By – Mr Vikas Chwla, Founder & Director, Vedas Cure
Constipation in India: Prevalence, Causes, and Ayurvedic Perspective
More than 20% of the adult population in India suffers from constipation. People who have less than three bowel movements in a week and face difficulties in stool passing are going through such problems. Having low-fiber foods, physical inactivity, and drinking less water are common causes of constipation. Ayurveda defines it as ‘Vata Dosha,’ which has a cold and dry nature responsible for the movement and elimination of waste from the human body. In Ayurvedic science, when there is an imbalance in this functioning, it causes ‘Vibandha’ or constipation.
It recommends lifestyle changes to treat these issues and improves metabolism. So here are 5 Ayurvedic tips that people generally do not know about curing Constipation.
Use of Herbal Formulations and Capsules
Herbal formulations and capsules are a panacea for constipation problems. This is substantiated by the ancient Ayurvedic literature, which reflects that even in pre-modern ages, constipation problems were treated by making a concoction of medicinal herbs and given to patients. Nowadays, the availability of herbal capsules has provided immense long-term relief to patients by attacking the root cause of the problem instead of giving just a temporary respite. These capsules contain herbs like Triphala, Ashwagandha, Sukumara Ghrita, Dashamula, Abhayarishta, Haritaki, Isabgol, Patola, etc.
Diet Changes are non-negotiable
Green Leafy vegetables should be preferred over non-healthy snacks and junk food for people suffering from constipation. Fiber-rich foods like wheat, green gram, and fruits such as apples, bananas, guavas, figs, and oranges should be a part of the daily diet. Fried and spicy food should be avoided, and warm water and soups should be consumed.
Consume Natural Laxatives
Constipation patients should choose to have natural laxatives over chemical laxatives. It facilitates a fast cure, like having roasted fennel seeds with warm water leads to improvement in bowel movements. Other natural laxatives like chia seeds, prunes, berries, legumes, and kefir have many healing properties and should be consumed to cure constipation.
Be Physically Active
Ayurveda specialists recommend many yoga poses as a remedy to constipation, like Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose), Trikonasana (Triangle Pose), Viparita Karani (Upside down Pose), Pavanamuktasana (Wind relieving pose), Shalabasana (Locust Pose) and Ardhamatsyendrasana (Half spinal twist pose). It helps to correct stomach imbalances and aids the smooth passage of stools. Practicing yoga poses also prevents bloating and gas.
Trying Massages
Massages like Abhyanga are an excellent option for curing imbalances. It helps in body relaxation and toxin release as well.
