Constipation is one of the most common gastrointestinal complaints in the United States, resulting in about 2 million doctor visits annually. The most common cause of constipation is an incorrect diet, Constipation can lead to a build up of toxins, which can cause numerous health problems. Constipation and digestive distress are common side effects of iron supplements. A spoonful of molasses with 10-15 drops of yellow dock root tincture in a glass of warm water is a better way to increase iron and improve elimination.³

Strong herbal laxatives : Aloes or drug aloe, made from the juice of the dried inner leaves, is a very strong laxative, and is not as widely used as it once was because of the herbs extreme purgative action. Dried, aged cascara sagrada bark is often prescribed for chronic constipation. The bark contains compounds called anthraquinones that are used in commercial laxative preparations.¹

Herbal Fiber : Flax seed lubricates the digestive tract, a safe but efficient intestinal cleanser that provides fiber. Flax seed should not be used for extended periods of time and adequate water must be taken with it. Psyllium is traditionally used to treat constipation, the seed husks of P. psyllium provide fiber for a laxative effect. Psyllium is a common ingredient in commercial fiber supplements. ²

Using Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy can reduce the stress and tension that are sometimes an underlying cause, or effect of constipation. Use this blend as an abdominal massage

1. * Marjoram ............... 6 drops
2. * Rosemary................ 6 drops
3. * Black Pepper or fennel.. 3 drops

* Carrier oil 1 ounce (2 tablespoons)

Herbs Used for Constipation

Aloe * Butternut * Cascara Sagrada * Chickweed * Flax * Hemp/Cannabis * Psyllium * Yellow Dock *

Agrimony For: Diarrhea, Constipation
Profile	While agrimony is an effective treatment for many forms of diarrhea, it can aggravate constipation. The tannins in agrimony cause pectin fibers to cross-link and bind. Blockage can result if you take agrimony at the same time as psyllium powders, such as Metamucil. Phyllis A. Balch, Prescription for Herbal Healing (2002)

Asparagus For: Laxative
Profile	The virtues of Asparagus are well known as a diuretic and laxative Maud Grieve, Modern Herbal Vol 1 (1931)

Butternut Bark For: Intestinal Parasites
Profile	Butternut is a mild cathartic like rhubarb; it does not constipate and is often used as a habitual laxative, also for dysentery and hypatic congestions. It has been employed as a vermifuge and is recommended for syphilis and old ulcers. The expressed oil of the fruit removes tapeworm. Maud Grieve, Modern Herbal Volume 2 (1931)

Cascara sagrada For: Constipation
Profile	Chemicals called anthraquinones are responsible for cascara sagrada's purgative effect. James Duke, The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook (2000)

Cascara sagrada For: Laxative, chronic constipation
Profile	Cascara Sagrada is a mild laxative, acting principally on the large intestine. It is considered suitable for delicate and elderly persons, and may with advantage be given in chronic constipation, being generally administered in the form of the fluid extract. Maud Grieve, Modern Herbal Vol 1 (1931)

Chickweed For: Laxative
Profile	Chickweed is a mild and gentle laxative

Flax seed For: Intestinal cleanser
Profile	Ground seed lubricates the digestive tract, a safe but efficient intestinal cleanser that provides fiber Flax seed should not be used for extended periods of time and adequate water must be taken with it.

Hemp seed tea For: Menopause- constipation
Profile	Crushed hemp seed (Cannabis sativa) tea -rich in essential fatty acids - is a specific against menopausal constipation.

Constipation Information

• Digestion/Indigestion :
  Bitter herbs are unrivaled stomach tonics. They improve the appetite, promoting digestive juices, peristalsis and the flow of bile.
• Diarrhea :
  There are many time-honored herbal treatments for common diarrhea, that can in fact be just as helpful, if not more than many over-the counter remedies.
• IBS :
  Herbs and spices when used in preparation of a healthy diet can help maintain good digestion, lessening IBS symptoms.
• Nausea :
  Learn how to use natural herbs and spices to curb nausea and upset stomach.
• Parasites/Worms :
  Herbs are often used in intestinal cleansing and anti-parasite support.
• Culinary :
  Herbs can be thought of as food, medicine, or better yet food pharmacy. They add micro nutrients and vitamins, digestive enzymes and great taste to any meal.