Laxatives

Fennel Fennel seed powder will relieve the griping action of stronger cathartics, such as senna.

Licorice A famous English laxative (Compound Powder of Licorice) uses licorice, senna, fennel, and sugar.

Psyllium Swallow the dried seeds, or mix the seeds with juice and drink it down. The seeds expand and decrease the density of the feces.
Purslane The whole plant is slightly laxative.

Rhubarb This root is both peculiar and valuable in medicine, as it combines gentle laxative action and astringent action. Therefore, it has often been used in children's bowel complaints and to sometimes overcome the causes of diarrhea by evacuating toxic materials from the lower bowel. It comes in pill form and also as Aromatic Syrup of Rhubarb, which is prepared with small amounts of cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, and rhubarb root powder. Purchase this syrup from a drugstore and use it as directed.

Senna This herb is a powerful laxative. It is used by many radiologists prior to exploratory X rays to cleanse the system of fecal matter. The griping action (intermittent severe pains in the bowel) of senna can be controlled by a pinch of ginger or fennel.

Sweet Flag This valuable medicinal root, also known as calamus, is readily available in the outdoors. For digestive problems, constipation, or restorative purposes, make a gruel of small quantities of the powdered or crushed root, wheat flour, and milk. Sweeten the gruel with honey.

Kneipp's Tonic Laxative

2-tablespoons powdered fennel
2-tablespoons (crushed) juniper berries
1-tablespoon fenugreek
1-teaspoon aloe powder

Mix the ingredients in dry form. Put the mixture in a closed, lidded jar. Keep it in a dry place.

Use 1 teaspoon of the combination and add it to 6 ounces of water. Simmer this for fifteen minutes. Drink it warm or cold, with or without sugar.

Dose: Weak: Divide 1 cup over the course of two to three days. Or the strong form: Take 2 cupfuls in a row. Take them at night before going to bed. It may take as long as twelve to thirteen hours to work in its weak state, but according to Father Kneipp there is no uncomfortable feeling with this compound laxative. Here the aloe powder has the strongest laxative actio n.

Since aloe causes bowel spasms (griping), it is imperative to use it with fennel, juniper berries, and fenugreek.