Chronic constipation is not only a very unpleasant problem, but also a condition that can adversely affect the body as a whole. In particular, constipation threatens to intoxication of the body due to ingestion of toxins from long stagnant intestinal feces. This, in turn, leads to a significant weakening of the immune system, so the body is exposed to an increased risk of infection. Constipation can lead to bowel deformity, hemorrhoids, fissures of the anus, etc.
In view of this, many different drugs have been developed to combat constipation, differing in the mechanism of action, the dosage form of the release, the time of exposure, etc. Often with constipation, doctors are advised to take sterile vaseline oil - an inexpensive, affordable and sufficiently effective remedy.
What is medical petroleum jelly?
Vaseline oil, or liquid paraffin, is a synthetic oily liquid obtained by processing oil as a result of kerosene distillation. This product is subjected to a high degree of purification, therefore in the composition of petroleum jelly there are no organic substances harmful to the body and their compounds.
Vaseline oil has no smell, color and taste. It finds application in the following areas:
- medicine - for the manufacture of ointments, as a solvent for some drugs, as a laxative, for lubricating catheters and tips of enemas, etc .;
- cosmetology - as a component of creams, gels and other cosmetology;
- industry - for impregnating paper, as a lubricant for equipment, etc.
Vaseline oil does not have a negative effect on the human body, which is confirmed by numerous studies. It has no carcinogenic, toxic or mutagenic properties, does not enter the circulatory system, does not affect the microflora of the gastrointestinal tract. It is also proved that vaseline oil does not accumulate in the body and is removed from it in an unchanged form.
The use of vaseline oil for constipation
Vaseline oil is a mechanical laxative that is used for chronic constipation. When taken orally, it has the following effect:
- lubrication of the intestinal wall, creating a barrier between the contents of the intestine and its mucous membranes;
- softening of hard stool and obstruction of their formation in the large intestine;
- overcoming stagnant phenomena in the intestines by facilitating the progress of feces;
- weak stimulation of intestinal motility.
Thus, petroleum jelly facilitates the act of defecation and prevents stool retention in the future.
How to take Vaseline oil?
This drug can be taken only on the advice of a doctor. As a rule, adults take Vaseline oil inside 1 to 2 tablespoons two hours after eating or fasting. The course of treatment with vaseline oil is limited to five days.
Contraindications to internal intake of petroleum jelly:
- individual intolerance;
- acute inflammatory processes in the abdominal cavity;
- febrile syndrome;
- intestinal obstruction;
- pregnancy.
When using petroleum jelly, it should be taken into account that the protective film created at the walls of the intestine is an obstacle to absorption of vitamins and microelements from the intestine. Therefore, the course of treatment with this drug can not be prolonged, otherwise hypovitaminosis may develop.
How much does vaseline oil work?
The laxative effect of vaseline oil occurs approximately 5 to 6 hours after ingestion.