Why you shouldn’t rely on laxatives

Here’s the thing — laxatives don’t actually fix the root problem.

They artificially force the bowels to empty, which can cause cramping, urgency, dehydration, and over time… dependency.

What your gut really needs is gentle support to wake up its natural rhythm again.

That’s where prokinetics come in.

What are prokinetics — and why are they better?

Prokinetics are herbs, supplements or medications that support your digestive system’s natural movement, known as motility.

They’re like a personal trainer for your gut — encouraging it to keep things moving on its own, at the pace it was designed for.

That means less bloating, better nutrient absorption, a lower risk of SIBO and less of that heavy, stuck feeling after meals.

Unlike laxatives, they don’t force the issue — they just remind your gut how to do its job properly again.

The best natural prokinetics I recommend

Over the years working with clients, I’ve trialled all sorts of options to find what actually works — and these five are my go-to herbs:

???? Ginger Root

✅ Stimulates your gut’s natural “cleansing wave” (the MMC)

✅ Eases nausea and bloating

???? Best as a tea or tincture before meals.

???? Artichoke Leaf

✅ Improves bile flow and moves food through faster

✅ Supports fat digestion

???? Found in tinctures or digestive bitters.

???? Gentian Root

✅ Bitter herb that wakes up sluggish digestion

✅ Helps appetite and bloating

???? Works well in digestive bitters, but avoid if you’ve got ulcers.

???? Licorice Root

✅ Soothes inflammation and stimulates motility

✅ Great for adrenal support too

???? Tea or capsules in the morning work best.

???? Peppermint Leaf

✅ Relaxes cramping while keeping things moving

✅ Helps with gas and bloating

???? Go for tea before meals — but skip if you have reflux.

Why I don’t recommend a one-size-fits-all

Even with herbs, there are nuances.

If you’ve got gallstones, bile duct issues, severe reflux, are on SSRIs, or are pregnant — some of these might not be right for you.

That’s why I never recommend guessing your way through a supplement aisle or copying what worked for your mate.

Instead — we figure out what’s actually going on in your gut, then build a personalised plan to repair motility, restore balance, and calm inflammation — properly.

Final word

If your gut feels sluggish, it’s not just “your normal” — and you don’t have to live with it.

And you certainly don’t have to keep relying on harsh laxatives just to feel human.

Natural prokinetics, when used properly, can help your body find its rhythm again — so you can feel lighter, more comfortable, and in control of your digestion.

???? If you’re ready to stop guessing and get your gut moving again — drop me a DM or book your free consultation here.

We’ll get you a proper plan to restore your digestion and your confidence.