Constipation in children is often caused by a combination of dietary habits, emotional stress, and lifestyle factors. A low-fibre diet, insufficient water intake, and lack of physical activity are some of the most common contributors. Children may also hold in their stool, either because of embarrassment, fear of pain, or unfamiliar toilet environments. Emotional triggers such as anxiety, transitions, or changes in routine – like starting school or being away on a trip or holiday – can further disrupt their natural bowel rhythm. Over time, withholding can lead to harder stools and discomfort, creating a cycle of fear and avoidance. Children with recurrent illnesses, immune deficiencies, or Autism often experience constipation more frequently than their peers, leading to ongoing discomfort and distress. This can significantly impact mood, sleep, and overall well-being.

Addressing constipation in acute situations can often be managed at home by parents and caregivers, using gentle home prescribing alongside appropriate dietary and lifestyle adjustments. However, children who experience recurrent constipation often benefit from a more individualised approach that takes into account both physical symptoms and underlying emotional factors. Lasting relief requires more than a quick fix — it involves supporting the body’s natural rhythms and identifying what each child uniquely needs. With the right tools, support, and understanding, we can offer both immediate comfort and long-term digestive health. This holistic approach can significantly improve a child’s daily comfort, overall well-being, and quality of life.

TOP HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES

BOWEL REMEDIES – for recurrent constipation

In cases of recurrent constipation, especially when tied to immune deficiency, developmental delays, or neurodevelopmental conditions and Autism, bowel nosodes offer deeper healing and long-term support. Always consult with a qualified homeopath who will find the most indicated bowel remedy for your child’s system, and for the best results.

ALUMINA – for constipation that is stubborn – no urge to pass

• No urge to pass stool – even if the bowel is full
• The child may go for days without a movement and still feel no discomfort or urge
• Stool is very dry, hard, and requires great straining
• Child may seem sluggish, slow, mentally foggy, or low in energy
• Can be helpful in children with a dry mouth and dry skin also
• Seen after weaning, formula feeding, or in children with developmental delays

BRYONIA – constipation with dryness, child appears irritable or withdrawn

• Stool is large, dry, hard, and difficult to pass 
• Often passed in big, dry lumps like chalk or burnt clay
• May avoid going to the toilet due to pain, which makes everything worse
• The abdomen may be tense, bloated, or painful, especially with motion
• The abdomen may be tense, bloated, or painful, especially with motion
• For children who become constipated after travel, heat exposure, or dehydration

NUX VOMICA – linked to diet, lifestyle or medication use

• Constant urging/cramping/straining with little or no result
• The child may feel the need to go frequently but pass only small amounts
• Irritable, impatient, and oversensitive
• Constipation linked to diet/overstimulation – often seen after eating rich or processed foods
• May also be linked to medication/antibiotic use
• Child may be anxious, needy, or fearful of being alone

SILICA – for chronic or sluggish constipation

• Stool is difficult to pass despite normal or soft consistency
• May strain a lot but stool recedes after partial expulsion – referred to as “bashful stool”
• Weakness after passing stool, as if it drains their energy.
• Child may be chilly – dislikes cold, wants to be wrapped up, especially the head and feet
• Constipation since infancy or a tendency to hold in stool due to fear of pain
• May have poor absorption, failure to thrive, or slow development 

WORKING WITH A HOMEOPATH

• Ensures you receive a individualised remedy that matches your child’s presenting symptoms. Guides you in choosing the right potency/dosage. Offers you on-going support.

• Monitors progress, adjusting remedies and or potency/dosage if needed. For complex or chronic conditions, a homeopath’s expertise helps uncover potentially more deep-rooted causes.

• Personally, where appropriate and/or needed I offer nutrition, supplementation and lifestyle recommendations to compliment the homeopathic approach.

NUTRITION SUPPORT

• Increase fibre intake – fruits (pears, apples (with skin) and berries), vegetables, whole grains (oats + brown rice), and legumes (lentils + beans). A simple and very effective bowel mover is high fibre ground flaxseed mixed with water. Try this mixture once a day to support more regular movements.

• Reduce your child’s intake of processed foods, excessive dairy (especially cheese), and sugary processed snacks can contribute to sluggish bowels.

• Sufficient amounts of water is absolutely key. Encourage your child to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Herbal teas and warm water with lemon can also help in some cases.

HELPFUL THERAPIES

• Establish a routine – Encourage or help your child to sit on the toilet at the same time each day, especially after meals, to build a healthy habit.

• Make sure toilet time is calm and pressure-free. A footstool under the feet can help with posture and make elimination easier.

• Daily physical activity plays a vital role in relieving and preventing constipation in children. Movement stimulates the digestive system and encourages healthy bowel function.