Yellow Dock for Constipation: Laxatives to be aware of

Yellow Dock or Rumex crispus is a common weed in North America whose root is often used to treat constipation. Laxatives like yellow dock are called “stimulant laxatives” because they contain chemicals called anthraquinone glycosides. These chemicals can be problematic for long-term use to alleviate constipation, which will be discussed below.

Yellow Dock & its Anecdotal uses

There is little scientific evidence supporting the use of yellow dock for any health application. Yet, there is a plethora of anecdotal evidence pointing to its usefulness for the following:

• An adjunct treatment for hemorrhoids


• Alleviation of rheumatism – i.e. joint issues


• Yellow Dock has been used an adjunct therapy for skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis



Is Yellow Dock safe to use to relieve Constipation?

Laxatives containing anthraquinone glycosides are called purgative/stimulant laxatives because they induce colon contractions by altering fluid and electrolyte transport. So the use of yellow dock may be uncomfortable and can lead to cramping and discomfort. As for the anthraquinone content, the medical community is split products containing these chemicals like Yellow Dock are safe for regular usage. The following is some of the evidence against its regular usage:



• Constipation sufferers who use anthraquinones have been evaluated in several studies. These studies have found damage in both the nerves of the colon and to the smooth muscle tissue of the colon. In one study, 45 stimulant laxative users were found to have abnormalities in the surface cells of their colon as well as nerve fibers that were in various stages of degeneration. Another study done in Scandinavia found nerve damage and reduced colon motility in chronic stimulant laxative users.


• Studies in animals found that large dosages of anthraquinones cause the production of tumors. While these dosages are higher than the amounts a human would take, it still raises concern about long-term use in humans for relieving constipation.


• Laxatives containing anthraquinones causes a staining of the colon called melanosis coli or “pseudomelanosis coli”. One study tracked patients who had this condition over 2 years and found that there was a much higher rate of colon cancer in this group versus those that didn’t have the staining of the colon. Another study demonstrated that colons with melanosis coli had a much higher rate of cell death among the surface cells of the colon compared to non-stained colons – possible causing colon wall damage . But it does appear that the colon can heal itself from this surface damage once the anthraquinones are removed.


• Because it alters the electrolyte balance in the colon, those with electrolyte issues should be cautious when taking Yellow Dock. It is also not recommended for those with kidney or liver disease as a treatment for constipation.>

Laxatives that are Non-Stimulant - Alternatives

It should be noted that there are studies showing that long-term anthraquinone use may not cause colon cancer or permanently damage the colon. But with the issue still a medical debate, you might not want to take the chance. Consider trying a non-stimulant constipation remedy. Constipation can be cured by using a natural laxative like StayRegular which works to support your body. Its proprietary “quad-action” formula relieves constipation by drawing water into the colon with essential minerals, rebalancing the colon’s beneficial bacteria, providing special fiber for stool movement, and supplying the nutrients the body needs to relax into comfortable bowel movements. Try StayRegular today if you’re looking for a long-term solution to chronic constipation that avoids the risks of stimulant herbal laxatives and provides a holistic answer instead of a stimulant one.