Exploration of Herbs to Overcome Constipation

Abstract

Constipation is a prevalent functional gastrointestinal disorder, and issues of side effects and habituation to traditional laxatives have revitalized interest in alternative treatments. The current study was conducted to assess the clinical effectiveness, safety profiles, and pharmacological mechanisms of five herbal agents: senna, psyllium, Triphala, aloe vera, and rhubarb, that are frequently employed in treating constipation. A systematic narrative synthesis of peer-reviewed clinical trials, pharmacodynamic studies, and phytochemical reports was performed to evaluate bowel movement outcomes, side effects, dosage ranges, and mechanisms of action. Results showed that all five herbs significantly enhanced stool frequency, with senna showing the greatest short-term efficacy, whereas psyllium and Triphala provided more sustained and well-tolerated effects appropriate for chronic use. Aloe vera and rhubarb were moderately effective but had greater frequencies of mild gastrointestinal distress. Mechanistically, senna and rhubarb stimulant herbs impacted colonic motility, whereas psyllium and Triphala affected bulk-forming, antioxidant, and microbiota-modulating mechanisms. Safety profiles also differed accordingly, with bulk-forming agents being better tolerated. This study emphasizes the therapeutic significance of specific herbal agents and recommends their evidence-based integration into integrative constipation management. Additional standardized trials would be required to maximize formulations and develop clinical guidelines in various populations of patients.