---

Laxative

One of the most commonest digestive problems encountered amongst human beings is constipation, which usually occurs due to abnormal motility pattern in the colon and thus, delayed propulsion of the intestinal contents. It also occurs due to weak peristaltic movements or defecation reflex leading to hindrance in propagation. Laxatives known to be used for treatment of constipation include synthetic chemical compounds such as phenolphalein, bisacodyl (diphenyl methane laxatives), milk of magnesia. Laxatives are classified depending on their mechanisms of action. For example, laxatives comprising preparations of sodium phosphate or magnesium sulfate are of the osmotic type. Laxatives comprising preparations of phenolphthalein, bisacodyl, danthron, senna or cascara are of stimulant type and laxative comprising preparations of docusates, poloxamer, mineral oil or castor oil are of surfactant type. The osmotic, stimulant and surfactant laxatives have limited use due to their non-acceptable organoleptic properties and poor efficacy. Bulk fibers such as psyllium and methylcellulose are known effective laxatives. Bulk fiber laxatives are often powders which are mixed in water and consumed. Another type of laxative is a stimulant laxative, which is typically available in tablet or capsule form. These include senna, phenolphthalein, casanthranol, and bisacodyl. Bulk laxative may comprise semisynthetic polymers such as calcium polycarbophil or methyl cellulose or natural products such as bran, psyllium or isphagula husk. Benefits of bulk laxatives relative to stimulant laxatives include: mildness, naturalness, minimal to no diarrhea, and/or a more normal, bulked bowel movement. In recent years, herbal laxatives have grown in importance owing to their attributes of lack of undesirable side effects and thus ensuring safe and yet effective application. Natural laxatives rely upon a family of chemical compounds to activate the laxative action of the product. The chemical compounds, called anthraquinones, are combined with aloe, senna, cascara sagrada, and other plants. Such class of compounds produces severe side effects including intestinal contractions, abdominal pain, cramps and damage to the kidneys when used in large doses or for a prolonged period.

---