Consult doctor before trying herbal constipation remedy ...

The dried bark of this plant was used by Native Americans for years but was not widely adopted until the 19th century as a stimulant laxative. The compound is used in the production of dyes, as a catalyst for the production of wood pulp, and has a number of other purposes. The product is available in capsule form, liquid extract and as a dried bark that can be made into a bitter tea. Fresh bark should not be used because it can cause diarrhea and vomiting. It should not be used for longer than seven or eight days in a row without physician approval. The product should not be used by people with congestive heart failure, severe anemia, cancer of the GI tract, liver, kidney or diverticular disease, ulcerative colitis and a number of other conditions. It should not be used by women who are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, those with allergies or stomach pain, or in conjunction with prescription or nonprescription medications, herbals or dietary supplements. While waiting for an appointment, modify your diet to include between 20 and 35 grams of fiber daily. Try a stool softener, saline laxative or a fiber supplement such as the Metamucil you are on.