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Constipation is irregular and difficult bowel movement, which can cause abdominal cramping, pain and problems with nutrient absorption. There are numerous causes of constipation, which include low fiber diet, infrequent toilet habits, dehydration, unhealthy food choices, a sedentary lifestyle or excessive stress. It can also be a symptom of a physical obstruction or serious disease. Dealing with these health imbalances is vital, yet certain herbs such as Damiana herb for constipation can change characteristics of the feces and stimulate peristaltic movement resulting to relief and defecation.
Taking Damiana herb for constipation can cause relief due to its laxative properties. A laxative is an agent that acts to induce bowel movement, and is thus used to treat constipation. Natural laxatives may act by stimulating peristaltic movement through lubrication of the intestinal walls, irritation of the intestinal lining, softening the bowel by raising the water content in the intestine, and enhancing bulk content in the bowel. The laxative property of Damiana cannot be properly explained, but some research suggests Damiana sharing the same laxative qualities as parsley. The essential oil extract may cause irritation to the mucous membranes, promoting secretion of digestive enzymes and juices. This then leads to the downward movement of the feces into the colon, thereby curing constipation. It may also be the answer for its health qualities as a blood purifier, diuretic, expectorant and laxative.
Chronic constipation commonly suggests a sluggish digestion, which can be relieved by ingestion of bitter herbs. Bitter herbs can stimulate the liver and activate the production of digestive juices. Damiana herb has a slight bitter taste due to its alkaloids and volatile oil content. The presence of the bitter-tasting components in Damiana on your tongue triggers the reflexes to your brains that set off bowel activity. Bitter agents increase the production of bile in your intestine, which can further encourage bowel movement. Bile is the body’s own natural laxative. Many waste products in the body are removed from the body by the secretion of bile and eliminated in feces. Bitter herbs such as Damiana can effectively improve digestion and aid in constipation.
Consumption of Damiana leaves can greatly help in stimulating bowel movement due to its laxative property yet taking it in large amounts may cause stronger laxative action. The use of extremely high dosages of Damiana may also cause the feces to loosen considerably, resulting to diarrhea.
Causes of constipation may vary, ranging in different factors. Cases such as irritable bowel syndrome, hypothyroidism or intestinal masses may need medical attention. However, many cases such as those owed to a sedentary lifestyle, change in diet or reduced fluid intake are benign and can be prevented. Constipation is commonly a short-term disorder that can be treated using simple measures. For chronic constipation, it is important to understand how this occurs. You should not rely on herbs such as Damiana herb for constipation to maintain regular bowel function without consulting your doctor. Moreover, there are natural ways to prevent constipation such as intake of food high in fiber, regular exercise and drinking plenty of water, which can retrain the gut so that normal bowel movement returns.
