How Long Does it Take for Prunes to Work? + Recipe Included!
How Long Does Prune Juice Take to Work? The Best Natural Remedy for Constipation Relief

If you’ve ever felt the discomfort of constipation, you’re not alone—millions of people struggle with digestive issues every year. As someone who has experienced this firsthand, I know how frustrating it can be to find a solution that works.
That’s why I’m sharing this natural prune juice recipe, a tried-and-true remedy packed with health benefits to get your digestive system back on track. Whether it’s your first time trying prunes or you’re a long-time fan of their laxative benefits, this blog will answer your questions and show you how to incorporate prunes into your routine for maximum constipation relief. You can also try this Papaya Smoothie for Constipation Relief

Why Prunes and Prune Juice Are Effective
Prunes (dried plums) are packed with dietary fiber, phenolic compounds, and sugar alcohols like sorbitol, making them one of the most effective natural remedies for constipation.
- A systematic review published in the Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics journal found that prunes significantly increase stool frequency and improve stool consistency, making them more effective than psyllium for treating mild to moderate constipation. Source
- According to the Mayo Clinic, prunes contain a natural sugar alcohol called sorbitol, which has a mild laxative effect and helps stimulate bowel movements. Source
- Prunes offer both soluble and insoluble fiber, which not only ease constipation but also promote a healthy gut microbiome, supporting the growth of beneficial bacteria. Source
Are you getting tired of prunes? try these 3 Smoothies for bowel Detox and colon cleanse

How to Make the Best Natural Prune Juice for Constipation
This prune juice recipe is simple, effective, and loaded with digestive health benefits.
Ingredients:
- 10 dried prunes (about 8 grams of fiber per serving)
- 1 teaspoon of flaxseed
- 5 cups of water
Instructions:
- Place the prunes and flaxseed in a bowl or jar.
- Add water and cover the container.

- Let the mixture soak overnight. This allows the prunes to absorb water and soften, making them easier to blend.

- In the morning, blend the mixture until smooth using a high-speed blender. (Be sure to remove the prune pit if it hasn’t been removed already before blending.)

- Drink on an empty stomach, and wait 15–20 minutes before having breakfast.
- I recommend starting with about 4 ounces of juice to see how your body responds, and then gradually increasing the amount as needed.
I also have another fabulous natural remedy for constipation, you can try this Papaya Smoothie for Constipation Relief or Say Goodbye to Constipation with this Nopal Cactus Smoothie!

FAQ: Common Questions About Prunes and Prune Juice
1. How long does prune juice take to work?
I’ll answer based on my personal experience. When I drink the natural prune juice recipe I’m sharing with you, it usually takes about an hour to an hour and a half before I feel the need to go to the bathroom. My sister has made it as well and has taken her 4 hours to feel the need to evacuate. This isn’t a mild laxative—it’s a natural one, but it can cause diarrhea. That’s why I recommend starting with one or two cups of juice to see how it affects you, and then gradually increasing the amount based on how your body responds. For people with a slower digestive system or who are dealing with constipation that
2. Can you freeze prune juice?
Yes, you can freeze prune juice in an airtight container or ice cube tray for up to 3 months. This is a great way to store large quantities and ensure you always have it on hand.
3. Is prune juice a stool softener or a laxative?
Prune juice acts as both a stool softener and a natural laxative. The soluble fibers in prunes help soften stools, while sorbitol and phenolic compounds stimulate bowel movements. Source
4. Does prune juice soften stool that is already hard?
Yes, the fiber content and natural fermentable sugars in prune juice work to soften hardened stools, making them easier to pass. Source
5. What simple trick empties your bowels?
Drinking 8 ounces of prune juice first thing in the morning on an empty stomach, followed by plenty of water, is a good option to stimulate the digestive tract. Source
6. What is the best time to drink prune juice for constipation?
The ideal time is in the morning on an empty stomach or at night before bed to allow the natural laxative benefits of prunes to work overnight.
7. How to store prunes?
Store prunes in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. For longer shelf life, you can refrigerate or freeze them.

Why This Prune Juice Recipe Works
This prune juice recipe combines different components to maximize its laxative benefits:
- Prunes: Rich in sorbitol, soluble fibers, and phenolic compounds, they reduce symptoms of constipation and promote regular bowel movements.
- Flaxseed: Adds healthy fats and extra grams of fiber, helping to improve stool consistency and reduce transit time.
- Water: Keeps the stool hydrated and prevents lumpy stools, making them easier to pass.
When paired with a diet rich in whole grains, fresh plums, and plenty of water, this juice can have a positive impact on your digestive health.
According with RD Grecia Villegas “The recipe is excellent! However, as a note, it shouldn’t be labeled as a “healthy breakfast” since it isn’t very nutrient-dense on its own. Instead, it works better as an addition to your morning routine. It can be enjoyed on an empty stomach to break your fast, but pairing it with a good source of protein—such as 2 eggs or a serving of Greek yogurt—would make it a much more complete and balanced option.”
Bonus Tips for Constipation Relief
- Hydrate: Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily to keep your stools soft.
- Move: Incorporate physical activity into your routine to stimulate the digestive tract.
- Fiber-Rich Diet: Add more whole foods like fresh apples, green leafy vegetables, and dried fruit to your meals.
- Small Amounts First: Start with a small amount of prune juice (4–8 ounces) to avoid unwanted side effects.

Bottom Line
Prune juice is an effective remedy for constipation that works naturally to promote regular bowel movements, improve stool consistency, and support a healthy gut. Whether you’re looking for a mild laxative effect or a natural way to relieve chronic constipation, this home treatment is a good choice for you and your family.
Ready to give it a try? Follow this simple recipe, stay consistent, and let me know how it works for you in the comments below! Don’t forget to check out more health benefits of prunes and digestive health tips on my blog.
Natural Prune Juice Recipe for Constipation Relief
Equipment
- Blender
Ingredients
- 10 prunes
- 1 tsp flaxseed
- 5 cups of water
Instructions
- Place the prunes and flaxseed in a bowl or jar.
- Add water and cover the container.
- Let the mixture soak overnight. This allows the prunes to absorb water and soften, making them easier to blend.
- In the morning, blend the mixture until smooth using a high-speed blender. (Be sure to remove the prune pit if it hasn’t been removed already before blending.)
- Drink on an empty stomach, and wait 15–20 minutes before having breakfast.
- I recommend starting with about 4 ounces of juice to see how your body responds, and then gradually increasing the amount as needed.
Video
Nutrition

Hi! I’m Grecia Villegas, a Registered Nutritionist with expertise in diabetes, obesity, and chronic degenerative diseases. When one of Laura Muller’s recipes focuses on health, I supervise to ensure accuracy and nutritional balance. Thank you for trusting us to bring you delicious and health-conscious content! Learn more about me.