Chronic Constipation: What does your constipation feel like most of the time?

Commonly suggested options include magnesium, psyllium, cascara sagrada, fiber Deficiency, acupuncture and biofeedback.

Chronic Constipation: What kind of help would you rather start with?

Commonly suggested options include magnesium, psyllium, cascara sagrada, inulin, resistant Starch (RS2/RS3) and probiotics (Lactobacillus plantarum P8).

Chronic Constipation: natural remedies and the evidence behind them

14 options · 2 graded A · 4 graded B · 1 graded C · 7 traditional or ungraded

What does your constipation feel like most of the time?

My stools are hard and dry, and days go by without going — I feel backed up

Magnesium
Supported by controlled trials (Evidence grade A · No traditional record)
Draws water into bowel to ease passage
Why this matches
When stools feel hard and infrequent, magnesium's gentle osmotic action can soften and stimulate movement.
Why try it
Magnesium draws water into the intestines to soften stool; in pooled randomized trials in adults with chronic constipation, magnesium oxide improved how often and how easily people had bowel movements.
Dose or use
200–400 mg magnesium citrate or oxide at bedtime; follow product labeling.
Time to results
Typically 1–3 days
Key study
Meta-Analysis (2023, PMID 37243443): a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials in adults with chronic constipation found magnesium oxide improved stool frequency and consistency, with about 68% responding versus 19% on control.
Caution
Avoid high doses with kidney disease; can cause loose stools if dose is too high.
Psyllium
Supported by controlled trials· Centuries of traditional use (Evidence grade A · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional staple
Bulk-forming fibre gets things moving
Why this matches
Adding stool bulk is the most direct first step when bowel frequency is the main problem.
Why try it
Psyllium absorbs water in the gut to soften and add bulk to stool; in pooled randomized trials in adults with chronic constipation, psyllium was among the fibers that significantly improved bowel regularity.
Dose or use
5–10 g in a full glass of water, 1–3x daily; always drink plenty of fluids.
Time to results
Typically 3–5 days
Key study
Meta-Analysis (2022, PMID 35816465): a systematic review and meta-analysis of 16 randomized trials in adults with chronic constipation found fiber supplementation improved treatment response and stool frequency, with psyllium among the fibers showing significant effects.
Caution
Take with plenty of water; can interfere with medication absorption if taken simultaneously.
Cascara sagrada
Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional staple
Stimulant laxative bark for sluggish transit
Why this matches
If things feel genuinely slow and backed up, cascara works differently from fiber by prompting the colon to contract.
Why try it
Cascara sagrada is a traditional buckthorn-bark laxative that increases contractions in the large intestine; it is used traditionally rather than confirmed in modern trials.
Dose or use
Follow product labeling and use only short-term, no more than about a week, and consult a healthcare practitioner.
Time to results
Typically overnight to a day
Key study
Traditionally used as a natural laxative for constipation; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
Caution
A stimulant laxative not meant for long-term or daily use; avoid in pregnancy, breastfeeding, or bowel obstruction, and stop if you get cramping or diarrhea.
Fiber Deficiency
Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional staple
Too little fiber makes stools hard
Why this matches
When you are not going often enough, not getting enough daily fiber is one of the most common root causes worth checking.
Why try it
Fiber bulks and softens stool; if your daily intake is low, building it up gradually is a direct way to ease infrequent, hard bowel movements.
Dose or use
Build gradually toward 25-35 g of fiber a day from vegetables, fruit, legumes, and whole grains, and drink plenty of water.
Time to results
Typically 1-2 weeks
Key study
Low dietary fiber is a well-recognized contributor to constipation; this is a root-cause check, not a treatment claim, so review your typical intake.
Caution
Increase fiber slowly and keep fluids up, or you may feel more bloated and gassy at first.

I strain and push but can't fully empty — like my muscles won't coordinate

Acupuncture
Supported by smaller clinical studies (Evidence grade B · No traditional record)
Stimulates bowel nerve pathways
Why this matches
For those whose constipation involves difficult evacuation, acupuncture has been studied for improving bowel function through nerve stimulation.
Why try it
Electroacupuncture may support gut motility and ease straining, as shown in a clinical trial comparing it to medication.
Dose or use
Work with a qualified, licensed practitioner; ask them how many sessions and how often are right for you.
Time to results
Typically 4–8 weeks
Key study
RCT (2023, PMID 36662303): Effectiveness of electroacupuncture versus prucalopride for women with severe chronic constipation: secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial.
Caution
Seek a licensed acupuncturist; inform them of any bleeding disorders or medications.
Biofeedback
Supported by smaller clinical studies (Evidence grade B · No traditional record)
Retrains pelvic muscles for easier evacuation
Why this matches
If straining is the dominant symptom, biofeedback directly addresses the muscle coordination behind it.
Why try it
Biofeedback teaches you to relax and coordinate pelvic floor muscles during bowel movements, supported by a randomized controlled trial.
Dose or use
Work with a trained pelvic floor therapist, who guides sessions using sensors and exercises; ask how many sessions and how often are right for you.
Time to results
Typically 4–8 weeks of sessions
Key study
RCT (2025, PMID 40391458): Efficacy of Biofeedback Therapy on Chronic Constipation and Sexual Dysfunction in Postmenopausal Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial.
Caution
Best guided by a trained pelvic health therapist.
Physical Therapy
Limited human trials so far· Most of the research is laboratory or animal work (Evidence grade C · No traditional record)
Pelvic floor PT addresses muscle dysfunction
Why this matches
Straining or incomplete evacuation often points to pelvic floor dysfunction that targeted physical therapy can address.
Why try it
Pelvic floor physical therapy uses hands-on techniques to improve muscle coordination involved in bowel movements.
Dose or use
Work with a qualified, licensed practitioner; ask them how many sessions and how often are right for you.
Time to results
Typically 6–12 weeks
Key study
Clinical trial (2023, PMID 35640864): Utility of Anorectal Testing to Predict Outcomes With Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy in Chronic Constipation: Pragmatic Trial.
Caution
Seek a physiotherapist specializing in pelvic health.

I'm bloated, gassy, and irregular — I think my gut bacteria or diet are off

Inulin
Supported by smaller clinical studies· Recognised traditional use (Evidence grade B · Traditional use recognised)Recognised traditional use
Prebiotic fibre feeds beneficial gut bacteria
Why this matches
If the gut microbiome feels off, inulin works as a prebiotic to nourish beneficial bacteria that support regularity.
Why try it
Inulin is a prebiotic fiber that ferments in the colon to feed beneficial bacteria; in a randomized, placebo-controlled trial in adults with functional constipation, daily chicory inulin improved stool frequency and constipation-related quality of life, though the benefit varied between individuals.
Dose or use
3–10 g daily, mixed into food or drink; start low to minimize gas.
Time to results
Typically 2–4 weeks
Key study
Randomized Controlled Trial (2025, PMID 41233756): a double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial of 12 g/day chicory inulin for four weeks in adults with functional constipation found improvements in stool frequency, abdominal symptoms, and constipation-related quality of life, with benefits varying between individuals.
Caution
Start with a low dose to avoid bloating; avoid if fructan-sensitive or with IBS-D.
Resistant Starch (RS2/RS3)
Supported by smaller clinical studies (Evidence grade B · No traditional record)
May support gut microbiome and stool frequency
Why this matches
Resistant starch directly feeds the microbiome and has been studied in a clinical trial for stool frequency in chronic constipation.
Why try it
RS2/RS3 starch escapes digestion and ferments in the colon; in a randomized, placebo-controlled trial in adults with chronic constipation, resistant starch increased bowel-movement frequency and supported beneficial gut bacteria.
Dose or use
Follow product labeling; consult a healthcare practitioner.
Time to results
Typically 2–6 weeks
Key study
Randomized Controlled Trial (2024, PMID 39543201): a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of resistant starch type 3 in adults with chronic constipation found significantly increased bowel-movement frequency and healthier stools over 6-12 weeks, alongside gains in beneficial gut bacteria.
Caution
Introduce gradually to avoid gas and bloating.
Probiotics (Lactobacillus plantarum P8)
Not yet assessed· We have not reviewed the literature for this one (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use recognised)Recognised traditional use
Probiotic support for an off-feeling gut
Why this matches
When bloating and irregularity suggest a microbiome imbalance, a clinically studied probiotic strain is a logical starting point.
Why try it
Probiotic strains are used to support a balanced gut microbiome and more regular bowel habits; this specific strain has not itself been confirmed in a controlled constipation trial.
Dose or use
Follow product labeling; consult a healthcare practitioner.
Time to results
Typically 4–8 weeks
Key study
Used to support gut microbiome balance; the trial on file does not test this specific strain, so no strain-specific human-efficacy claim is made here.
Caution
Generally well tolerated; use caution if severely immunocompromised.
Fiber Deficiency
Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional staple
Too little fiber makes stools hard
Why this matches
When you are not going often enough, not getting enough daily fiber is one of the most common root causes worth checking.
Why try it
Fiber bulks and softens stool; if your daily intake is low, building it up gradually is a direct way to ease infrequent, hard bowel movements.
Dose or use
Build gradually toward 25-35 g of fiber a day from vegetables, fruit, legumes, and whole grains, and drink plenty of water.
Time to results
Typically 1-2 weeks
Key study
Low dietary fiber is a well-recognized contributor to constipation; this is a root-cause check, not a treatment claim, so review your typical intake.
Caution
Increase fiber slowly and keep fluids up, or you may feel more bloated and gassy at first.

Everything just feels sluggish — I want to find and fix the underlying cause

ST25 (Tianshu) - Stomach 25
Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional staple
Classic acupressure point for the bowels
Why this matches
A whole-body approach can include self-applied acupressure, and ST25 sits on your abdomen beside the navel, right over the colon.
Why try it
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, ST25 (Tianshu) is a primary point for constipation and regulating bowel movements; it is used traditionally rather than proven in clinical trials.
Dose or use
Press firmly about two finger-widths to either side of your navel for 1-2 minutes while breathing slowly; repeat a few times a day.
Time to results
Varies; try over 1-2 weeks
Key study
Traditionally used in acupressure for constipation and bowel regulation; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
Caution
Avoid firm abdominal pressure if you are pregnant or have a hernia, abdominal injury, or recent surgery.
ST36 (Zusanli)
Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional staple
Supports digestion and gut motility
Why this matches
A whole-body reset can include acupressure you apply yourself, and ST36 is a classic point for supporting digestive function.
Why try it
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, ST36 (Zusanli) is widely used to support gut motility and digestion; it is a traditional practice rather than a trial-proven treatment.
Dose or use
Press the point just below the outer knee, about four finger-widths down from the kneecap, for 1-2 minutes on each leg once or twice daily.
Time to results
Varies; try over 1-2 weeks
Key study
Traditionally used in acupressure to support digestion and bowel motility; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
Caution
Generally very safe; stop if you feel pain and avoid firm pressure over broken or irritated skin.
Magnesium Deficiency
Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional staple
Low magnesium may underlie sluggish bowels
Why this matches
A whole-body reset approach naturally includes checking for root-cause nutrient gaps like magnesium that affect gut muscle function.
Why try it
If you're low in magnesium, correcting it can help restore normal intestinal muscle contractions and regularity.
Dose or use
Follow product labeling; consult a healthcare practitioner.
Time to results
Typically 2–4 weeks
Key study
Correcting a documented shortfall can support recovery; this is a root-cause check, not a treatment claim — ask your provider to test your levels.
Caution
Ask your healthcare provider about a magnesium blood check, especially if on diuretics or with kidney concerns.
Potassium Deficiency
Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional staple
Low potassium can slow bowel muscles
Why this matches
A whole-body reset includes checking mineral gaps, and potassium helps your intestinal muscles contract, so low levels can contribute to constipation.
Why try it
If you are low in potassium, correcting it supports normal smooth-muscle and bowel function; this is a root-cause check rather than a laxative.
Dose or use
Favor potassium-rich foods such as leafy greens, beans, potatoes, and bananas, and ask your provider before using supplements.
Time to results
Typically 2-4 weeks
Key study
Constipation is a recognized sign of low potassium; this is a root-cause check, not a treatment claim, so ask your provider to test your levels.
Caution
Do not take potassium supplements without medical advice, especially with kidney issues or certain blood-pressure or heart medications.

What kind of help would you rather start with?

Something I can take at home that gets things moving within days

Magnesium
Supported by controlled trials (Evidence grade A · No traditional record)
Draws water into bowel to ease passage
Why this matches
When stools feel hard and infrequent, magnesium's gentle osmotic action can soften and stimulate movement.
Why try it
Magnesium draws water into the intestines to soften stool; in pooled randomized trials in adults with chronic constipation, magnesium oxide improved how often and how easily people had bowel movements.
Dose or use
200–400 mg magnesium citrate or oxide at bedtime; follow product labeling.
Time to results
Typically 1–3 days
Key study
Meta-Analysis (2023, PMID 37243443): a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials in adults with chronic constipation found magnesium oxide improved stool frequency and consistency, with about 68% responding versus 19% on control.
Caution
Avoid high doses with kidney disease; can cause loose stools if dose is too high.
Psyllium
Supported by controlled trials· Centuries of traditional use (Evidence grade A · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional staple
Bulk-forming fibre gets things moving
Why this matches
Adding stool bulk is the most direct first step when bowel frequency is the main problem.
Why try it
Psyllium absorbs water in the gut to soften and add bulk to stool; in pooled randomized trials in adults with chronic constipation, psyllium was among the fibers that significantly improved bowel regularity.
Dose or use
5–10 g in a full glass of water, 1–3x daily; always drink plenty of fluids.
Time to results
Typically 3–5 days
Key study
Meta-Analysis (2022, PMID 35816465): a systematic review and meta-analysis of 16 randomized trials in adults with chronic constipation found fiber supplementation improved treatment response and stool frequency, with psyllium among the fibers showing significant effects.
Caution
Take with plenty of water; can interfere with medication absorption if taken simultaneously.
Cascara sagrada
Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional staple
Stimulant laxative bark for sluggish transit
Why this matches
If things feel genuinely slow and backed up, cascara works differently from fiber by prompting the colon to contract.
Why try it
Cascara sagrada is a traditional buckthorn-bark laxative that increases contractions in the large intestine; it is used traditionally rather than confirmed in modern trials.
Dose or use
Follow product labeling and use only short-term, no more than about a week, and consult a healthcare practitioner.
Time to results
Typically overnight to a day
Key study
Traditionally used as a natural laxative for constipation; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
Caution
A stimulant laxative not meant for long-term or daily use; avoid in pregnancy, breastfeeding, or bowel obstruction, and stop if you get cramping or diarrhea.

I want to rebuild my gut bacteria for lasting regularity, even if it takes weeks

Inulin
Supported by smaller clinical studies· Recognised traditional use (Evidence grade B · Traditional use recognised)Recognised traditional use
Prebiotic fibre feeds beneficial gut bacteria
Why this matches
If the gut microbiome feels off, inulin works as a prebiotic to nourish beneficial bacteria that support regularity.
Why try it
Inulin is a prebiotic fiber that ferments in the colon to feed beneficial bacteria; in a randomized, placebo-controlled trial in adults with functional constipation, daily chicory inulin improved stool frequency and constipation-related quality of life, though the benefit varied between individuals.
Dose or use
3–10 g daily, mixed into food or drink; start low to minimize gas.
Time to results
Typically 2–4 weeks
Key study
Randomized Controlled Trial (2025, PMID 41233756): a double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial of 12 g/day chicory inulin for four weeks in adults with functional constipation found improvements in stool frequency, abdominal symptoms, and constipation-related quality of life, with benefits varying between individuals.
Caution
Start with a low dose to avoid bloating; avoid if fructan-sensitive or with IBS-D.
Resistant Starch (RS2/RS3)
Supported by smaller clinical studies (Evidence grade B · No traditional record)
May support gut microbiome and stool frequency
Why this matches
Resistant starch directly feeds the microbiome and has been studied in a clinical trial for stool frequency in chronic constipation.
Why try it
RS2/RS3 starch escapes digestion and ferments in the colon; in a randomized, placebo-controlled trial in adults with chronic constipation, resistant starch increased bowel-movement frequency and supported beneficial gut bacteria.
Dose or use
Follow product labeling; consult a healthcare practitioner.
Time to results
Typically 2–6 weeks
Key study
Randomized Controlled Trial (2024, PMID 39543201): a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of resistant starch type 3 in adults with chronic constipation found significantly increased bowel-movement frequency and healthier stools over 6-12 weeks, alongside gains in beneficial gut bacteria.
Caution
Introduce gradually to avoid gas and bloating.
Probiotics (Lactobacillus plantarum P8)
Not yet assessed· We have not reviewed the literature for this one (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use recognised)Recognised traditional use
Probiotic support for an off-feeling gut
Why this matches
When bloating and irregularity suggest a microbiome imbalance, a clinically studied probiotic strain is a logical starting point.
Why try it
Probiotic strains are used to support a balanced gut microbiome and more regular bowel habits; this specific strain has not itself been confirmed in a controlled constipation trial.
Dose or use
Follow product labeling; consult a healthcare practitioner.
Time to results
Typically 4–8 weeks
Key study
Used to support gut microbiome balance; the trial on file does not test this specific strain, so no strain-specific human-efficacy claim is made here.
Caution
Generally well tolerated; use caution if severely immunocompromised.

I'm open to working with a trained practitioner to retrain how my body goes

Acupuncture
Supported by smaller clinical studies (Evidence grade B · No traditional record)
Stimulates bowel nerve pathways
Why this matches
For those whose constipation involves difficult evacuation, acupuncture has been studied for improving bowel function through nerve stimulation.
Why try it
Electroacupuncture may support gut motility and ease straining, as shown in a clinical trial comparing it to medication.
Dose or use
Work with a qualified, licensed practitioner; ask them how many sessions and how often are right for you.
Time to results
Typically 4–8 weeks
Key study
RCT (2023, PMID 36662303): Effectiveness of electroacupuncture versus prucalopride for women with severe chronic constipation: secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial.
Caution
Seek a licensed acupuncturist; inform them of any bleeding disorders or medications.
Biofeedback
Supported by smaller clinical studies (Evidence grade B · No traditional record)
Retrains pelvic muscles for easier evacuation
Why this matches
If straining is the dominant symptom, biofeedback directly addresses the muscle coordination behind it.
Why try it
Biofeedback teaches you to relax and coordinate pelvic floor muscles during bowel movements, supported by a randomized controlled trial.
Dose or use
Work with a trained pelvic floor therapist, who guides sessions using sensors and exercises; ask how many sessions and how often are right for you.
Time to results
Typically 4–8 weeks of sessions
Key study
RCT (2025, PMID 40391458): Efficacy of Biofeedback Therapy on Chronic Constipation and Sexual Dysfunction in Postmenopausal Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial.
Caution
Best guided by a trained pelvic health therapist.
Physical Therapy
Limited human trials so far· Most of the research is laboratory or animal work (Evidence grade C · No traditional record)
Pelvic floor PT addresses muscle dysfunction
Why this matches
Straining or incomplete evacuation often points to pelvic floor dysfunction that targeted physical therapy can address.
Why try it
Pelvic floor physical therapy uses hands-on techniques to improve muscle coordination involved in bowel movements.
Dose or use
Work with a qualified, licensed practitioner; ask them how many sessions and how often are right for you.
Time to results
Typically 6–12 weeks
Key study
Clinical trial (2023, PMID 35640864): Utility of Anorectal Testing to Predict Outcomes With Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy in Chronic Constipation: Pragmatic Trial.
Caution
Seek a physiotherapist specializing in pelvic health.

I'd rather fix it through food and check for nutrient gaps first

Fiber Deficiency
Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional staple
Too little fiber makes stools hard
Why this matches
When you are not going often enough, not getting enough daily fiber is one of the most common root causes worth checking.
Why try it
Fiber bulks and softens stool; if your daily intake is low, building it up gradually is a direct way to ease infrequent, hard bowel movements.
Dose or use
Build gradually toward 25-35 g of fiber a day from vegetables, fruit, legumes, and whole grains, and drink plenty of water.
Time to results
Typically 1-2 weeks
Key study
Low dietary fiber is a well-recognized contributor to constipation; this is a root-cause check, not a treatment claim, so review your typical intake.
Caution
Increase fiber slowly and keep fluids up, or you may feel more bloated and gassy at first.
Magnesium Deficiency
Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional staple
Low magnesium may underlie sluggish bowels
Why this matches
A whole-body reset approach naturally includes checking for root-cause nutrient gaps like magnesium that affect gut muscle function.
Why try it
If you're low in magnesium, correcting it can help restore normal intestinal muscle contractions and regularity.
Dose or use
Follow product labeling; consult a healthcare practitioner.
Time to results
Typically 2–4 weeks
Key study
Correcting a documented shortfall can support recovery; this is a root-cause check, not a treatment claim — ask your provider to test your levels.
Caution
Ask your healthcare provider about a magnesium blood check, especially if on diuretics or with kidney concerns.
Potassium Deficiency
Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional staple
Low potassium can slow bowel muscles
Why this matches
A whole-body reset includes checking mineral gaps, and potassium helps your intestinal muscles contract, so low levels can contribute to constipation.
Why try it
If you are low in potassium, correcting it supports normal smooth-muscle and bowel function; this is a root-cause check rather than a laxative.
Dose or use
Favor potassium-rich foods such as leafy greens, beans, potatoes, and bananas, and ask your provider before using supplements.
Time to results
Typically 2-4 weeks
Key study
Constipation is a recognized sign of low potassium; this is a root-cause check, not a treatment claim, so ask your provider to test your levels.
Caution
Do not take potassium supplements without medical advice, especially with kidney issues or certain blood-pressure or heart medications.

Simple hands-on techniques I can do myself, anywhere, for free

ST25 (Tianshu) - Stomach 25
Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional staple
Classic acupressure point for the bowels
Why this matches
A whole-body approach can include self-applied acupressure, and ST25 sits on your abdomen beside the navel, right over the colon.
Why try it
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, ST25 (Tianshu) is a primary point for constipation and regulating bowel movements; it is used traditionally rather than proven in clinical trials.
Dose or use
Press firmly about two finger-widths to either side of your navel for 1-2 minutes while breathing slowly; repeat a few times a day.
Time to results
Varies; try over 1-2 weeks
Key study
Traditionally used in acupressure for constipation and bowel regulation; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
Caution
Avoid firm abdominal pressure if you are pregnant or have a hernia, abdominal injury, or recent surgery.
ST36 (Zusanli)
Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional staple
Supports digestion and gut motility
Why this matches
A whole-body reset can include acupressure you apply yourself, and ST36 is a classic point for supporting digestive function.
Why try it
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, ST36 (Zusanli) is widely used to support gut motility and digestion; it is a traditional practice rather than a trial-proven treatment.
Dose or use
Press the point just below the outer knee, about four finger-widths down from the kneecap, for 1-2 minutes on each leg once or twice daily.
Time to results
Varies; try over 1-2 weeks
Key study
Traditionally used in acupressure to support digestion and bowel motility; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
Caution
Generally very safe; stop if you feel pain and avoid firm pressure over broken or irritated skin.

Evidence grades describe the strength of published research for Chronic Constipation, not a promise of results. Nothing here is medical advice — talk to your clinician before starting anything, especially alongside prescription medication.

What does your constipation feel like most of the time?

My stools are hard and dry, and days go by without going — I feel backed up

Fiber Deficiency

I strain and push but can't fully empty — like my muscles won't coordinate

I'm bloated, gassy, and irregular — I think my gut bacteria or diet are off

Fiber Deficiency

Everything just feels sluggish — I want to find and fix the underlying cause

ST25 (Tianshu) - Stomach 25

ST36 (Zusanli)

Magnesium Deficiency

Potassium Deficiency

What kind of help would you rather start with?

Something I can take at home that gets things moving within days

I want to rebuild my gut bacteria for lasting regularity, even if it takes weeks

I'm open to working with a trained practitioner to retrain how my body goes

I'd rather fix it through food and check for nutrient gaps first

Fiber Deficiency

Magnesium Deficiency

Potassium Deficiency

Simple hands-on techniques I can do myself, anywhere, for free

ST25 (Tianshu) - Stomach 25

ST36 (Zusanli)

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