AYURVEDA PERSPECTIVE ON CONSTIPATION

The importance of healthy elimination in Ayurveda is summarized by the phrase "You are as healthy as your colon." Poor bowel health results in fermentation of fecal matter, which irritates and ultimately degrades the lining of the intestines. Fermentation also creates toxins that are absorbed into the blood. Daily evacuation of stool prevents a cascade of potential health problems.

Constipation by Constitution

In hot Pitta constipation, the stools are smelly and sticky. It may come out in pieces and be difficult to clean. This is due to an excess of hot, oily foods your diet. Fried food and red meat in particular are culprits - they are hard to digest, therefore taking a long time, and create excess oil in your stool while heat dries out the water. What remains is sticky, somewhat dry, and difficult to pass. You may feel incomplete after visiting the bathroom.

Kapha constipation consists of large, infrequent bowel movements. This is due to a lack of mobility in the colon, resulting in sluggish bowels. When there is finally enough energy to stimulate peristalsis (the wave-like motion of your intestines which expels stool) the result is a large quantity. This slow metabolic rate may be associated with depression and hypothyroid.

Treatment by Type

Vata type constipation is sometimes remedied by gentle, nourishing laxatives like milk with ghee or marshmallow tea, as well as calming herbs like ashwagandha and kava kava. Nourishing, sweet, oily foods like sweet potatoes with ghee, oatmeal, cooked apples and pears all encourage smooth elimination in Vata types.

Hot, sticky Pitta constipation requires cool, soothing herbs and foods to reduce inflammation and encourage hydration. A favorite Ayurvedic herb that fits the bill is amalaki, one component of the famous colon detoxifyer- triphala. Aloe vera juice or gel cools down your digestive tract while helping to hydrate your intestines. Drink plenty of coconut water, too.

Kapha constipation is caused by poor bowel tone, a complication of hypothyroid. Sluggish Kapha type constipation requires bitter greens, roughage and fiber in the diet to keep the bowels clean and moving. Taking mild laxatives, like triphala, gently scrape your colon clean and keep you regular.

Stimulant laxatives like senna and castor oil are a last resort, and not to be used without guidance of your health practitioner.

Images of Constipation