Efficacy of Natural Formulation Containing Activated Charcoal, Calcium Sennosides, Peppermint Oil, Fennel Oil, Rhubarb Extract, and Purified Sulfur (Nucarb®) in Relieving Constipation

Abstract

IntroductionLong-term use of laxatives may have side effects such as bloating, allergic reaction, abdominal pain, metabolic disturbances, and hepatotoxicity. In this study, we have compared the efficacy of herbal medicine Nucarb, a combination of activated charcoal, calcium sennosides, peppermint oil, fennel oil, rhubarb extract, and purified sulfur, in relieving constipation. MethodsThis longitudinal study was conducted in multiple cities of Pakistan from April 2021 to June 2021. A total of 1000 patients, of either gender between age group 18 and 75 years, with complete spontaneous bowel movement of less than or equal to two times per week, were enrolled in the study. Participants were prescribed two tablets of Nucarb once daily (OD) at bedtime for the first seven days, followed by one tablet of Nucarb OD at bedtime for the following seven days. They were asked to return for follow-up after 14 days. ResultsThere was a statistically significant improvement in all six components of constipation. After 14 days, the severity of constipation reduced by 80.70%, the sensation of straining was reduced by 72.69%, and the feeling of incomplete evacuation was reduced by 71.87%. There was no adverse event reported. ConclusionNucarb is efficacious in reducing the severity of constipation, sensation of straining, bloating and abdominal pain, feeling of incomplete evacuation, and difficulty in passing gas. Since it is a herbal product, it can be safely used in all populations.

Moringa oleifera leaf alleviates functional constipation via regulating the gut microbiota and the enteric nervous system in mice

“…Vitamin C has abundant biological activities, but its laxative properties have not been reported. Through a systematic literature review, we found that the presence of sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium and phosphorus in nature in various forms have different degrees of relief for constipation, including calcium sennosides, magnesium oxide, magnesium sulfate, sodium hyaluronate, and potassium binder ( Dupont et al, 2019 ; Ali et al, 2021 ; Mori et al, 2021 ; Imamura and Kinugawa, 2022 ; Vacca et al, 2022 ). In particular, dietary magnesium and phosphorus are closely related to the occurrence of constipation ( Zhang et al, 2021 ; Zhao et al, 2023 ).…”