Constipation is characterised by fewer bowel movements, dry or hard stools, and a feeling of incomplete evacuation. It can affect people of all ages and genders. One in five Indian adults reportedly suffers from constipation.
Common causes include dietary habits such as consuming refined flour and processed foods while eating too little fibre, inadequate water intake, certain medications, and lifestyle factors such as physical inactivity, stress and lack of exercise. Ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement can also contribute to the problem.
According to Ayurveda, constipation is associated with a Vata imbalance and blockage of the body's channels. Simple Ayurvedic remedies and lifestyle changes may help manage occasional constipation, while persistent or chronic constipation should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Baba Ramdev says, “The key is to chew your food thoroughly. Eat a small fruit salad containing pomegranate, papaya, apple, guava, tomato and cucumber before your main meal; maintain this sequence and chew well. Save heavier food for the end of the meal.”
Read on for the ingredients suggested by Baba Ramdev that may help ease constipation, along with Patanjali products that can support digestive health.
Ayurvedic Ingredients to Treat Constipation
Bitter Gourd: Baba Ramdev suggests bitter gourd juice for those experiencing constipation, as it may help support bowel movements. “If severe, drink the juice of two bitter gourds,” he says. Bitter gourd, or karela, contains fibre and is traditionally used to support digestion. Patanjali Karela Amla Juice (500 Ml) combines karela and amla and helps support digestive health. It is also promoted for supporting blood sugar management and overall cleansing.
Wild cucumber or melon (Kachri): Baba Ramdev recommends consuming kachri chutney regularly, describing it as beneficial for clearing waste from the digestive system. He also recommends consuming its seeds, saying they can have a laxative effect. When ripe, kachri becomes sweeter and develops a distinctive aroma. It can be eaten directly, with the seeds consumed along with the fruit.
Pear: Pears are a good source of dietary fibre, which can help add bulk to stools and support regular bowel movements. Their water content can also help keep stools softer. For maximum fibre, consume pears with the skin after washing them thoroughly.
Apple: Apples, particularly when eaten with the skin, provide both water and dietary fibre. They contain pectin, a soluble fibre that supports digestive health, as well as insoluble fibre that adds bulk to stool. Apples also contain sorbitol, a naturally occurring sugar alcohol that can have a mild laxative effect. Patanjali Apple Vinegar (500 ml), made from fermented apples, is a digestive health product and is promoted by Patanjali for supporting digestion and overall wellness.
Papaya: Papaya may help ease mild constipation because of its water and dietary fibre content. Its high water content helps support hydration, while fibre adds bulk to stool and promotes regular bowel movements. Papaya also contains the digestive enzyme papain, which aids the digestion of proteins.
Baba Ramdev suggests several Patanjali Ayurvedic products that may help support digestive health and ease constipation.
Divya Shuddhi Churna (50 Gms and 100 Gms) contains ingredients such as harad, baheda, bhumi amla, jeera, hing and indrayan. It is marketed to support bowel movements and digestion, and may also help with digestive discomfort such as gas, acidity and bloating.
Another option is Divya Triphala Churna (100 Gms), which contains the traditional Ayurvedic combination of three fruits. It helps regulate bowel movements and digestive health, and is traditionally used to help ease constipation.
Divya Haritaki Churna (100 Gms) is another Ayurvedic formulation traditionally used to support digestion and bowel regularity. Haritaki is traditionally regarded as having mild laxative properties and is commonly used in Ayurveda to help manage constipation.
Constipation can be uncomfortable, but dietary and lifestyle changes, along with appropriate Ayurvedic approaches, may help manage occasional symptoms. Baba Ramdev, co-founder of Patanjali Ayurved, also recommends mindful eating and other dietary practices to support digestive health. Persistent or recurrent constipation, however, should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
