Try brands such as Epsoak Epsom Salt.
This can take a few minutes.
You can use the microwave to heat the water first, then add the salt.
Epsom salts taken as a laxative generally work within 30 minutes to six hours. Make sure you take it during a time where you have easy access to a bathroom to avoid accidents or discomfort. If you are giving the laxative to a child under the age of 12, you may use one to two level teaspoons. [2] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Do not give this mixture to children under 6 years old. The safety of Epsom salt as a laxative on this age group has not been tested. [3] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Increased water intake can also help with your bowel movements, so it is helpful in multiple ways. [4] X Research source
Never take Epsom salt as a laxative if you are experiencing severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, have had a sudden change in bowel habits that has lasted two weeks or longer, are suffering from rectal bleeding, or have dark, tarry stools.
If you are currently taking other medications such as corticosteroids, blood pressure medications, diuretics, pain relievers, antacids, or antidepressants, consult your physician before using Epsom salts as a laxative.
Also ask your doctor if it is safe for you to use if you are pregnant or breast feeding. Also contact your doctor before using it if you have used another laxative in the last two weeks that has not worked for you. [5] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
If constipation becomes chronic or long-term, it can be serious and you should consult a physician. [6] X Research source
It is important to remember and realize that constipation can be a symptom of a number of more serious medical disorders including diabetes, an underactive thyroid, inflammatory bowel disease, and some neurological disorders. Other causes of constipation are changes in your daily routine such as travel and not enough time to have bowel movements. This can happen if you have a particularly busy lifestyle or are busy helping spouses, partners, or children or are a caregiver to an elderly relative. [7] X Trustworthy Source National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases Health information from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, a division of the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
In general, at least four to eight times a week seems to be most common. The key is your diet and comfort level. People with more frequent bowel movements tend to have high fiber diets and are often vegetarians or vegans. Those with fewer bowel movements tend to have a higher meat content in their diet. [8] X Research source
