Throughout human history and the health industry as a whole, one problem that has persisted century after century is the classic case of constipation.
Although we are now living in modern times, in terms of both lifestyle and living conditions around the world, constipation continues to affect millions of children and adults globally every day. Often recognized for the sheer difficulty or inability to empty the bowel, constipation has established its seriousness as a condition because of its associated hardening of feces, which can escalate to a more severe condition when left untreated.
A holistic approach to helping with constipation and what causes the condition
There may be many different ways to help with constipation, but the Ayurvedic approach has received wide interest in recent years for its gentle, natural support.
According to the principles of Ayurveda, constipation itself is a result of indigestion that eventually results in an accumulation of feces in the intestine and a production of an air element called Vata. Once this Vata starts to build up, its dry and cold properties pose a barrier to the regular functioning of the colon and foster a sensation of stomach pain and heaviness. This then results in the agonizing symptoms of constipation itself.
Fortunately, Ayurvedic teachings have recognized the main propagators of constipation to two factors that can be helped, namely: lifestyle-related matters and water intake (or a lack thereof).
Supporting regularity with Ayurvedic tools
If you’re looking for natural ways to support regular, healthy elimination, here are three Ayurvedic practices you can start following and implementing:
1. Switch up your diet
Commonly recognized as one of the core practices of Ayurveda, following a balanced diet is not only an integral component to better holistic maintenance, but it’s also a staple for supporting regular elimination and digestive comfort. By making key changes to your diet, you can support regular elimination and digestive comfort by providing your body with the nutrients that it needs for an easy exit. For instance, swapping out cold food and drinks, beans, dried fruits, and salads for a vata-pacifying diet that’s comprised of warm foods and well-cooked veggies can help reduce the stress on the colon!
2. Take a tablespoon of ghee at bedtime
For occasional sluggish digestion, what the body often needs to support smooth elimination is proper lubrication, which can often be found in a staple of Ayurvedic medicine: ghee!
Through a helpful serving of ghee right before bedtime for as long as needed, you’ll be able to help smoothen out the passage of your stool. If you aren’t exactly a fan of ghee’s flavor, however, you can also opt for a teaspoon of olive or coconut oil or mix the ghee itself with a warm glass of milk!
3. Go for Triphala
Commonly regarded as the Ayurvedic teaching’s staple for digestive regularity, a recommended serving of Triphala supports regular, healthy elimination and digestive comfort. If you seek a simple Ayurvedic practice for digestive comfort, grind and have a quarter teaspoon each of Triphala, cardamom, and coriander seeds twice a day.
Conclusion
With the help of Ayurveda’s natural teachings and remedies, you can support regular, healthy elimination and help your body return to its natural rhythm. By following the three time-honored Ayurvedic techniques mentioned in this article, you can support your digestive comfort naturally.