optimal extraction.
  4. Strain the liquid through a coffee filter or cheesecloth and discard the solids after 24 hours.
  5. Transfer the tincture to dark glass bottles with tight-fitting lids and store in a cool place for up to two years.

5. Berberis aquifolium

Oregon grape tinctures helps with constipation because it is a natural laxative that stimulates bowel movements.

The herb contains anthraquinone glycosides, which help to soften stool and increase gut motility, making it easier for waste to pass through the digestive system. Additionally, Oregon grape has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe the colon lining and reduce inflammation, further contributing to its constipation-relieving effects.

This natural remedy can provide gentle yet effective relief from chronic constipation without harsh chemicals or artificial additives.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in oregon grape tinctures that aid with constipation.

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

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

  1. Harvest fresh oregon grape leaves and stems in the morning after dew has dried.
  2. Wash the harvested plant material with cool water and gently scrub off any dirt or debris.
  3. Dry the washed plant material in a warm, well-ventilated area or using a food dehydrator at low heat for 24 hours.
  4. Combine 1 part dried oregon grape plant material with 5 parts vodka or high-proof grain alcohol in a clean glass jar and let it steep for 2 weeks shaking daily.
  5. Strain the liquid mixture through a coffee filter or cheesecloth into another clean glass bottle discarding the solids and labeling the tincture.

6. Aloe vera

Aloe tinctures helps with constipation because of its soothing and gentle properties that stimulate bowel movements, making it an effective natural remedy for relieving symptoms.

The aloe vera gel contains anthraquinones, which help soften stool, reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, and increase peristalsis, allowing for easier passage of waste through the colon.

Additionally, aloe tinctures have anti-inflammatory properties that calm irritation and discomfort associated with constipation, promoting regular bowel habits and overall digestive health.

herbal tinctures for constipation aloe vera herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in aloe tinctures that aid with constipation.

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

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

  1. Harvest fresh aloe vera leaves from your garden or purchase organic ones at the market weighing approximately one pound each.
  2. Cut the leaves into small pieces and blend them in a blender or food processor to extract the gel-like substance inside.
  3. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or nut milk bag into a large bowl to separate the pulp from the liquid tincture.
  4. Add 20% of 190-proof ethanol or vodka by volume to the aloe liquid and mix well then store in amber glass bottles for six weeks.
  5. After six weeks filter the mixture again through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into dark glass dropper bottles ready for use.

7. Valeriana officinalis

Valerian tinctures helps with constipation because it has a soothing effect on the digestive system, promoting regular bowel movements and relieving symptoms of constipation.

The active compounds in valerian root, such as valerenic acid, have been shown to stimulate digestion and improve gut motility, helping to move food through the intestines and reduce symptoms of bloating, discomfort, and hard stool.

Additionally, valerian's relaxing properties can help alleviate stress and anxiety that may contribute to constipation, promoting a more balanced digestive system.

herbal tinctures for constipation valeriana officinalis herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in valerian tinctures that aid with constipation.

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

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

  1. Harvest fresh valerian root and wash it thoroughly under cold running water.
  2. Dry the cleaned valerian root in a warm, dry place for at least 14 days or use air drying method.
  3. Grind dried valerian root into fine powder using mortar and pestle or coffee grinder.
  4. Combine one part ground valerian root with two parts high-proof vodka or rum in a clean glass jar.
  5. Allow the mixture to steep for six to eight weeks, shaking the jar daily and filtering out solids.

8. Gentiana lutea

Yellow gentian tinctures helps with constipation because it stimulates digestive enzymes and increases bile production, which helps to soften stool and increase bowel movement.

The bitter compounds in yellow gentian also stimulate the release of gastric juices, further aiding digestion and alleviating symptoms of constipation.

Additionally, yellow gentian's anti-inflammatory properties may help soothe irritated intestinal tissues, allowing for smoother passage of stool and relief from constipation.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in yellow gentian tinctures that aid with constipation.

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

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

  1. Harvest high-quality gentiana lutea roots during late summer or early fall for optimal potency.
  2. Cleanse the roots by washing them gently with cold water to remove any dirt debris.
  3. Dry the cleaned roots using a food dehydrator or sun drying method to reduce moisture content.
  4. Combine 1 part dried yellow gentian root with 2 parts vodka in a clean glass jar and label it.
  5. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 6-8 weeks allowing the tincture to mature before straining and filtering.

9. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion tinctures helps with constipation because it contains a unique blend of bioactive compounds that stimulate digestive functions.

The tincture's bitter properties increase gastric contractions, promoting bowel movement and reducing symptoms of slow transit constipation.

Additionally, dandelion's high water content helps soften stool, making it easier to pass, while its anti-inflammatory properties reduce irritation in the rectum and colon, alleviating discomfort associated with chronic constipation.

herbal tinctures for constipation taraxacum officinale herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in dandelion tinctures that aid with constipation.

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

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

  1. Harvest high-quality fresh or dried dandelion roots and leaves in the early morning for maximum potency.
  2. Clean and chop 200g of dried dandelion root and 100g of dried dandelion leaves into small pieces for efficient extraction.
  3. Combine the chopped herbs with 400ml of 45% ethanol in a clean glass jar and let it macerate for 2 weeks at room temperature shaking daily.
  4. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass bottle discarding the solids and retaining the liquid tincture.
  5. Store the dandelion tincture in a cool dark place for 6 months to allow the flavors and medicinal properties to mature before using.

10. Hyoscyamus niger

Henbane tinctures helps with constipation because it stimulates the muscles in the digestive tract to contract and move stool through the colon, promoting regular bowel movements.

The herb's natural laxative properties help to soften and bulk up stool, making it easier to pass. Additionally, henbane's anti-inflammatory effects may also reduce inflammation and irritation in the digestive system, which can contribute to constipation.

As a result, herbal henbane tinctures offer a natural and gentle approach to relieving constipation symptoms.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in henbane tinctures that aid with constipation.

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

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

  1. Harvest dried henbane flowers and leaves in late summer or early fall for optimal potency.
  2. Grind 100g of dried henbane material into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
  3. Combine the ground henbane powder with 500ml of high-proof vodka or everclear in a clean glass jar.
  4. Steep the mixture at room temperature for 6 weeks, shaking the jar daily to ensure maximum extraction.
  5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids after 24 hours of settling.

11. Viscum album

Mistletoe tinctures helps with constipation because of its unique combination of properties.

The herb is known to stimulate the digestive system, increasing motility and promoting regular bowel movements. Additionally, mistletoe has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and calm irritated gut linings, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with constipation. Its antioxidant properties also help to protect the colon from damage caused by free radicals, supporting overall gut health and function.

Regular use of mistletoe tinctures can lead to improved bowel regularity and reduced symptoms of constipation.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in mistletoe tinctures that aid with constipation.

The list below shows the primary parts of mistletoe used to make tinctures for constipation.

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

  1. Harvest fresh or dried viscum album leaves and twigs in quantities suitable for your intended use.
  2. Cleanse the plant material by gently brushing off any dirt or debris to prevent contamination.
  3. Chop the plant material into small pieces to increase its surface area for extraction.
  4. Combine 1 part chopped viscum album with 2 parts high-proof vodka or ethanol in a clean glass jar, ensuring the plant material is completely covered.
  5. Store the mixture in a cool, dark place for at least six weeks and shake daily during this time, allowing for optimal extraction of active compounds.

12. Sanguisorba minor

Salad burnet tinctures helps with constipation because it stimulates digestive processes, increasing bowel movements and reducing symptoms of irregularity.

The plant's natural anthraquinones work to soften stool and promote peristalsis, the muscular contractions that help move food through the digestive system. Additionally, salad burnet's anti-inflammatory properties may help soothe and calm the intestinal lining, reducing discomfort and pain associated with constipation.

By promoting a healthy gut environment, salad burnet tinctures can help alleviate chronic constipation and support overall digestive health.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in salad burnet tinctures that aid with constipation.

The list below shows the primary parts of salad burnet used to make tinctures for constipation.

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

  1. Harvest fresh or dried sanguisorba minor leaves and flowers in the morning after dew has evaporated for maximum potency.
  2. Chop 20-30 grams of the harvested plant material into small pieces to increase surface area for extraction.
  3. Combine the chopped plant material with 500ml of pure grain alcohol or vodka in a clean glass jar, ensuring all parts are covered.
  4. Allow the mixture to steep for 14 days in a cool dark place, shaking the jar daily to facilitate extraction and mixing.
  5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another container, discarding the solids and storing the tincture in a dark glass bottle at room temperature.

13. Polygonum aviculare

Knotweed tinctures helps with constipation because of its natural ability to stimulate digestion and improve bowel function.

The herb's bioactive compounds, including resveratrol and falcarinol, have been shown to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, increasing peristalsis and reducing symptoms of constipation such as bloating and discomfort.

Additionally, knotweed has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and calm the gut lining, promoting a healthy balance of gut flora and regular bowel movements.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in knotweed tinctures that aid with constipation.

The list below shows the primary parts of knotweed used to make tinctures for constipation.

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

  1. Gather high-quality polygonum aviculare leaves and stems weighing approximately one pound.
  2. Cleanse the plant material by rinsing it gently under cold running water followed by air-drying for several hours.
  3. Chop the dried plant material into small pieces using scissors or a herb cutter to facilitate extraction.
  4. Combine the chopped plant material with 80-proof vodka in a clean glass jar at a ratio of one part plant material to three parts solvent and seal the jar tightly.
  5. Allow the mixture to macerate for eight weeks, shaking the jar daily, before straining and filtering the tincture.

14. Verbascum thapsus

Mullein tinctures helps with constipation because of its natural ability to soothe and stimulate the digestive system.

The herb's mucilages help lubricate the colon, making it easier for stool to pass through and reducing inflammation that can exacerbate constipation. Additionally, mullein's gentle, anti-inflammatory properties can ease cramps and discomfort associated with constipation.

By promoting healthy digestion and alleviating symptoms, herbal mullein tinctures provide a natural solution for individuals seeking relief from chronic constipation.

herbal tinctures for constipation verbascum thapsus herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in mullein tinctures that aid with constipation.

The list below shows the primary parts of mullein used to make tinctures for constipation.

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

  1. Harvest fresh or dried verbascum thapsus flowers in the morning after dew has evaporated, ensuring optimal potency.
  2. Chop 100g of collected flowers into smaller pieces and place them in a clean glass jar with a lid.
  3. Pour 500ml of high-proof vodka over the chopped flowers, making sure they are completely covered by the liquid.
  4. Store the mixture in a cool dark place for at least four weeks, shaking the jar every other day to promote infusion.
  5. After the preparation time has elapsed, strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass bottle, discarding the solids and storing the tincture in a cool dark place.

15. Ceanothus americanus

New Jersey tea tinctures helps with constipation because of its natural properties that promote digestive health.

The herb's anthelmintic and anti-inflammatory compounds help to soothe and calm the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with constipation. Additionally, New Jersey tea contains antioxidants that aid in the absorption of nutrients and water, softening stool and facilitating regular bowel movements.

By supporting healthy digestion, New Jersey tea tinctures can help to alleviate symptoms of constipation and promote overall gastrointestinal well-being.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in new jersey tea tinctures that aid with constipation.

The list below shows the primary parts of new jersey tea used to make tinctures for constipation.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic new jersey tea for constipation.

  1. Harvest high-quality ceanothus americanus leaves and stems in the early morning when they are at their peak potency.
  2. Clean and dry the harvested material by gently blowing off any debris and placing it in a warm oven for 30 minutes.
  3. Chop the dried plant material into small pieces to increase its surface area and facilitate extraction.
  4. Combine one part ceanothus americanus with two parts vodka or high-proof grain alcohol in a clean glass jar, and seal tightly to allow maceration.
  5. Allow the mixture to steep for six weeks, shaking the jar daily, before straining and filtering the tincture using cheesecloth or coffee filters.

16. Asclepias syriaca

Milkweed tinctures helps with constipation because they contain a unique combination of compounds that stimulate digestion and relieve digestive discomfort.

The tannins in milkweed tincture help to reduce inflammation in the gut, while the saponins act as natural laxatives, increasing bowel movement frequency and regularity.

Additionally, the antioxidants present in milkweed tincture soothe the lining of the intestines, reducing spasms and cramping associated with constipation.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in milkweed tinctures that aid with constipation.

The list below shows the primary parts of milkweed used to make tinctures for constipation.

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

  1. Harvest fresh or dried asclepias syriaca flowers and leaves from a trusted source weighing approximately one pound.
  2. Combine harvested plant material with high-proof vodka or grain alcohol in a clean glass jar at a ratio of one part plant to three parts solvent.
  3. Store the mixture in a cool dark place for four to six weeks allowing for maceration and solubilization of active compounds.
  4. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass container discarding the solids and retaining only the liquid extract.
  5. Transfer the extracted tincture to amber glass bottles with tight-fitting lids and store in a cool dark place for up to two years ensuring maximum potency and shelf life.

17. Malva sylvestris

Mallow tinctures helps with constipation because they contain mucilages that help soothe and protect the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and discomfort.

The herb's gentle demulcent properties create a protective barrier in the gut, allowing food to move more easily through the digestive system and relieving symptoms of constipation such as bloating and straining.

Additionally, mallow's anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce muscle spasms that can contribute to constipation, promoting regular bowel movements and improved overall digestive health.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in mallow tinctures that aid with constipation.

The list below shows the primary parts of mallow used to make tinctures for constipation.

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

  1. Harvest malva sylvestris leaves and flowers in the morning after dew has dried off the plants, ensuring at least 2 cups of fresh material.
  2. Chop the fresh malva sylvestris plant material into small pieces, weighing approximately 1 part by weight, and set it aside for maceration.
  3. Combine one part chopped malva sylvestris with three parts high-proof vodka in a clean glass jar, ensuring the plant material is completely submerged.
  4. Store the mixture in a cool dark place, allowing it to steep for at least 6 weeks, shaking the jar daily to facilitate extraction.
  5. After the steeping period, strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another glass container, discarding the solids and storing the tincture in a cool dark place.

How to best treat constipation with herbal tinctures?

The best way to treat constipation with herbal tinctures is by combining specific herbs that stimulate bowel movement, reduce inflammation, and improve digestion.

A blend of senna, cascara sagrada, and slippery elm promotes regularity, while peppermint and ginger soothe the digestive tract and alleviate discomfort.

Take 10-15 drops of the tincture three times a day with water or food for optimal results.

What ailments similar to constipation are treated with herbal tinctures?

Ailments similar to constipation that are treated with herbal tinctures are irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), diverticulitis, and hemorrhoids.

Certain herbs like slippery elm, marshmallow root, and licorice root help soothe and calm the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and discomfort. Other herbs like peppermint, ginger, and turmeric may also be used to alleviate symptoms of IBS, such as bloating and abdominal pain.

These herbal tinctures can be used in combination with conventional treatments for effective relief from these gastrointestinal issues.