Constipation is a common disorder affecting many people. It is described as difficulty in emptying the bowels. This can occur for several reasons:
- Slow or impaired movement of bowels
- Dryness of bowels
- Obstruction of bowels
1. Slow or Impaired Movement of Bowels
Constipation due to slow movement is usually a result of poor circulation due to insufficient movement. It can also be caused by coldness in the abdomen. We can treat this with moving and warming.
How to treat:
- Do some weightless squats or lunges to bring energy downward, then some abdominal stretches
- Make a downward motion massage of the abdomen for about 5 minutes
- Drink warm Bitter Orange tea
Squats help draw blood and energy downwards to assist in bowel movement.
Bitter Orange is used in Chinese medicine to promote physiological movement in the gastrointestinal tract.
2. Dryness of Bowels
Constipation due to dried intestines is usually caused by insufficient fluid intake. The best solution is to drink some water. However, it can also be caused by reduced fluid metabolism.
How to treat:
- Make circular motion massage of the abdomen for about 5 minutes
- Drink room temperature water
- Eat a ripe peach or apricot with a handful of walnuts
Peaches and many fruits are able to moisten the body.
Nuts contain many fats that can moisten and nourish the body.
3. Obstruction of the Bowels
Obstruction is usually caused by stools accumulation into a blockage. If at this point the problem has not resolved, the problem has become severe and requires the use of stronger medicinal substances and/or procedures. Proper consultation and direction by a qualified Chinese medicine provider is highly recommended in these cases.
