Homeopathy
Seek a homeopath's advice. "Used in conjunction with diet and lifestyle changes, homeopathic medicines provide an extra little push in relieving constipation," says homeopath Dana Ullman. Among the medicines he prescribes are Bryonia, as a stool softener; Calcarea carbonica, for those who don't feel the urge to go; and Nux vomica, for those who feel the urge but don't pass anything. Which medicine will work best for you depends on your individual symptoms.
Chinese Medicine
Stick to spicy stimulators. Among practitioners of Chinese medicine, it is thought that constipation develops when there is an imbalance in the Large Intestine and Stomach organ systems, according to Efrem Korngold, O.M.D., L.Ac.
When treating patients who have constipation, practitioners of Chinese medicine often prescribe spicy foods to stimulate peristalsis. These foods include ginger, radishes, orange peel, persimmons, and rhubarb. In cases of mild constipation associated with indigestion or a cold, practitioners may also prescribe Curing Pills, which contain 15 different herbs.
Point a finger at the problem. Acupressure has proved effective in stimulating a balky bowel. Michael Reed Gach, founder and director of the Acupressure Institute, recommends applying steady, penetrating finger pressure to each of the following points for 3 minutes.
Large Intestine 11, located at the outer end of your elbow crease on the thumb side
Large Intestine 4, located on the back of your hand where the bones of your thumb and index finger meet
Conception Vessel 6, located three finger-widths directly below your navel
Stomach 25, located four finger-widths to either side of your navel
Stomach 36, located four finger-widths below your kneecap and one fingerwidth toward the outside of your shinbone
If acupressure doesn't provide relief from constipation, consult an acupuncturist instead. Frequently, needle stimulation by a professional works when finger pressure doesn't.
Read out for First aid. Check out breastfeeding tops and constipation treatment