This topic is about using Ballerina tea as a natural alternative to Miralax for managing constipation related to a colostomy. The person who shared this information found that Ballerina tea, which they bought from an Asian market, helped them more effectively than Miralax in keeping their bowel movements regular. Here are some helpful insights and advice based on their experience:
1. The person also uses colostomy irrigation as part of their routine.
2. They have had a hernia repair with mesh, which has narrowed the stoma opening, making it harder for stool to pass. The tea helps by "loosening everything up."
3. Ballerina tea contains Chinese mallow and senna. Senna leaf is a well-known herbal laxative.
4. Natural or herbal methods, like laxative teas, can be a gentler alternative to osmotic laxatives such as Miralax.
5. If you can't find Ballerina tea locally, try looking in Asian grocery stores or searching online. A senna-based tea, like "senna leaf tea," might offer similar benefits.
6. A general tip for dealing with minor stoma blockages is to stop eating solid food and drink plenty of fluids until the blockage clears.