Treat Chronic Constipation​ with Traditional Kerala Ayurveda

Here’s how Ayurveda tackles this common yet uncomfortable issue:

Understanding Chronic Constipation in Ayurveda:

• Dosha Imbalance: According to Ayurveda, chronic constipation results from an imbalance in the doshas, particularly Vata (movement, communication) and Kapha (structure, stability). Low Vata activity leads to sluggish bowel movement, while excess Kapha contributes to dry stools and difficulty in elimination.
• Agni Imbalance: Weak Agni (digestive fire) hinders proper digestion and breakdown of food, leading to the formation of ama (toxic build-up) in the intestines, further disrupting bowel movements.

Treatment Strategies:

1. Panchakarma: This five-fold detoxification process helps address ama build-up and restore doshic balance. Therapies like Virechana (purgation) and Basti (medicated enemas) can be beneficial depending on the specific doshic imbalance.

2. Rasayana: Rejuvenation therapies with herbs like Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), Triphala (mixture of three fruits), and Yavakshara (alkaline extract of barley) help stimulate digestion, soften stools, and improve bowel movement regularity.

3. Dietary and Lifestyle Modifications: A balanced diet rich in fibre, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is crucial. Incorporating ghee, spices like ginger and fennel, and warm water can help stimulate digestion and soften stools. Limiting processed foods, refined carbohydrates, and dairy products is recommended. Regular exercise suited to individual capacity, gentle yoga postures like Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose) Marjarasana (Cat Pose), and pranayama (breathing exercises) promote intestinal movement and reduce stress.