Constipation

A dry, stuck feeling in the belly signals constipation, often linked to aggravated vāta doṣa. Ayurveda calls this vibandha, where the colon’s natural flow is blocked. When apāna vāyu (the downward-moving air) gets disturbed, bowel movement becomes sluggish, dry, or irregular, leading to discomfort and toxin buildup.

Common Causes of Constipation

Dry, cold, and low-fiber foods increase vāta.
Skipping meals or eating at odd times.
Long travel or sedentary lifestyle disturbs gut rhythm.
Stress and overthinking tighten the gut.
Suppression of natural urges weakens apāna vāyu.

Symptoms of Constipation

Infrequent or hard bowel movements.
Bloating or a heavy lower abdomen.
Flatulence with incomplete evacuation.
Dry mouth or foul breath.
Headache, irritability, or sluggishness.

Ayurveda’s Approach to Healing Constipation

Oily, warm foods and ghee soften the gut.
Triphala at bedtime tones and clears the bowels.
Daily abhyanga (oil massage) calms vāta in the colon.
Herbs like harītakī and bala restore movement gently.
Simple routines and regular sleep align apāna vāyu.