Laxatives: What They Do, Types, Benefits & How to Use Safely

Introduction

We all feel uncomfortable when our stomach doesn’t feel right, especially when we can’t pass stool easily. Constipation is more common than you think and can happen to anyone from kids to grandparents. And that’s where laxatives come in. But exactly what are laxatives? Are they safe? And are natural options obtainable?

In this article, find out everything about laxatives, what they do, the different types there are, how to use them safely, and naturally manage constipation effectively.

What Are Laxatives?

Laxatives are substances that promote bowel movements or ease the passage of stool. They include a broad range of over-the-counter medicines, prescription drugs, nutritional supplements, and natural foods. Laxatives are used for such reasons as:

• Short-term constipation

• Medical logistics (e.g., preparation for colonoscopy)

• In certain chronic diseases, under professional guidance

Key principle: Only use laxatives as directed and seek professional advice if symptoms persist.

Who Needs Laxatives?

• Occasional or chronic constipation not relieved by lifestyle changes

• Medication-induced constipation (e.g., opioids, certain antidepressants, iron supplements)

• Digestive conditions (such as IBS) under medical supervision

• Preparation for medical tests or surgeries

• Poor diet (low fiber, too much junk food)

• Stress

• Side effects of some medications

Risk Groups:

Elderly people: digestion slows with age

Post-surgery patients: movement and diet are restricted

Pregnant women: hormonal changes and pressure on the bowels

Warning: Routine or long-term use without clinical advice can be risky—especially in children, pregnant individuals, or the elderly.

Types of Laxatives: How They Work

Benefits of Natural and Food  Based Laxatives

Natural and food-based laxatives help to relieve constipation and promote digestive function. It is suitable for regular and long-term use due to its mild nature and added nutritional benefits.

• Lower Risk of Side Effects:  Compared to stimulant laxatives, natural laxatives are far less likely to result in reliance or severe side effects.

• Nutritional Benefits: A number of natural laxatives are highly fibrous as well as rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, which help boost health and immunity.

• Safe for Long-Term Use: Natural laxatives are good for everyday consumption since they support regular bowel movements and help maintain gut microbiome balance.

Examples of Effective Natural Laxatives

• Prunes & Figs: High in fiber and natural sorbitol

• Bananas (ripe): Promote bowel movement and gut flora balance

• Flaxseeds & Chia Seeds: Excellent sources of soluble fiber and omega-3

• Oats & Whole Grains: Provide bulk to stools and improve transit time

• Leafy Greens (like spinach & kale): Rich in magnesium and fiber

How to Use Laxatives Safely: Best Practices

Best Practices for Safe Laxative Use:

• Always read the instructions on the packet or those given by your doctor

• Stay well-hydrated, especially with fiber-based laxatives

• Do not use daily except as advised by a doctor (fiber-only exceptions)

• If serious symptoms occur: Severe pain, bleeding, persistent constipation lasting over a week

• To decrease the risk of side effects a starting dose which is the lowest effective should be used

• Do not combine many different laxative products without medical advice

• Eat a wealth of high-fiber foods and set aside time for physical activity to aid normal bowel movements

• Use care when pregnant or nursing, first see a doctor

• Proper storage of laxatives is necessary. Store them in a cool, dry place, away from children

• Keep track of your bowel movements. If you're using laxatives all the time, talk to a health care professional

Are There Any Side Effects or Complications?

With Chemical Laxatives

• Cramps

• Diarrhea

• Dehydration

• Habit formation (your body may stop working naturally)

With Natural Laxatives

• Very low risk if taken as directed

• May cause mild gas or bloating at first

• Always drink enough water to avoid dryness in the gut

Avoid Laxatives If You Have:

• Sudden, severe abdominal pain

• Vomiting or nausea

• Bloody or black stools

Who Should Avoid Self-Prescribing Laxatives?

Seek medical guidance before use if you:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding

• Have chronic GI conditions (e.g., Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis)

• Recently had abdominal surgery

• Are elderly or immunocompromised

• Have a history of eating disorders

Expert Safety Tips for Routine Bowel Health

• Fiber every day: Aim for 25–30g from whole foods

• Hydrate fully: 6–8 glasses of water daily

• Exercise routinely: Physical activity aids bowel motility

• Develop regular toilet habits: Respond to natural urges promptly

• Monitor for chronic patterns: Log bowel movements and symptoms for better clinical assessment if needed

Frequently Asked Laxative Questions

When should you choose natural remedies?

If constipation is occasional or mild, a natural herbal remedy like Bilipatra’s Nirant Churn for constipation relief can be a safe first step. It’s made with traditional natural ingredients that gently and naturally support digestion.

Are laxatives safe?

Laxatives taken under a doctor’s guidance for short-term use are generally safe. However, long-term use can disrupt the natural movement of the intestines and may lead to issues such as dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.

How long do laxatives take to work?

• Most laxatives work in 8 to 12 hours, especially if taken before bedtime.

• Some laxatives may take a little longer (overnight), but the results are smoother and more balanced.

Are natural laxatives as effective as medicines?

Many natural laxatives (fiber, prunes, chia) are as effective for mild to moderate constipation and carry lower risks. Medications are best for severe, acute, or procedure-related needs—always under a clinician’s advice.

Can you use laxatives long-term?

Only bulk-forming/fiber-based types (psyllium, methylcellulose) may be used long-term under medical direction. Others (stimulants, osmotics) are for short-term use only.

What’s the fastest-working laxative?

Rectal stimulant suppositories and saline osmotics act in 15 minutes to 6 hours but are not recommended for routine or first-line use.

When should you seek medical help?

• Constipation > 1 week despite lifestyle change

• Severe, sudden, or worsening pain

• Rectal bleeding, involuntary weight loss, vomiting

• Signs of chronic constipation