Effective Stool Softeners: Relief for Constipation - Mayo Clinic

When you cannot pass stool for longer than three days, have a intestinal blockage, have to strain to defecate, or do not feel you have completely evacuated your bowels after a bowel movement, you are experiencing constipation, according to the Mayo Clinic. Constipation is caused by several factors, including dehydration, irritable bowel syndrome, pregnancy, hormonal changes and lack of activity. A stool softener will make your harder stools move through the rectum more smoothly, making it easier for you to void your bowels.

Things You'll Need

• 1 tbsp. lemon juice
• 2 tbsp. olive oil
• 3 tbsp. mineral oil
• Large glass
• Water
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp. molasses
• Small bowl

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Instructions

Lemon Juice and Mineral Oil

• 1

  Add 1 tbsp. lemon juice, 2 tbsp. olive oil and 3 tbsp. mineral oil into a large glass.

• 2

  Add 8 ounces water to the glass and drink it quickly.

• 3

  Drink an additional 8 ounces of water after you consume the drink. Drinking more water will help soften your stool even further.

• 4

  Repeat this process once a day for one week, or until the constipation symptoms subside.

Apple Cider Vinegar and Molasses

• 5

  Pour 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar and 2 tbsp. molasses into a small bowl.

• 6

  Pour the mixture over a salad or drink it down.

• 7

  Consume an 8-ounce glass of water after the mixture is consumed.

• 8

  Repeat this process once a day for one week, or until the constipation symptoms subside.