Comparing the Effect of Golghand and Psyllium on Constipation among the Elderly: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Background: Constipation is a common problem among the elderly which would decrease their quality of life. One of the solutions for improving this problem is using medicinal plants. Objective: The present study was conducted to compare the effect of Golghand and Psyllium on constipation among the elderly. Methods: In this clinical trial, 70 older adults with constipation were selected and randomly allocated into two groups on Golghand and Psyllium. The Golghand group, consumed one tablespoon of Golghand potion three times a day half an hour after meals. The Psyllium group consumed a sachet of Psyllium powder with a glass of water three times a day after meals. The intervention lasted for two weeks. Data gathering tools were demographic questionnaire and a researcher-made checklist about bowel habits. Data were analyzed using SPSS 18. Results: According to the results, there was a significant difference between the mean numbers of defecation in each group before and after the intervention (paired t-test, P 0.05); but in comparison between the two groups mean number of defecation was significantly higher in the Psyllium group (independent t-test, P 0.001). The mean numbers of vomiting in each group had no significant difference before and after the intervention (paired t-test, P 0.05). Conclusions: Results of the present study showed that both medications could be used as supplementary non-medicinal methods for treating constipation among the elderly.