Health & Wellness

Qabz (Constipation): 6 Desi Herbs People Trust and How to Use Them Safely

Qabz (قبض), or constipation, is one of the most common complaints in Pakistani homes. Low water intake, less fibre, long sitting hours and heavy, oily food all play a part. Before reaching for strong medicines, many families first try simple desi herbs that have been used for generations.

In this guide we explain six well known herbs, how people traditionally use them, and the lifestyle changes that make the biggest difference.

Why does qabz happen?

Not drinking enough water, especially in summer
Too little fibre from fruits, vegetables and whole grains
Sitting for long hours and little walking
Ignoring the urge to go to the toilet
Some medicines, iron tablets and stress

6 desi herbs traditionally used for qabz

1. Isabgol (اسبغول) / Psyllium husk

Isabgol is the most popular choice in Pakistan. It is a natural fibre that soaks up water and makes stool soft and easy to pass. It is usually taken as 1 to 2 teaspoons in a full glass of water or milk at night. The most important rule: always drink plenty of water with Isabgol, otherwise it can make things worse.

2. Triphala (تری پھلا)

Triphala is a blend of three fruits: Amla, Harar and Baheda. It is traditionally taken at night with warm water. Many people like it because it is gentle and also supports overall digestion. Browse our herbal powders for fresh Triphala.

3. Sana Makki (سنا مکی) / Senna leaves

Sana Makki is a strong herb mentioned in Tibb-e-Nabwi. It works faster than Isabgol, so it is used only for short periods, not daily. Long term use of senna is not advised, and it is not suitable for children, pregnant women or people with stomach disease without a doctor’s advice.

4. Saunf (سونف) / Fennel seeds

Saunf is chewed after meals in almost every Pakistani home. It helps with gas and heaviness, which often come with qabz. Saunf qehwa (boil one teaspoon in a cup of water) is a gentle evening drink.

5. Anjeer (انجیر) / Dried figs

Two or three dried figs soaked overnight in water and eaten in the morning is a much loved desi habit. Figs are rich in fibre and naturally sweet. Find them in our dry fruits section.

6. Aloo Bukhara (آلو بخارا) / Prunes

Soaked prunes are another tasty, natural option. Eat 4 to 5 soaked prunes, or drink the soaking water, in the morning.

Daily habits that help more than any herb

Drink 8 to 10 glasses of water a day
Eat fruit, salad and daal every day
Walk for 20 to 30 minutes, ideally after dinner
Sit on the toilet at the same time every morning
Reduce maida, fried food and very spicy food

When to see a doctor

Please see a doctor if qabz lasts more than two weeks, if you notice blood in stool, sudden weight loss, severe stomach pain, or if it started after a new medicine. These can be signs of a problem that needs proper treatment.

How to check the quality of these herbs

Isabgol: good husk is light, clean and off white, with no dust, stones or bad smell. When you mix it in water it should swell into a smooth gel within a few minutes.
Triphala: the powder should be fine, brownish and slightly sour and bitter in taste. A very dark or sandy powder can be old or mixed.
Sana Makki: the leaves should be greenish, not black or dusty. Old, crushed leaves lose quality.
Anjeer and Aloo Bukhara: should be soft, clean and free from fungus or insects.

A simple 7 day routine to get back on track

Morning: a glass of warm water as soon as you wake up, then 2 soaked anjeer or 4 soaked prunes.
Breakfast: whole wheat roti or daliya instead of maida, with fruit such as papaya or guava.
Lunch: daal, sabzi and a salad. Keep oily and fried food low.
Evening: a 20 minute walk and a cup of saunf qehwa.
Night: 1 to 2 teaspoons of Isabgol in a full glass of water or milk, followed by one more glass of water.

Most people notice a difference within a few days of drinking more water and adding fibre. If there is no change after two weeks, please see a doctor.

Common myths about qabz

Myth: “You must go to the toilet every day.” Fact: anything from three times a day to three times a week can be normal. What matters is comfort and a change from your usual pattern.
Myth: “Strong laxatives are fine every day.” Fact: daily strong laxatives, including herbal ones like senna, can make the bowel lazy over time.
Myth: “More Isabgol works faster.” Fact: too much Isabgol without enough water can cause bloating and make qabz worse.

Foods that help and foods to reduce

Eat more: papaya, guava, apples with skin, pears, spinach, daal chana, whole wheat atta, oats, yogurt and plenty of water.

Reduce: maida (naan, white bread, bakery items), too much tea, fried snacks, processed meat and very spicy food.

اردو خلاصہ

قبض عام طور پر پانی کی کمی، فائبر کی کمی اور کم چلنے پھرنے کی وجہ سے ہوتی ہے۔ اسبغول، تری پھلا، سونف، انجیر اور آلو بخارا روایتی طور پر استعمال کیے جاتے ہیں۔ سنا مکی صرف چند دن کے لیے استعمال کریں۔ روزانہ زیادہ پانی پئیں، سبزیاں اور پھل کھائیں اور چہل قدمی کریں۔ اگر قبض دو ہفتے سے زیادہ رہے یا پاخانے میں خون آئے تو ڈاکٹر سے ضرور رجوع کریں۔

Frequently asked questions

Which is better for qabz, Isabgol or Triphala?

Isabgol is a fibre and works by softening the stool, so it suits daily use with plenty of water. Triphala is a herbal blend traditionally used at night. Many people start with Isabgol. If you are unsure, ask us on WhatsApp.

Can I take Sana Makki every day?

No. Sana Makki is strong and is traditionally used only for a few days at a time. Daily long term use is not recommended.

Is Isabgol safe for children?

Small amounts are commonly used, but please ask your child’s doctor for the right quantity.

Shop related products

Digestive Care · Herbal Powders · Tibb-e-Nabwi · Dry Fruits

Not sure which herb is right for you? WhatsApp us at +92 301 7531564 (Daily, 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM) for free guidance from Hakeem Rizwan Maqsood.

Important: This guide shares traditional knowledge for general awareness. It is not medical advice and herbs are not a replacement for treatment. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking any medicine or have a health condition, please consult your doctor first.