Herbal teas to neutralize constipation

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Extract from the article: In Africa, 30% of the population suffer from constipation at some time. Constipation is a slowing down of intestinal transit, leading to abnormally infrequent bowel movements. « Constipation is defined as a number of bowel movements less than or equa

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In Africa, 30% of the population suffer from constipation at some time. Constipation is a slowing down of intestinal transit, leading to abnormally infrequent bowel movements. « Constipation is defined as a number of bowel movements less than or equal to three per week, or hard stools that are difficult to evacuate. It is qualified as chronic when it lasts more than six months », says the French National Gastroenteritis Society (SNFGE). While it's important to seek medical advice when the condition persists, certain natural beverages can provide relief and help the digestive system return to optimum function.

The classic risks of constipation include gas, bloating, abdominal pain and irritation. But it can also have more serious consequences, such as anal fissure or hemorrhoidal prolapse. Constipation also has other effects on the body, which we don't always think about. It can be a source of migraines, contribute to the development of bad breath, be associated with weight gain, prevent sleep and have an impact on mood and concentration.

Water

If your bowels seem to have come to a standstill and you feel bloated, you need to drink a glass of water.The first line of defense in relieving acute or chronic constipation is adequate hydration with water.  What's more, water improves the effectiveness of the dietary fiber that retains it. Drink at least 1.5 liters a day.

Senna

Senna leaves (in Ewé, « Agoègbé ») are reserved for occasional constipation.Their irritating action on the intestine requires special precautions.Senna should only be used on the advice of a phytotherapist.  The leaves contain active principles, including natural derivatives with laxative properties, which increase the peristaltic movements of the colon and promote the action of intestinal flora during transit. It is sometimes used to cleanse the intestines, particularly the colon. It's also beneficial in cases of hemorrhoids, as soft stools are easier to defecate than hard ones, which can be painful.

Recipe: Heat water without boiling, add 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried senna leaves and infuse in hot water for 10 minutes, then strain. It is generally advisable to drink one infusion a day, usually in the evening before going to bed, or one glass in the morning and one in the evening.This cure should be brief and punctual, and should not exceed 8 days. If no effect is observed after 4 days, consult a doctor immediately.  This treatment is not recommended for children under 12, or during pregnancy or breast-feeding. The most common side effects are abdominal pain and profuse diarrhoea.

Dandelion root

This Ewe « Agnoto" plant has a mild laxative effect that helps improve intestinal movement for optimal elimination.  Infusing dandelion root stimulates muscular contractions in the digestive system, facilitating intestinal movement.

Recipe: Dry dandelion root and place 8 to 10 slices in a bowl of hot water.Drink 2 to 3 cups a day.Drink a cup of infusion 2 hours before bedtime.

Peppermint

Rich in menthol and menthone, peppermint essential oil can be used in cases of occasional constipation to boost digestion and ease abdominal pain.Peppermint tea has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help relieve an irritated digestive system and promote intestinal transit.

Recipe: 1 small bunch of fresh mint leaves, 1 piece of fresh ginger or a teaspoon of powdered ginger, 4 cups of water (1 liter), and honey.To prepare this stimulating drink, simply blend the ingredients with water and filter the drink.Sweeten with honey. This drink can be consumed warm or hot between meals, especially on an empty stomach. Eat a diet rich in fruit and vegetables.

Ginger

Stimulates intestinal motility.This helps expel intestinal gas and flatulence, and reduces the bloating that accompanies constipation.

Recipe: 5 medium carrots, juice of 3 oranges, 1 teaspoon grated ginger, ½ teaspoon turmeric, 2 tablespoons honey. Peel the carrots and make a natural juice using an extractor.Pour the juice into a blender with the orange juice, ginger and, if you like, turmeric.Blend until all ingredients are well blended.Sweeten with a few tablespoons of honey and serve. Drink the juice on an empty stomach. Add it to your diet at least 3 times a week.

Green tea

In addition to hydrating the body, green tea also helps regulate colon function. The catechins present in green tea have antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which strengthen the « good » bacteria in the intestine and combat the « bad » ones. This maintains intestinal health and prevents the onset of intestinal infections and inflammatory bowel disease.

Recipe: 1 cup water; 1 teaspoon green tea; 1/2 lemon (optional). Bring the water to the boil in a saucepan or kettle, add the green tea leaves and turn off the heat.Cover the pot or kettle and leave to stand for 10 minutes. Strain and add lemon juice. Drink lukewarm. Drink 2 cups of green tea a day between meals.

Tips

It's important to support constipation problems, in particular by adopting a high-fiber diet, drinking enough water, chewing sufficiently during meals, exercising regularly and avoiding putting off the need to go to the toilet.  If constipation persists or worsens, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and appropriate treatment. 

William O.