A laxative syrup is the most recommended solution for constipation, IBS and piles.

We’ve written this article to help you pick an effective laxative syrup for your condition.

Note: We don’t recommend any laxative syrups, we recommend natural alternatives like spices or Kalmegh Bitters.

What is a laxative syrup? 

It is a concoction made up of synthetic sugar (and occasionally fiber) that is used to treat constipation.

There are four categories of a laxative syrup.

Bulk Laxatives

Bulk laxatives contain fiber and hydrophilic agents that add bulk and water to stools.

This makes the stool pass more easily through the intestines. 

Examples include psyllium husk or Isabgol, inulin and wheat dextrin (used in OTC products like Metamucil® and Benefibre®).

Stimulant Laxative

These cause the intestine to contract (push) so your bowels move.

Stimulant laxatives are known to irritate intestinal cells.

Examples include senna cascara and bisacodyl (such as Dulcolax®, Correctol®).

Osmotic Laxatives

This type of laxative helps treat constipation using the mechanism of osmosis. 

This means it pulls water from your body into your stool to make your stool easier to pass.

Some examples of osmotic laxatives include polyethylene glycol 3350 (Miralax®). 

Stool Softeners

Stool softeners work by softening stools to make them easier to pass. 

Common stool softeners include magnesium hydroxide (Phillips’ Milk of Magnesia), magnesium citrate and lactitol (Pizensy).

Which laxative syrup should I choose?

There are an overwhelming amount of choices available.

You should pick a laxative syrup based on your type of digestive problem.  

If you are suffering from piles, consider a stool softener.

If you are suffering from constipation, consider a stimulant laxative.

If you are suffering from IBS, consider osmotic laxatives or stimulant laxatives.

If you are suffering from Hemorrhoids, consider bulk-forming laxatives or stool softeners.

If you are suffering from anal fissures, consider osmotic laxatives or stool softeners.

How fast do laxative syrups work?

Chemical inducted laxatives are designed to provide you with immediate (and unsustable) results. 

Average action time of them are as follows:

• Bulk laxatives : 12-24 hours
• Stimulant laxatives: 6-12 hours 
• Osmotic laxatives: 30 minutes – 3 hours
• Stool softener: 12-72 hours

Quick action, along with immediate results sounds too good to be true right? Well, news, it isn’t. 

What is the side effect of laxative?

Laxatives usually come with a bunch of side effects, which include:

1. Bloating
2. Dehydration
3. Rectal bleeding
4. Hormonal imbalance
5. Severe cramps or pain
6. Weakness or unusual tiredness.
7. Dizziness
8. Confusion
9. Skin rash or itching
10. Swallowing difficulty

Let’s compare the top 5 laxatives in the market. 

Duphalac vs. Cremaffin vs. Looz vs. Lactulose vs. Movicol

An alternative to laxative syrup

Spices are a natural alternative to laxatives.

Spices. Yes. 

These are sustainable, much cheaper and a better option to treat your digestive issues. 

Pros

• Easily accessible
• Chemical free 
• Minimal to no side effects
• Long term effects
• Sustainable
• Budget friendly
• Indian mother approved

Cons

• Takes persistence and regular practice

Try these spices, and you’ll never need a laxative syrup again:

• Ginger
• Peppermint
• Asafoetida
• Psyllium

Think about it. 

Switch to organic routes to treat your problems. 

Start with a better tomorrow, today! 

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I take a laxative syrup?

Laxatives work best on empty stomach. These yield faster results due to the lack of any food particles in the stomach. 

If you have been facing symptoms of

• Irregular bowel movements
• Hard stools
• Difficulty while defecation

Then you must take laxatives in the morning on an empty stomach for best results. 

What is a good natural laxative?

Good natural laxatives can include any whole foods with high fibre and antioxidant content. Some examples are:

• Prunes
• Soaked fenugreek seeds
• Aloe vera
• Chia seeds 
• Apple 
• Psyllium