Metamucil is a drug that promotes bulk production. It is a fiber supplement and laxative in one. However, you need not rely on synthetic drugs to help promote regular bowel movement. There are many herbs, fruits, vegetables, juices and forms of exercise that are natural laxatives to help get that digestive system back on track.
Herbs
For those suffering from constipation, certain herbs can be used to relieve the symptoms of constipation. For example, black walnut seed husk improves and regularizes your bowel movements. It also reduces the presence of parasites in your intestinal tract. Hibiscus flower cleanses and lubricates the walls of your intestinal tract. Cascara sagrada functions effectively as a natural laxative. It stimulates bowel movement and promotes regular muscular contractions, known as peristaltic action within your digestive system. Yucca root is also a natural laxative. It stimulates bowel movement. Slippery elm bark powder provides comfort and relief from bowel and stomach complications. Passionflower leaf soothes and comforts your irritable bowel syndrome. It relieves and calms your digestive system. Finally, marshmallow root functions as a mucilage, which is a sticky adhesive-like substance that acts like a broom when it sweeps your intestinal tracts clean.
Exercise
Yoga makes a great form of natural laxative. When practiced regularly, yoga promotes good health while it strengthens and tones your body. Yoga keeps you focused, and helps your body regulate its natural rhythm and processes.
If you opt for other cardiovascular exercises, simply walk for 30-40 minutes everyday to help prevent constipation.
Food
Fiber-rich foods are natural cleansers for the colon. The rough texture of guava and its seeds help relieve constipation. Bran cereals, legumes, and whole grain foods are excellent sources of fiber as well. Drinking milk with honey soothes the digestive tract. Other high-fiber foods include: spinach, sweet peppers, swiss chard, tomato, zucchini, kidney beans, collard greens, sweet corn, broccoli, artichokes, cabbage, brussels sprouts, peas, chick peas, potatoes, sweet potatoes, squash, apples, bananas, cantaloupes, plums, raisins, grapefruit, oranges, dried figs, pears, strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, peaches and apricots.
Drink plenty of fluids. Eight glasses of water or fruit juices everyday will keep your digestive system nourished and active. Prune juice is an excellent example of a natural laxative. Prunes which are rich in vitamin A, potassium, iron and fiber are very potent, so a little goes a long way.
