Some of the best remedies come from the heart of the kitchen—not the pharmacy aisle. The prune juice and butter recipe is one such time-tested solution, simple yet surprisingly powerful when it comes to relieving constipation naturally and gently.
My journey with healing recipes began in a sun-drenched kitchen tucked in a quiet coastal town. It was the kind of place where time slowed down, rosemary danced in the breeze, and food was always made with love. Growing up surrounded by strong women, I learned that food wasn’t just for feeding the body—it was for comforting the soul.
One of my earliest memories is standing on a wooden stool, reaching up to the countertop to help roll dough while my aunt trusted me with the herb sprinkle. That sense of wonder still fuels every dish I create today—including this soothing prune juice and butter recipe that I’ve turned to more times than I can count.
I started using this recipe during one of those weeks when everything just felt… stuck. Stress, travel, poor eating—your digestive system notices it all. That’s when I remembered my mother’s words: “A warm meal—or a warm remedy—can say what words sometimes cannot.” This prune juice and butter recipe became a staple in my home, passed on and shared like a little secret that just works.
In this article, you’ll learn how to prepare the perfect prune juice and butter recipe, why it works so effectively as a natural laxative, how often to take it, and what other ingredients pair well with it. We’ll also cover alternative homemade remedies, safety tips, and answers to popular questions so you can feel confident and cared for.
Don’t miss our natural Mounjaro recipe for another gentle and effective approach to wellness.
Table of Contents
Introduction to Prune Juice and Butter for Digestion
The Historical Use of Prune Juice for Digestive Health
Long before shelves were lined with over-the-counter medications, families leaned on home remedies for digestive support. One of the most enduring remedies is prune juice—known for its gentle but reliable effects. When combined with a small amount of butter, the result is the incredibly effective prune juice and butter recipe, which continues to be passed down from generation to generation.
Prune juice, made from dried plums, is packed with dietary fiber and a natural sugar alcohol called sorbitol. Sorbitol draws water into the colon, softens stool, and encourages movement in the bowels. For many, drinking prune juice was a morning routine, particularly for children or elderly family members needing help with regularity.
This fiber-rich drink became a household favorite not just because it worked—but because it did so naturally. Adding butter to the mix enhances its benefits, creating a classic prune juice and butter recipe that is not only effective but also easy to make and gentle on the stomach.
Today, this recipe is making a well-deserved comeback among health-conscious individuals who prefer natural remedies to synthetic options. And honestly, once you’ve tried the prune juice and butter recipe, it’s hard to go back to anything else.
Looking for inspiration? Try our coffee loophole recipe to explore how your morning brew can also support digestion.
Print
Prune Juice and Butter Recipe
A time-tested, natural remedy for constipation that combines the fiber and sorbitol of prune juice with the digestive power of butter. Soothing, simple, and effective—this warm drink offers gentle relief without the harshness of chemical laxatives.
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup (8 oz) 100% prune juice (no added sugar)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (preferably grass-fed)
Instructions
- Warm the prune juice in a small saucepan or microwave-safe mug until hot but not boiling.
- Add the butter to the warm juice and stir until fully melted and combined.
- Let the mixture cool slightly to a comfortable drinking temperature.
- Drink slowly on an empty stomach—morning or evening works best.
- Optional: Follow with a glass of warm water to aid hydration and support digestion.
Notes
Best taken once per day as needed. Relief typically occurs within 4 to 8 hours. Avoid exceeding 2 servings per day to prevent discomfort or loose stools. For dairy-free alternatives, substitute butter with 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Category: Remedies
- Method: Heated
- Cuisine: Natural Health
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 drink
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2.5g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: prune juice, natural laxative, constipation relief, butter, digestive remedy
Why Butter Complements Prune Juice in This Natural Recipe
You might wonder why butter is added at all. The answer lies in how fats like butter trigger bile production in the liver. This bile is essential for breaking down fats and stimulating smooth movement through the digestive system. That’s why the prune juice and butter recipe works better than prune juice alone—it combines fiber and healthy fat in perfect balance.
The butter in this mixture acts like a lubricant. It eases the passage of stool through your intestines, especially when your digestion feels sluggish. This makes the prune juice and butter recipe an ideal option for those needing gentle, consistent relief without the harshness of chemical laxatives.
Prune juice hydrates and adds bulk, while butter softens and smooths things along. That’s why this dynamic duo is so popular with people looking for real, fast, and natural results.
If you enjoy effective wellness drinks, check out our green tea drink recipe, a metabolism-boosting companion to your digestive routine.
And when your system is back in balance, discover great ideas like this steak salad guide, perfect for long-term gut health and balanced meals.

Understanding How Prune Juice Works as a Laxative
Nutritional Breakdown of Prune Juice
To understand why the prune juice and butter recipe works so well, we first need to look at what’s inside prune juice. A single 8-ounce serving delivers:
Nutrient | Amount (Approx.) |
---|---|
Dietary Fiber | 2.5–3 grams |
Sorbitol | 15 grams |
Natural Sugars | 18 grams |
Potassium | 707 mg |
Iron | 0.5 mg |
Vitamin B6 | 0.4 mg |
What makes prune juice so effective as a natural laxative is its high content of sorbitol, a type of sugar alcohol that helps pull water into the large intestine. This added moisture helps to soften stool and stimulate movement through the colon—without creating an emergency bathroom situation.
The soluble fiber in prune juice also forms a gel-like consistency in the gut, which traps waste and encourages it to move out smoothly. This double-action of sorbitol and fiber makes prune juice a powerful tool for relieving occasional constipation.
Want to support your body’s hydration along with your digestion? Discover our iced matcha latte guide for a refreshing, antioxidant-packed companion drink.
How Prune Juice Stimulates Bowel Movement
Here’s where the prune juice and butter recipe really shines: not only does it provide sorbitol and fiber from the prune juice, but the butter adds healthy fat that gets your digestive system moving faster.
When you consume fat—especially in liquid or semi-liquid form—it stimulates the liver to produce bile, which helps emulsify and process fats. But it also encourages peristalsis, which is the muscle movement in your intestines that pushes stool through your digestive tract. This gentle push is what makes the prune juice and butter recipe work more consistently than prune juice on its own.
For those who deal with bloating, irregularity, or a sluggish gut, this natural combo can offer fast, soothing relief. It’s especially helpful when taken warm in the morning on an empty stomach, as it prepares your body for the day and kickstarts digestive activity.
Check out our lemon balm recipe for weight loss if you’re exploring other natural ways to keep your gut clean and your body energized.
Why Butter Enhances Digestive Relief
The Role of Healthy Fats in Digestion
While prune juice takes care of hydration and fiber, butter steps in as a powerful digestive aid by delivering just the right amount of healthy fat. Fats are often misunderstood, but in the right doses—especially when consumed in natural forms like butter—they’re essential for optimal gut health.
When you consume butter, it triggers your liver to release bile, a digestive fluid that breaks down fat molecules and prepares your intestines for efficient nutrient absorption. This release of bile also activates peristalsis, the muscular contractions that move food—and eventually waste—through your system.
That’s why the prune juice and butter recipe is so effective. It’s not just about softening stool. It’s about creating the right internal conditions for your gut to do its job without resistance, strain, or discomfort.
Want to pair your gut-friendly meals with nourishing flavors? Check out our grilled mahi mahi guide, perfect for protein-packed, digestion-supportive dinners.
Butter’s Role in Softening Stool and Aiding Motility
One of butter’s most underrated benefits is its lubricating effect. When paired with prune juice, it doesn’t just sit in your gut—it lines your intestinal tract, easing the passage of stool through your colon. This smooth movement helps prevent straining, making the prune juice and butter recipe an excellent option for individuals who suffer from occasional constipation or want a gentler alternative to harsh laxatives.
Many people also find that warm butter (melted into warm prune juice) enhances the overall effect, creating a comforting drink that not only works fast but feels soothing to consume.
The combination of fiber, sorbitol, and fat sets your digestive system in motion—naturally, predictably, and without cramps or urgency.
For a warm post-remedy meal, don’t miss our creamy mashed cauliflower, ideal for easing back into solid foods after a cleanse.
Step-by-Step Prune Juice and Butter Recipe
Ingredients and Quantities Needed
The beauty of the prune juice and butter recipe lies in its simplicity. With just two ingredients and a few minutes of prep, you’ll have a natural, effective remedy that works fast and supports your digestive health—without artificial additives or processed fillers.
Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
---|---|---|
Prune Juice | 1 cup (8 oz) | Use 100% pure prune juice, no added sugar |
Unsalted Butter | 1 tablespoon | Grass-fed butter is ideal for best results |
This recipe can be scaled depending on your needs, but for most people, one serving per day is more than enough to stimulate a natural bowel movement within a few hours.
You can find more soothing gut-friendly drinks in our iced strawberry matcha latte recipe—delicious and rich in antioxidants.
Preparation Method (Quick and Easy)
Follow these steps to prepare the prune juice and butter recipe in just a few minutes:
- Warm the prune juice. Pour the prune juice into a small saucepan or microwave-safe mug. Warm it gently until it’s hot but not boiling. Overheating can destroy some of the beneficial enzymes in the juice.
- Add the butter. Stir in the tablespoon of butter while the juice is still hot. Continue stirring until the butter is fully melted and incorporated.
- Let it rest. Allow the mixture to cool slightly, just enough so it’s warm and comfortable to drink.
- Drink on an empty stomach. For best results, drink the mixture first thing in the morning or at night before bed.
- Follow with water. It’s helpful to drink a glass of warm water afterward to support hydration and help the remedy move smoothly through your digestive system.
This prune juice and butter recipe typically produces results within 4 to 8 hours, depending on your metabolism and hydration levels.
Want to add some fiber-rich solid food afterward? Try our stuffed peppers without rice—a great way to balance your gut post-cleansing.

When and How to Take the Mixture
Best Time of Day to Consume for Optimal Results
Timing matters when it comes to digestive remedies. To get the most out of your prune juice and butter recipe, it’s best to take it on an empty stomach. This allows your body to absorb the nutrients and activate your digestive system without interference from other foods.
Here are the top two recommended times:
- First thing in the morning: This is ideal because your digestive system is fresh and responsive. Drinking the mixture before breakfast can encourage a natural bowel movement within a few hours.
- At night before bed: For some, taking the prune juice and butter recipe in the evening works better. Your body continues digesting while you sleep, and many people wake up ready to go—literally.
The key is consistency. Try it at the same time each day for a few days to see how your body responds.
For more overnight wellness inspiration, don’t miss our pink salt trick recipe, designed to support hydration and digestion while you sleep.
Dosage Guide: How Much Is Too Much?
With natural remedies, more isn’t always better. The classic prune juice and butter recipe is both potent and gentle—but only when taken in the right amount.
Here’s a simple dosage guide:
Age Group | Recommended Dosage |
---|---|
Adults | 1 cup prune juice + 1 tbsp butter |
Teens (13–17) | ¾ cup prune juice + ½ tbsp butter |
Children (6–12) | ½ cup prune juice + ½ tbsp butter (with pediatrician approval) |
Important: Never exceed 2 servings per day, even if you don’t get immediate results. Overuse can cause loose stools or abdominal discomfort.
Also, stay well-hydrated throughout the day. Water helps the fiber in prune juice do its job more effectively and keeps your system running smoothly.
If you’re looking for a high-protein post-relief meal, our high protein egg salad sandwich is gut-friendly and satisfying.
And if you’re craving something lighter, our roasted asparagus recipe is the perfect pairing to ease back into regular meals after using the remedy.
Other Effective Ingredients to Mix with Prune Juice
Natural Additions: Honey, Lemon, Olive Oil
While the prune juice and butter recipe is incredibly effective on its own, there are a few other natural additions you can mix with prune juice to enhance both taste and results. These ingredients not only add flavor but also bring unique digestive benefits that can complement the original recipe.
Let’s look at a few top choices:
- Raw Honey: Known for its antimicrobial and soothing properties, honey can add a touch of sweetness to the prune juice mixture. It also helps ease inflammation in the gut, especially if you’re dealing with mild irritation or discomfort.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Lemon boosts digestion and adds a fresh citrus tang that cuts through the thickness of prune juice. The vitamin C helps detoxify your system and stimulate bile flow, much like butter does in the original prune juice and butter recipe.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: If you’re dairy-free or prefer plant-based options, olive oil is a great substitute for butter. It provides similar lubricating effects and promotes healthy fat digestion.
Want a savory, digestion-friendly meal to follow your mixture? Discover great ideas like our grilled halibut guide—light, protein-rich, and perfect for gut balance.
Effective Combinations and When to Use Them
Different combinations serve different purposes. Depending on your body’s needs, here are some effective alternatives to the classic prune juice and butter recipe:
Combination | Best Use Case |
---|---|
Prune Juice + Butter | General constipation, gentle regularity |
Prune Juice + Lemon Juice | Morning detox, liver support |
Prune Juice + Olive Oil | Dairy-free, light laxative |
Prune Juice + Honey + Warm Water | Soothing, good before bed |
These variations offer flexibility for your taste preferences or dietary needs. You can rotate them throughout the week or stick to the prune juice and butter recipe when you want fast, reliable relief.
Looking for a cozy meal after your remedy? Our creamy mashed cauliflower is smooth, comforting, and easy on the stomach.
And if you’re craving a lighter veggie-based dish, check out our shiitake mushrooms guide for an earthy, gut-boosting side.
Alternative Homemade Laxatives That Work Immediately
Quick-Acting Remedies You Can Prepare at Home
While the prune juice and butter recipe is one of the most dependable natural remedies, sometimes you need an option that works even faster—or offers a change of pace when you want to rotate your methods. The good news? There are several homemade laxatives that deliver relief within hours using simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
Here are some top quick-acting alternatives:
- Warm Water + Lemon + Olive Oil: This trio helps stimulate bile flow, improve hydration, and gently push waste through your digestive tract. Drink it on an empty stomach for best results.
- Baking Soda and Warm Water: Though not tasty, this remedy can neutralize stomach acid and act as a mild laxative. Use with caution and not regularly, as it may affect your pH levels.
- Flaxseed Tea: Boil ground flaxseeds in water, strain, and sip the resulting gel. Rich in fiber and omega-3s, flax promotes smooth, easy elimination.
- Aloe Vera Juice (Unsweetened): Aloe has a strong laxative effect and can work within 4–6 hours. Stick to a small serving and only use occasionally.
Still prefer something more comforting? Stick with the prune juice and butter recipe, especially if you’re sensitive to stronger laxatives. It’s safe, natural, and less likely to cause sudden urgency.
Looking for a veggie-rich dish to follow any cleansing drink? Check out our grilled portobello mushrooms—a flavorful, high-fiber side.
Safety Precautions and Natural Combinations
Even natural remedies come with some rules. It’s important not to overuse any homemade laxative—whether it’s the prune juice and butter recipe or a quick detox combo—because regular misuse may lead to dependency or electrolyte imbalances.
Here are some smart safety tips to keep in mind:
- Stay hydrated. All laxatives, especially fiber-based ones, need water to work properly. Aim for at least 8 glasses daily.
- Avoid doubling up. Don’t mix multiple laxatives at once—it can cause cramping or dehydration.
- Use remedies occasionally. These should support, not replace, a fiber-rich diet and healthy habits.
- Listen to your body. If you don’t feel relief within 24 hours, don’t keep increasing the dose. Try walking, hydrating, or fiber-rich meals before turning to another remedy.
Don’t miss our spicy meatballs recipes guide for a fiber-meets-protein combo that’s easy on digestion and delicious after your gut has settled.

Who Should Use This Remedy?
Suitability Across Age Groups and Conditions
The prune juice and butter recipe is one of the few natural remedies that’s gentle enough for multiple age groups, yet effective enough to deliver results. Its simple ingredients make it a go-to option for people looking for a non-habit-forming solution to occasional constipation. Still, like all remedies, it’s not for everyone, and understanding who can benefit most is key to using it safely.
✅ Ideal for:
- Adults and Seniors: This group often struggles with slower digestion. The prune juice and butter recipe offers a non-irritating way to promote regularity, especially in those taking medications that slow gut movement.
- Teens and Older Children (12+): Under parental supervision, teens can benefit from this remedy during travel, stress, or post-surgery recovery when digestion stalls.
- Postpartum Mothers: After childbirth, bowel movements can become uncomfortable or infrequent. This gentle remedy can support healthy recovery without harsh chemicals.
Discover great ideas like our egg white omelette guide, perfect for postpartum or light eating routines that support digestion.
❌ Not Ideal for:
- Children under 6: Always consult a pediatrician before giving prune juice or butter to younger children. They require different dosages and nutritional balance.
- Individuals with gallbladder issues: Since butter stimulates bile production, those with gallstones or recent gallbladder removal should avoid using the prune juice and butter recipe without medical advice.
- People with chronic GI conditions: If you have Crohn’s, IBS, or ulcerative colitis, consult your doctor before trying this or any laxative-style remedy.
Looking for a gentle vegetable-based meal post-remedy? Our broccoli cheese casserole is satisfying, fiber-rich, and easy on the stomach.
When to Consult a Doctor Before Trying
Even natural remedies like the prune juice and butter recipe should be used with care in certain cases. It’s always a good idea to speak with your doctor or a dietitian if:
- You have a history of gastrointestinal issues or digestive surgery.
- You’re currently on medication that affects bowel function.
- You’ve experienced prolonged constipation (3+ days with no bowel movement).
- You’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or managing a chronic illness.
If you’re interested in how traditional flavors support digestion, don’t miss our moroccan lamb meatballs—packed with warming spices that may naturally stimulate appetite and digestion.
Side Effects and Safety Tips
Common Side Effects of Overuse
While the prune juice and butter recipe is one of the gentlest constipation remedies available, it’s still important to use it wisely. Just because it’s natural doesn’t mean you can take unlimited amounts without consequence.
Here are some potential side effects from overusing the remedy:
- Loose stools or diarrhea: Too much sorbitol from prune juice can draw excessive water into the colon, leading to urgency or watery stools.
- Abdominal cramping: This can occur if the butter or fiber moves through your system too quickly, especially if taken on a very empty stomach.
- Gas and bloating: Your body might need a few days to adjust to the fiber and sugar content in prune juice, particularly if you’re not used to high-fiber foods.
That’s why it’s best to stick to a once-a-day serving of the prune juice and butter recipe, unless otherwise directed by a healthcare provider. For sensitive stomachs, you can start with half the portion and increase gradually.
Looking for a post-remedy snack that won’t upset your gut? Don’t miss our ricotta cheesecake—light, creamy, and surprisingly easy to digest.
Ensuring Safe and Effective Usage of the Remedy
To get all the benefits of the prune juice and butter recipe without any of the discomfort, follow these simple safety tips:
- Start small: If it’s your first time using the remedy, begin with a half-portion to see how your body reacts.
- Stay hydrated: Drink at least 8–10 glasses of water daily. Fiber without fluid can actually worsen constipation.
- Don’t use it daily long-term: This is a short-term remedy, not a replacement for a high-fiber diet. Aim for consistent bowel health through whole foods.
- Don’t combine with OTC laxatives: Doing so may overstimulate your system and lead to dehydration or dependency.
As always, listen to your body. The prune juice and butter recipe is meant to support you—not stress your digestive system. Use it mindfully, and it can remain a reliable tool in your natural health toolkit.
After your system resets, fuel up with our chicken stir-fry—an energizing meal that’s full of veggies, protein, and easy on digestion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What do prune juice and butter do?
When combined, prune juice and butter create a powerful yet gentle natural laxative. Prune juice is rich in fiber and sorbitol, which help soften stool and stimulate bowel movement. Butter, on the other hand, contains healthy fat that activates bile flow and lubricates the intestines. Together, they form the prune juice and butter recipe—a soothing and effective remedy for occasional constipation.
This blend works with your body’s natural digestive rhythms and can provide relief in as little as a few hours.
What can I mix with prune juice for constipation?
While the prune juice and butter recipe is one of the most effective options, there are several other ingredients that mix well with prune juice to enhance its laxative effect:
Lemon juice: Helps with detox and stimulates digestion.
Olive oil: Acts as a plant-based fat alternative to butter.
Raw honey: Soothes the gut and adds flavor.
Warm water: Helps to flush the system and hydrate the colon.
These additions can be rotated or combined to meet your taste and digestive needs. However, many people stick with the classic prune juice and butter recipe because of its consistent results.
What mixes well with prune juice?
Prune juice mixes well with ingredients that boost digestion and gut health. If you’re not using the butter version, try combining it with:
Ginger tea
Coconut oil
Apple cider vinegar (ACV)
Chia seeds (soaked)
Each combination serves a slightly different purpose—from soothing inflammation to improving stool bulk. But for a reliable, fast-acting remedy, the prune juice and butter recipe remains a top choice.
For a balanced follow-up meal, our mashed cauliflower pairs well with most cleansing routines.
What is a homemade laxative that works right away?
One of the best homemade laxatives for fast relief is the prune juice and butter recipe. Taken on an empty stomach—preferably in the morning—it typically stimulates bowel movement within 4 to 8 hours.
Other quick-acting homemade laxatives include:
Warm lemon water with olive oil
Flaxseed tea
Aloe vera juice
Baking soda with water (used cautiously)
Still, the prune juice and butter recipe stands out because it’s safe, easy to prepare, and less likely to cause cramping or urgency compared to stronger alternatives.
Looking for a gentle, high-fiber meal post-cleansing? Try our keto eggplant parmesan—rich in flavor and easy on your system.
Conclusion
When your body is out of sync, it’s amazing how something as simple as the prune juice and butter recipe can bring things back into balance. With just two everyday ingredients, this remedy offers fast, gentle, and natural relief—no synthetic additives, no harsh side effects, and no complicated prep.
Whether you’re dealing with occasional constipation, adjusting to a new routine, or just looking for a natural digestive reset, this recipe delivers. Thanks to the fiber and sorbitol in prune juice, combined with the lubricating fats in butter, your body gets the support it needs to restore regularity and feel lighter.
And the best part? It works with your body—not against it. It’s easy to make, soothing to drink, and effective enough that many people make it part of their monthly wellness routine.
So the next time you feel backed up or bloated, skip the pharmacy run. Trust your kitchen. Trust the process. And trust this tried-and-true prune juice and butter recipe to get you going—literally.
Looking for a post-cleanse meal that satisfies without weighing you down? Don’t miss our caramelized onions guide—perfect for adding flavor and gut-friendly fiber to your plate.