While the subject of ‘elimination’ isn’t glamorous, it certainly is something that deserves our attention, since regular elimination is essential for a healthy and happy life! ORGANIC INDIA has a delicious herbal infusion that you will want to keep on hand….. should the need arise!
Constipation has many possible causes, some of the most common include:
- Not drinking enough warm fluids
- Not moving or exercising enough, and spending long periods sitting or lying down
- Stress or anxiety
- Changing your diet
- Travel
- A side effect of medicine
Fortunately, ORGANIC INDIA has included Tulsi LAX in their Wellness Range of herbal teas, perfect for those times when our elimination is a little on the sluggish side. This is a natural, organic, gentle herbal laxative tea to help with regular elimination. It contains a blend of senna leaves, peppermint leaves, spearmint leaves, licorice root and the three Tulsis: lemony Vana Tulsi leaves, spicy Krishna Tulsi leaves and calming Rama Tulsi leaves.
The effect of this herbal infusion is twofold: (1) it contains herbs that are known laxatives and carminatives, and (2) by drinking more hot water, you are promoting regular bowel movements. Regularly drinking hot herbal teas is a great way to increase your intake of warm liquids and thereby prevent or relieve constipation.
The properties of the herbs in this infusion are known to promote elimination by directing the flow of movement downwards, relaxing the smooth muscles, moistening the bowel and calming the digestive tract. Here’s how each of the ingredients work to help you out!
Senna Leaf
Senna is well known as a laxative. From an Ayurvedic perspective, it helps to clear ‘Pitta’ (the fire and water elements) from the small intestine to relieve acute constipation caused by too much heat. It redirects ‘Vata’ (the air and ether elements) in a downward flow direction to assist elimination.
Tulsi Leaf
Tulsi is prescribed in Ayurveda to help the body detoxify, regain equilibrium and respond to stress in healthy ways. It is also thought to enhance energy, endurance and immunity. As an adaptogen, it is an excellent natural restorative for emotional balance and physical wellbeing, and promotes homeostasis and stress resilience.
From an Ayurvedic perspective, Tulsi assists with elimination by moving Apana Vata (the air element) downwards, helps to move Vata through the intestines, and calms a fermentative digestive tract.
Peppermint & Spearmint Leaves
Peppermint and Spearmint are considered carminatives, which relax the smooth muscles and help alleviate gas and bloating. You have probably heard of the benefits to overall digestion of drinking Peppermint Tea after a meal.
Licorice Root
Licorice has a demulcent nature which relieves inflammation, moistens and relaxes the bowel and is helpful for constipation. It is cooling, soothing and relaxing.
Remember to always make this tea according to the pack directions, and take either last thing before going to bed or first thing in the morning. A great idea is to take some with you while travelling, as travelling can often disrupt our daily routines. Each teabag is individually wrapped, so they stay fresher longer (and are easy to travel with).
This is not intended for daily, long-term use, so use this one only when necessary.
References:
Pole, S. (2013) Ayurvedic Medicine: the principles of traditional practice.
