Hard stool is often a sign of constipation, which can be caused by medical conditions as well as a lack of nutrients within the symptom. While constipation is the main reason for hard stool, other causes can include irritable bowel syndrome, congenital megacolon, as well as dehydration. Hard stool can not only cause discomfort, but if the stool is not moved from the system, the colon will become impacted. Natural herbs can be used as an alternative to synthetic medications to soften stool and relieve constipation.
Psyllium Husk
Due to psyllium's effectiveness is treating constipation and increasing bowel movements, laxative drinks such as Metamucil, utilize this herb as the main active ingredient. One of the active ingredients within psyllium is mucilage, which directly affects the intestine's ability to move feces. When psyllium is introduced into the intestines, the mucilage turns into a gel-like substance, which softens existing stool and stimulates the intestines.
To soften stool and maintain bowel regularities, consume one teaspoon of dried psyllium husk in eight ounces of water three times per day. It is essential to drink at least ten eight-ounce glasses of water per day to ensure that the psyllium easily moves throughout the intestines. Failure to do so can cause a blockage within the intestines, which can quickly develop into a serious condition. Before consuming psyllium, consult your physician to ensure its safety, especially for those who have gastrointestinal issues or those who have undergone stomach/intestinal surgery.
Aloe Vera Juice
According to The Mayo Clinic, aloe vera contains properties that when ingested act as a natural laxative. Aloe vera, or aloe latex, contains anthroquinone glycosides, which when introduced in the body act as a stool softener and mild laxative. Anthroquinone increases colon contractions, which are vital for the movement of fecal matter. By enhancing these contractions, stool is able to be pushed throughout the system in a timely manner, keeping the stool from becoming stagnant and hard.
While human testing has not been performed to ensure the effectiveness of Aloe Vera juice for constipation or hard stool, it is still commonly used to treat both conditions. Before beginning treatment with Aloe Vera juice, consult your physician to ensure its safety. It should not be used for persons under the age of 18, or for pregnant and nursing women, without consent from a medial professional.
For use as a treatment to soften stool and to relieve constipation, drink half-a-cup of Aloe Vera juice first thing in morning followed by eight ounces of water. Consume this juice twice per day, in the morning and before bed, every day to maintain soft stool and to relieve discomfort caused by constipation.
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