In addition to over-the-counter (OTC) laxatives, various natural constipation remedies are worth a try when bowel movements become elusive. One such remedy is tea.
Out of the many types of teas available in the market, Smooth Move Tea from the brand, Traditional Medicinals, stands out as it has been specially formulated to facilitate proper bowel movement. The organic herbal tea - devoid of caffeine - can be purchased from most grocery stores or on an online platform.
Though this particular type of tea doesn't have FDA approval specifically for treating constipation, several ingredients mixed into it do possess that recognition.
The subsequent paragraphs will discuss more about Smooth Move Tea's ingredients and their benefits and potential risks plus instructions on brewing a piping hot cup for yourself.
Alert
Please note: If your constipation continues for several days, cease consumption of Smooth Move Tea and contact your healthcare professional. It's possible that you may have a hidden health problem requiring attention.
Ingredients in Smooth Move Tea
Smooth Move Tea, an organic and caffeine-free beverage, is available in four varieties: citrus, chamomile, chocolate and peppermint. The prime ingredient driving its functionality is the senna leaf – a laxative approved by FDA over-the-counter drug (Source: National Library of Medicine).
The mode of action for Senna involves prompting bowel movements to alleviate constipation. It follows a similar pattern as other stimulant laxatives, which enhance muscle contractions along your intestine walls to facilitate stool excretion from your body (More details at: Mayo Clinic).
Depending on the flavor chosen you may encounter these ingredients in your cup of tea according to the product's website:
- Licorice root - An herb primarily used for easing indigestion issues (See more about it here: Mount Sinai)
- Ginger - Known to reduce nausea effects and aid upset stomach management (Houston Methodist has substantiating insights)
- Bitter fennel fruit
- Sweet orange peel
- Cinnamon bark
- Coriander fruit
- Ginger rhizome
- Orange peel oil combined with gum arabic
Described on their portal as having a "sweet aroma accompanied by spiced notes from oranges", Smooth Move Tea does promise an interesting flavor profile alongside its health benefits.
Preparing a Perfect Cup of Smooth Move Tea
To prepare a soothing cup of tea to alleviate constipation, follow the simple steps recommended on the manufacturer's website:
- Pop one tea bag into your favourite mug or cup.
- Heat water using a stove-top kettle or microwave till it comes to boil.
- Pour hot water (about 8 ounces) over the tea bag housed in your mug.
- Allow for the tea-infusion process to take place over 10 -15 minutes.
- Once steeped, remove and squeeze out any remaining juice from the teabag back into your drink to maximize extraction.
If you'd prefer an enhanced flavor profile, consider introducing a slice of fresh lemon or spoonful of honey as add-ons to your brew.
What is the Ideal Time for Consuming Smooth Move Tea?
According to the instructions on Smooth Move Tea packaging, it is recommended to drink it before going to sleep. This recommendation stems from the fact that numerous stimulant laxatives like senna generally require around six to twelve hours to show results, as stated by the National Health Service (NHS). In some conditions, this duration can extend up to 24 hours, a fact also highlighted by Mayo Clinic.
Having this tea before bedtime benefits your digestive system with ample time for bowel movement. Moreover, most people are likely to have an empty stomach during night time which aids in quick functioning of any laxative properties according to sources from Mayo Clinic.
In case you prefer not drinking tea, alternatives such as Smooth Move Capsules are also available which yield similar result in equivalent period of time.
Advantages of Consuming Smooth Move Tea
Smooth Move tea's primary perk is its ability to alleviate constipation, due to its laxative properties. Furthermore, it can lessen the discomfort and bloating associated with constipation. Any kind of tea that soothes your stomach—for instance, variants containing ginger or licorice—can enhance your relief from these symptoms as confirmed by the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Tea consumption also aids in keeping the body hydrated which is a crucial factor in preventing constipation. If you maintain adequate water intake levels, it also minimizes your chances of dehydration.
The evidence backing herbal tea's efficacy in inducing sleep quickly may be scanty; however, if you relish hot beverages (which are caffeine-free), consuming them just before bedtime could promote relaxation.
Is Drinking Smooth Move Tea Considered Safe?
Smooth Move Tea is regarded as safe, provided you adhere to the advised dosage and do not consume it for more than a week consecutively. Over-consumption could disrupt your body's natural bowel movement pattern.
Frequent use of laxatives beyond the recommended duration could potentially result in your bowel becoming dependent on them. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), this dependency means you might find it impossible to "go" without them. If a laxative has been necessary for over a week, contact your healthcare provider - an underlying problem that necessitates medical attention might be present.
According to NHS indications, persons suffering from certain conditions may find Smooth Move Tea unsuitable:
- Crohn's disease
- Ulcerative colitis
- Appendicitis
- Heart or kidney issues
- Persons who are pregnant or chest/breastfeeding
It's also recommended by the NHS that individuals avoid consuming any senna products like Smooth Move Tea if they're currently taking any of following medications:
- Diuretics
- Steroids
- Medications for heart-related conditions
- Other types of laxatives (unless approved by a doctor)
- Certain herbal treatments (again, unless given approval by doctor)
Always consult with your health care professional before incorporating any form of laxatives into your routine if anything previously mentioned applies to you. They can suggest safer alternatives for alleviating constipation.
Potential Adverse Reactions to Smooth Move Tea
Consuming an excess amount of Smooth Move Tea, or misusing laxatives overall, can lead to chronic diarrhea. This may disrupt your balance of essential electrolytes such as potassium, sodium and chloride. If the imbalance becomes serious, it could result in a dysfunctional heartbeat or potentially heart failing needing instant professional medical help according to Brown University.
Even though uncommon, senna (the primary ingredient in Smooth Move Tea) can cause several other adverse reactions according to the NLM:
- Coloring urine brown
- Upset stomach
- Feeling nauseous
- Cramping in the stomach
- Sudden weakness
In case you experience any of these reactions stop drinking Smooth Move Tea immediately and reach out for medical consultation from your physician.
Concluding Thoughts
Typically, Smooth Move Tea is risk-free to consume for managing slight constipation over a couple of days. This caffeine-less, organic beverage has a sweet and peppery flavor which is ideally consumed before sleeping.
However, if it becomes necessary for you to use it more than one week, it's recommended that you consult your healthcare provider about your health concerns.
