enema for constipation - #19220

For as long as I can remember, I have struggled with constipation. No matter what I do, my bowel movements remain irregular. Sometimes I go 3–4 days without passing stool, and when I finally do, it is dry, hard, and painful. I drink plenty of water, eat fiber-rich foods, and exercise, but nothing seems to work long-term. The discomfort is becoming unbearable, and I feel bloated most of the time. A friend suggested using enema for constipation, saying it provides quick relief. I’ve never used an enema before, and honestly, I am a bit unsure about whether it’s safe to use regularly. I’ve read conflicting opinions—some say it’s fine, while others say frequent enemas can weaken the body’s natural ability to pass stool. Is this true? Does Ayurveda recommend using enema for constipation, or should it be avoided? I’ve heard that Ayurveda has a special type of enema called "Basti." How is this different from a regular enema? If I were to use an Ayurvedic enema, what kind of herbal decoctions should I use? Would oil-based or water-based enemas be better for chronic constipation? I also experience other digestive issues. Even when I eat, I don’t always feel hungry, and my stomach often feels heavy. I get bloated after meals, and I feel like my digestion is too slow. Could my constipation be a sign of a deeper imbalance in my digestive system? If so, should I be focusing on fixing my digestion rather than relying on enema for constipation? One more thing—I’ve noticed that stress plays a big role in my bowel habits. When I’m under pressure at work or anxious about something, my constipation gets worse. Could this be related? If stress is a factor, are there Ayurvedic herbs, treatments, or practices that can help regulate my nervous system and digestion at the same time? I want a permanent solution that naturally regulates my bowel movements so I don’t have to depend on enemas or laxatives. Can you suggest Ayurvedic herbs, dietary changes, or lifestyle modifications that would work better than enema for constipation? Also, if enemas are safe to use occasionally, how often should I use them, and what is the correct method to do them at home?