Home Remedies for Children's Constipation: Easing Hard Stools Naturally
Last updated: January 2026
Quick Answer
Is your child struggling with hard stools? YES, this is a common issue - and natural remedies can help!
Kabz (constipation) in children is one of the most common digestive problems parents face. The good news? Most cases can be managed at home with simple dietary changes and natural remedies. Hard stools happen when food moves too slowly through the digestive system, allowing too much water to be absorbed. Before reaching for medicines, try these time-tested gharelu nuskhe (home remedies) that Indian families have used for generations.
What Causes Hard Stools in Children?
Watch: Breast Milk vs. Formula: Why Breast Milk is Best for Your Baby! #breastfeedingbenefits #babyhealth
For Babies 4-6 Months:
Transition from breast milk to formula - Formula is harder to digest
Introduction of solid foods - Digestive system adjusting to new foods
Low fluid intake - Not getting enough breast milk or water
Rice cereal - Often the first solid, can cause kabz
For Children 6 Months to 2 Years:
Diet low in fiber - Too much processed food, not enough fruits and sabzi
Insufficient water - Very common cause, especially in hot weather
Too much milk/dairy - Excess dairy can cause constipation
Holding potty - Some toddlers resist using the toilet
For Older Children:
Poor toilet habits - Ignoring the urge to go
Stress or anxiety - School pressure, changes in routine
Lack of physical activity - Sitting too much, not playing enough
Junk food - Chips, biscuits, and processed snacks
Symptoms of Constipation
Less than 3 bowel movements per week
Hard, dry, pebble-like potty
Pain or crying during bowel movements
Pet dard (stomach pain) and bloating
Blood streaks on stool or while wiping
Soiling underwear (in potty-trained children)
Loss of appetite
Irritability and crankiness
Home Remedies (Gharelu Nuskhe)
Natural Foods That Work Like Magic:
Papaya (Papita)
Nature's best laxative for children
Give 2-3 tablespoons of ripe papaya daily
Can be given from 6 months onwards
Prunes and Prune Juice
Soak 2-3 prunes overnight, blend and give
Or give 1-2 oz diluted prune juice
Works within 12-24 hours usually
Isabgol (Psyllium Husk) - For children above 2 years
Mix 1/2 teaspoon in warm milk or water
Give at bedtime for morning relief
Ensure child drinks plenty of water after
Gulkand (Rose Petal Jam)
1 teaspoon daily helps regulate bowel movements
Natural coolant, great for summer
Safe for children above 1 year
Munakka (Raisins)
Soak 5-6 munakka overnight
Give soaked raisins in the morning
The fiber and natural sugars help soften stools
Traditional Indian Remedies:
Hing Water (Asafoetida)
Mix a pinch of hing in warm water
Apply around navel or give 1 teaspoon
Excellent for gas and constipation both
Ajwain (Carom Seeds) Water
Boil 1/2 teaspoon ajwain in water
Cool and strain, give 1-2 teaspoons
Helps with digestion and kabz
Warm Milk with Ghee
Add 1/2 teaspoon desi ghee to warm milk
Give at bedtime
Lubricates intestines naturally
Triphala - For children above 3 years
1/4 teaspoon Triphala powder in warm water
Give at bedtime (consult pediatrician first)
Physical Remedies:
Tummy Massage
Use warm coconut oil or sarson ka tel
Massage in clockwise circular motion
5-10 minutes, 2-3 times daily
Warm Bath
Relaxes abdominal muscles
Add Epsom salt for better effect
Let child soak for 15-20 minutes
Squatting Position
Natural position for easy bowel movement
Use a small stool under feet when on Western toilet
Helps especially for potty-training toddlers
When to See a Doctor
Seek immediate care if:
Blood in stool (not just streaks)
White or grey colored potty
Severe pet dard with vomiting
Fever along with constipation
Swollen, hard abdomen
Child is in extreme pain and inconsolable
Schedule an appointment if:
Constipation lasts more than 2 weeks
Home remedies are not working
Child is losing weight
Stool leakage or soiling (in trained children)
Constipation started after a new medicine
Recurring episodes of severe constipation
What's Normal Poop By Age?
Age
Frequency
Consistency
0-3 months (breastfed)
3-4 times/day to once a week
Soft, seedy, yellow
0-3 months (formula)
1-2 times/day
Soft, tan/yellow
4-12 months
1-2 times/day
Soft, formed
1-3 years
Once daily
Soft, formed
3+ years
Once daily or every other day
Soft, formed, brown
Prevention Tips
High-Fiber Diet Daily
Whole wheat roti instead of maida
Include dal, sabzi, and salad in every meal
Fresh fruits (not just juice) daily
Hydration is Key
4-6 glasses of water daily for toddlers
6-8 glasses for older children
More in summer and after physical activity
Limit Constipating Foods
Reduce maida products (bread, biscuits, cakes)
Limit cheese and excessive milk
Avoid too many bananas
Establish Toilet Routine
Same time daily, preferably after breakfast
Never rush the child
Make it stress-free and comfortable
Encourage Physical Activity
Running, playing, cycling
At least 60 minutes of active play daily
Less screen time, more outdoor time
Expert Insight: Dr. Sumitra explains: 'Every baby's poop schedule is different. Some go 7 times a day, some once a week - both can be normal.'
FAQs
Q: My baby hasn't done potty for 4 days - should I be worried?
A: For exclusively breastfed babies, this can be normal as breast milk is so well absorbed. For formula-fed or older babies, if there's no discomfort, wait another day. If baby seems uncomfortable, try tummy massage and bicycle legs. If still no movement after 5-6 days, consult your doctor.
Q: Can I give Cremaffin or Duphalac without doctor's advice?
A: It's best to consult your pediatrician before giving any over-the-counter laxatives. These medicines should be used short-term and under medical guidance, especially for young children.
Q: How much water should my 1-year-old drink?
A: Around 4-6 small glasses (about 500-700 ml) of water daily. More if the weather is hot or if baby is very active. Remember, fruits and dal also provide fluids.
Q: My child holds potty deliberately - what should I do?
A: This is common, especially after a painful experience with hard stool. Make toilet time stress-free, use a comfortable seat, give a footstool, and offer rewards for trying. Never punish or force. If the problem persists, talk to your pediatrician.
Q: Are there any foods I should completely avoid?
A: No food needs complete avoidance, but limit:
Maida products (white bread, naan, cakes)
Excessive cheese and paneer
Chips and packaged snacks
Too many bananas
Excessive milk (more than 2 cups for toddlers)
Q: Is it safe to give ghee daily for constipation?
A: Yes, a small amount of desi ghee (1/2 to 1 teaspoon) daily is safe and actually beneficial for digestion. It helps lubricate the intestines and eases bowel movements.
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This article was reviewed by a pediatrician. For personalized advice about your child's constipation, consult with Babynama's pediatric experts on WhatsApp.
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