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Foxnut as a Natural Laxative: Study on Its Efficacy and Mechanism in Constipation Management

Asmi Mayur Kadam
,
Bhagyashree Sanjeev Dongare
,
Bhakti Sanjay Dambe
,
Konda V V S Krishna
,
Sanjana Sanjay Bangar
,
Mukesh Kumar Meena
doi_icon
10.64063/3049-1630.vol3.issue4.000234

Published in IJPHDT, Vol-3, Issue-04, April-2026 (Vol. 3, Issue 4, 2026)

Foxnut as a Natural Laxative: Study on Its Efficacy and Mechanism in Constipation Management - Issue cover

Keywords

ConstipationEuryale ferox SalishPhytoconstituentsNatural Laxative

Abstract

Constipation is a widespread gastrointestinal disease that is caused by insufficient dietary fibre consumption, water deficiency, and sedentary life. The current review is based on Euryale ferox Salish. Also known as foxnut or makhana , a nutrient-dense aquatic plant seed with possible therapeutic uses in constipation relief. Foxnut is rich in dietary fibre, flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, phenolic acids, and essential minerals like magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus that together play a beneficial role in enhancing bowel movement and gut health. Its bioactive phytoconstituents enhance intestinal peristalsis, modulate water retention, maintain gut microbiota equilibrium, and demonstrate antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that defend the mucosal lining. The research also examines the development of a food product from foxnut and its acceptability in terms of sensory appeal, indicating its nutritional and medicinal value. Ayurvedic products like Makhana Churn and Sharkarayukta Dudhi also exhibit synergistic digestive and rejuvenating actions and are especially useful during pregnancy and postpartum care. In all, foxnut is a safe, natural, and inexpensive dietary regimen for the prevention and treatment of constipation. Additional pharmacologic and clinical research is needed to determine its ideal dosage and long-term safety.

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Authors (6)

Asmi Mayur Kadam

PSPS's Indira Institute of Pha...

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Bhagyashree Sanjeev Dongare

PSPS's Indira Institute of Pha...

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Bhakti Sanjay Dambe

PSPS's Indira Institute of Pha...

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Konda V V S Krishna

Government Polytechnic for Wom...

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Sanjana Sanjay Bangar

Shivajirao S Jondhle College o...

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Mukesh Kumar Meena

Department of Pharmaceutical S...

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Article Information

Published in:

IJPHDT, Vol-3, Issue-04, April-2026 (Vol. 3, Issue 4, 2026)

IJPHDT430002

IJPHDT-01-000234

16-29

2026-04-20

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How to Cite

Mayur, A., & Sanjeev, B. & Sanjay, B. & Konda V V S Krishna & Sanjay, S. & Kumar, M. (2026). Foxnut as a Natural Laxative: Study on Its Efficacy and Mechanism in Constipation Management. International Journal of Pharmacognosy and Herbal Drug Technology, 3(4), 16-29. DOI:https://doi.org/10.64063/3049-1630.vol3.issue4.000234

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