When life gets a little stuck, the prune juice and butter recipe is one of those time-tested home remedies that truly delivers. Simple, natural, and surprisingly effective, this two-ingredient drink offers gentle relief from constipation, without the need for harsh laxatives or synthetic supplements.
Whether it’s stress, travel, or just a sluggish system, this warm blend of 100% prune juice and real butter helps support your digestive rhythm and restore regularity in just a few hours. And yes, it really does work, just like grandma promised.
In this article, you’ll learn exactly how to make the prune juice and butter recipe, why it works so well, when to take it, who should use it, and even a few smart substitutions to fit any lifestyle.
Table of Contents
What is the Prune Juice and Butter Recipe?
Understanding the Old-Fashioned Remedy
At its heart, the prune juice and butter recipe is about bringing things back to basics and sometimes, that’s exactly what your body needs. This soothing drink has just two ingredients: 100% prune juice and a tablespoon of unsalted butter. But don’t let its simplicity fool you. Together, these two pantry staples create a dynamic blend of fiber, sorbitol, and healthy fat that work synergistically to gently stimulate your digestive system.
What makes this remedy different from harsh laxatives is that it’s food-based, comforting, and surprisingly fast-acting, often providing relief in as little as 4 to 8 hours.
This drink has been a go-to in homes for decades, especially for kids, postpartum moms, and grandparents who preferred to heal naturally, not chemically. It’s the kind of thing your grandma might have whispered over the stove with a knowing smile.
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Prune Juice and Butter Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
Description
Prune juice and butter recipe for fast, gentle constipation relief. A 5-minute, natural solution passed down from Grandma, no harsh laxatives needed.
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 blended.
- Let it cool slightly to a safe drinking temperature.
- Sip slowly on an empty stomach, ideally in the morning or before bed.
- Optionally, follow with a glass of warm water to aid digestion.
Notes
- Best taken once per day as needed.
- Relief typically occurs within 4 to 8 hours.
- Do not exceed 2 servings per day to avoid discomfort.
- For a dairy-free version, swap butter with 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil.
- Add-ins like lemon juice, ginger, or chia seeds can enhance digestion and flavor.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Category: Natural Remedy
- Method: Heated
- Cuisine: Natural Health
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup drink
- Calories: 130 kcal
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 15 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 2.5 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
Recommended
Why Prune Juice and Butter Work Together
Let’s break down the brilliance of this duo:
| Ingredient | What It Does | Why It Helps Constipation |
|---|---|---|
| Prune Juice | Contains sorbitol (a natural sugar alcohol) and fiber | Draws water into the colon, softens stool, and increases bulk |
| Butter | Adds healthy fat, stimulates bile flow | Acts as a natural lubricant, promotes gut motility |
When consumed warm and on an empty stomach, this drink gently encourages your intestines to move things along. The warmth helps relax the digestive tract, making it more receptive to the action of the prune juice and butter.
It’s a beautifully balanced blend, hydrating, softening, and stimulating, all in one soothing mug.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Core Ingredients: Prune Juice and Butter
The best thing about the prune juice and butter recipe is how incredibly simple it is. You don’t need fancy supplements, powders, or special equipment, just two pantry staples and five quiet minutes in the kitchen.
Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Amount | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Prune Juice | 1 cup (8 oz) | Choose 100% pure prune juice, with no added sugars or preservatives. It’s packed with sorbitol, a natural sugar alcohol that gently draws water into the colon to soften stool and promote movement. |
| Unsalted Butter | 1 tablespoon | Go with grass-fed butter if possible. The fat helps stimulate bile from the liver, which naturally encourages gut motility and acts as a smooth “lubricant” for digestion. |
Together, these two ingredients form a beautifully balanced natural remedy, hydrating, nourishing, and supportive of healthy digestion.
Substitutions: Vegan, Dairy-Free, and Flavor Add-Ons
Want to tweak the recipe to suit your dietary preferences or add a little variety? No problem. Here are some practical and safe substitutions to customize your prune juice and butter recipe without compromising its effectiveness.
Dairy-Free/Vegan Alternative
If you’re avoiding dairy, extra virgin olive oil is the top swap. It has similar healthy fats and a mild flavor.
- Swap: 1 tablespoon unsalted butter → 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- Benefit: Still triggers bile release and eases stool passage without animal fats
Flavor Boosts with Benefits
These optional additions not only make the drink tastier but also bring extra digestive perks:
| Optional Add-In | Amount | Digestive Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh Lemon Juice | 1 teaspoon | Stimulates bile flow, boosts vitamin C |
| Fresh Grated Ginger | ½ teaspoon | Reduces bloating, calms the digestive tract |
| Raw Honey | ½–1 teaspoon | Soothes gut lining, adds natural sweetness |
| Chia Seeds (soaked) | ½ teaspoon | Adds fiber, supports regularity |
Just stir these in once your prune juice and butter (or olive oil) blend is warm and mixed. For chia seeds, let the mixture rest 2–3 minutes before sipping.
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
How to Make the Prune Juice and Butter Recipe
I can’t tell you how many times this little drink has saved me, or someone in my family when everything felt… backed up. Prune juice and butter juice is comfortable, direct and shockingly effective. If you’ve got five minutes and two ingredients, you’ve got yourself a natural solution that your grandma would probably nod at with pride.
Here’s exactly how I make this prune juice and butter recipe in my kitchen, and how I’ve taught friends, neighbors, and even curious readers to make it in theirs.
Ingredients You’ll Need (Just Two, I Promise)
| What | How Much | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| 100% Prune Juice | 1 cup (8 oz) | Rich in fiber and sorbitol, which gently ease the system. |
| Unsalted Butter | 1 tablespoon | Healthy fat helps stimulate bile and gets things moving. |
Note: I prefer grass-fed butter when I have it on hand, it adds a lovely depth and melts like a dream.
Let’s Make It (Warm, Simple, and Soul-Soothing)
- Gently warm the juice
Pour the prune juice into a small saucepan or a cozy mug. If you are using the stove, heat it slowly – just until it is hot enough to melt the butter. A microwave works too about 60 to 90 seconds should do the trick. - Melt in the butter
Drop in that tablespoon of unsalted butter and give it a stir. It’ll glide into the juice like silk, creating this warm, glossy mixture that smells like something nurturing is about to happen. - Cool it down a smidge
Let the mixture rest for a minute. You want it warm, not scalding. Like a hug in a mug, not a burn on your tongue. - Sip slowly and thoughtfully
Take it slow. One warm sip at a time on an empty stomach, either first thing in the morning or before bed. Trust me, your gut will appreciate the gentle approach. - Follow with a small glass of warm water (optional, but helpful)
A bit of extra hydration can really support the fiber in doing its job, and helps keep things flowing without discomfort.
Little Mistakes to Avoid (Trust Me, I’ve Been There)
Let’s keep this real: I’ve rushed this prune juice and butter recipe, overheated it, even doubled the butter once (don’t do that). So, here’s what to not do when making this:
- Don’t boil it – Overheating the juice can make it taste bitter and actually reduce its soothing power. Warm is wonderful. Boiling? Not so much.
- Don’t guzzle – This isn’t a quick chug-and-go. Sip it slowly like you’re giving your digestive system time to say, “Thank you.”
- Don’t overdo the dose – One cup a day is all you need. Doubling up can make you a little too familiar with your bathroom.
- Don’t forget water – Especially if you’re prone to dryness or dehydration, drinking water afterward helps everything move as it should.
The prune juice and butter recipe isn’t just about relief, it’s about comfort, nourishment, and respecting the rhythm of your digestion.
How Prune Juice and Butter Aid Digestion
Why This Natural Combo Works (Backed by Gut Science & Grandma)
Now, I’m not a doctor but I am a mom who’s spent years learning what works in real life, not just on a label. And let me tell you, this prune juice and butter recipe works because it combines gentle science with old-fashioned wisdom in the best way.
Let’s unpack why the prune juice and butter recipe is so good for your bellyespecially when it’s feeling a little sluggish.
The Power of Prune Juice: Nature’s Original Laxative
The prune juice in this prune juice and butter recipe isn’t just for seniors or baby food aisles—it’s a nutritional powerhouse for digestion.
| Nutrient | What It Does |
|---|---|
| Sorbitol | A natural sugar alcohol that pulls water into the colon helps soften stool. |
| Dietary Fiber | Adds bulk and helps your body form and pass a comfortable bowel movement. |
| Potassium | Supports muscle function in the gut, which helps things keep moving. |
Sorbitol works kind of like a sponge, it draws water into your intestines so things don’t get hard or stuck. The fiber provides bulk, and the natural sugars help your gut stay active without causing cramps.
Why the Butter Makes All the Difference
You might be wondering: “Why butter?” I did too until I tried it.
Here’s why that little scoop of fat is key:
- Stimulates Bile Production: Fat tells your liver to release bile, a natural digestive fluid that gets things moving in your intestines.
- Lubricates the Gut: It acts like a gentle coat along your digestive tract, making everything a little smoother.
- Pairs Well with Warmth: When consumed warm, butter helps relax the intestinal muscles—like a cozy signal to “let go.”
The result? Your body moves gently, predictably, and naturally no harsh laxatives, no surprise sprints to the bathroom.
When and How to Take This Remedy
Timing It Right: When Your Gut’s Ready to Listen
Here’s the thing about natural remedies: it’s not just what you take, it’s when you take it. And when it comes to the prune juice and butter recipe, you’ll get the best results by giving your body a little quiet time to receive it.
After years of making this warm, trusty drink for myself and others, I’ve found two sweet spots that seem to work like clockwork.
Mornings (Right Before Life Gets Loud)
First thing in the morning before emails, coffee, or the chaos of breakfast, is prime time. Your stomach is calm, your digestion is fresh, and this little drink can slide right in and start gently nudging things along. Most folks I’ve shared this with feel movement by late morning or early afternoon.
Evenings (The Wind-Down Hour)
If your mornings are more “lost shoe and spilled milk” than peaceful wellness ritual, don’t stress. Drinking the prune juice and butter recipe before bed works beautifully too. Your body continues its magic while you sleep, and by morning, things tend to… flow.
Personally, I use the prune juice and butter recipe most at night, usually with a warm robe, a quiet moment, and a house that’s finally still.
Don’t miss our natural zepbound drink recipe—another gentle option to pair with your evening routine.
How Much Should You Take? Keep It Light and Simple
This isn’t one of those “more is more” situations. One cup is all you need to start. This remedy was built on calm simplicity, not urgency.
Here’s what I recommend based on who’s sipping:
| Who’s It For? | How Much? | What to Know |
|---|---|---|
| Grown-ups | 1 cup juice + 1 tbsp butter | Once a day; max twice if needed |
| Teens (13–17) | ¾ cup juice + ½ tbsp butter | Keep it occasional; monitor results |
| Kids (6–12) | ½ cup juice + ½ tbsp butter | Only with your pediatrician’s blessing |
| New mamas or expecting moms | ½–1 cup + ½ tbsp butter | Please chat with your doctor first—especially if nursing |
Water is your best friend here. After your warm drink, always follow with a glass of warm water to support hydration and fiber movement. I can’t stress this enough, it makes the difference between gentle relief and, well… sitting and waiting.
When Will It Work?
Ah, the golden question: “Katie, how fast does it kick in?”
Well, in my house (and in dozens of email conversations with readers), here’s what usually happens:
- If you’re hydrated and your gut’s semi-cooperative, you’ll feel things moving in 4 to 8 hours.
- Some lucky folks feel a shift in 2–3.
- If your digestion’s been stubborn for a while, you might need to try it for a couple of nights or mornings in a row.
And just like that, your body starts remembering how to do its job naturally, thanks to the support of this simple prune juice and butter recipe. No chemicals. No rushing. No panic.
Simple Tips for Smooth Results
Here’s what I always tell my sisters, girlfriends, and that sweet elderly neighbor who’s become like family:
- Warm, not boiling – Too hot and you lose the comfort factor and the nutrients.
- Slow sips win – Don’t chug this like it’s a challenge. Let it settle with you.
- No tag-teaming – Please don’t mix this with other laxatives. Give it the stage.
- One day at a time – This isn’t something you need every single day. Let your body reset, then rest.
This prune juice and butter recipe is more than a fix, it’s a tiny act of self-care. It’s the body saying, “Thanks for being patient. I’ve got this now.”
And that’s the goal, right? To feel more like you again. Comfortable. Calm. And in control of what’s going on inside.
Who Should Use This Remedy (And Who Shouldn’t)
The prune juice and butter recipe is one of those old-school fixes that works for a lot of folks—but like anything, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Let’s break down who should reach for it, and who might want to pause and check with their doctor first.
Who Can Safely Use It
This warm, natural remedy is a great fit for:
- Adults dealing with occasional constipation from travel, stress, or diet
- Teens who may struggle with irregular digestion during busy routines
- Postpartum moms needing gentle relief (with doctor’s approval)
- Older adults who want a non-medicated way to stay regular
The beauty of the prune juice and butter recipe is that it uses real food to support real digestion—without the side effects of harsh store-bought laxatives.
Who Should Be Cautious
While the recipe is mild, some people should steer clear or check with a professional:
- Children under 6 – Their systems are more sensitive. Always consult a pediatrician.
- People with gallbladder issues – Since butter stimulates bile, it may cause discomfort.
- Anyone with chronic GI conditions – If you live with IBS, Crohn’s, or ulcerative colitis, speak with your provider first.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women – It may be safe, but double-check with your OB-GYN just to be sure.
Quick Rule of Thumb
If your gut’s just feeling a little off, the prune juice and butter recipe can be a wonderful, food-based nudge. But if something feels deeper or more serious, listen to your body—and talk to your doctor before trying anything new.
Grandma’s Other Natural Constipation Remedies
I’ll always have a soft spot for the prune juice and butter recipe, it’s my go-to when things slow down and I need a little nudge without any fuss. But just like most grandmas had more than one cookie recipe, they also had a few different tricks for getting your digestion back on track—especially before store-bought laxatives were a thing.
If the prune juice and butter recipe isn’t available, or you’re just curious about other natural ways to “get going,” these are the gentle remedies I turn to time and time again.
Olive Oil + Warm Lemon Water
This was my grandma’s go-to for mornings when things felt stuck but she didn’t want anything heavy. A tablespoon of olive oil, some warm water, and a squeeze of lemon. That’s it.
It’s smooth, hydrating, and helps get your digestion going without any drama. Plus, it’s perfect if you’re dairy-free and not using butter.
Flaxseeds in Oatmeal or Smoothies
Ground flaxseeds are little powerhouses. My mom would sneak a spoonful into my oatmeal growing up, probably because she knew I needed help in the “regularity” department.
They’re rich in fiber and great for bulking up stool naturally. Stir a tablespoon into something warm, or toss it in a smoothie and give it a few hours to do its quiet work.
Herbal Teas (Ginger, Peppermint, or Fennel)
My favorite part of bedtime growing up was when Grandma would say, “Let’s make some tea.” Ginger helped calm my stomach. Peppermint felt cooling and comforting. Fennel? A little earthy, but it worked.
Warm tea before bed doesn’t just soothe your gut, it signals your body to relax and reset.
Stewed Prunes or Puree
If prune juice isn’t your jam, good news, you can eat your remedy instead. Stewed prunes or blended prune puree give you the same benefits as the prune juice and butter recipe, but in a spoonable form.
Top it on toast, stir it into yogurt, or enjoy it warm with cinnamon. It’s honestly delicious.
Banana-Chia Gut Smoothie
Not traditional, but very effective. One ripe banana, a spoon of chia seeds, and almond milk. Blend it, let it sit for 10 minutes so the chia thickens, then sip it slowly. It’s light, full of fiber, and kid-approved in my house.
Water + Walking = Underrated Magic
You don’t need to overhaul your life, sometimes a glass of warm water and a walk around the block do more than you think. Every grandma I’ve ever known said the same thing: “Keep moving, keep sipping, and you’ll be just fine.”
And 99% of the time? She was right.
So yes, the prune juice and butter recipe is my go-to. But when I want variety, or when the fridge is bare, I turn to these time-tested tricks, because nature gave us more than one way to feel better.
Tips to Improve Digestive Health Naturally
Once the prune juice and butter recipe does its thing, and it usually does you might be wondering how to keep digestion smooth without needing a fix every time. The good news? You don’t need a total lifestyle overhaul just a few gentle shifts.
Start Your Day Warm
Warm lemon water, herbal tea, or your prune juice and butter recipe, anything warm and soothing helps wake your gut up naturally. It’s one of the easiest things you can do for your belly before the chaos kicks in.
Walk After Meals
Even 5–10 minutes of slow movement can help. It doesn’t need to be a workout, just a little nudge for your digestion to keep things flowing, especially after dinner.
Eat More (Soft, Friendly) Fiber
Think oats, bananas, flaxseed, and chia. Slowly increase fiber and always pair it with water. That way, you’re supporting what the prune juice and butter recipe started, without shocking your system.
Hydrate Throughout the Day
Small sips > big gulps. Staying hydrated helps stool stay soft and easy to pass. I keep a glass of water near me all day it’s an easy win.
Set a Bathroom Routine
Try sitting on the toilet the same time each day, even if nothing’s happening yet. Your body thrives on routine. This pairs beautifully with the prune juice and butter recipe when used in the morning or before bed.
You don’t need to rely on pills, powders, or panic. With a few small changes, plus the comfort of your prune juice and butter recipe when needed, your gut can stay happy, steady, and stress-free.
FAQs About the Prune Juice and Butter Recipe
Is prune juice and butter a good laxative?
Yes, the prune juice and butter recipe is a gentle, natural laxative that’s been used for generations. The fiber and sorbitol in prune juice soften stool, while the butter stimulates bile and helps move things along smoothly. It’s effective without being harsh, and much kinder to your gut than most over-the-counter options.
How much butter should I add to prune juice?
The standard amount for the prune juice and butter recipe is 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter per 1 cup (8 oz) of prune juice. This balance works well for most adults. If you’re just starting or are sensitive to fats, you can begin with half a tablespoon and adjust from there.
How quickly does prune juice and butter work?
Most people feel results within 4 to 8 hours of drinking the prune juice and butter recipe, especially when taken on an empty stomach. Some folks notice relief as early as 2 hours later. For best results, follow with a glass of warm water and stay lightly active.
What is Grandma’s remedy for constipation?
This is it the classic prune juice and butter recipe. No pills, powders, or artificial ingredients. Just a warm, simple blend passed down through generations to ease constipation gently and naturally.
Conclusion: A Simple Sip Toward Feeling Better
Sometimes, the best solutions really are the simplest. The prune juice and butter recipe isn’t flashy or complicated, it’s just warm, familiar, and quietly effective. It reminds us that our kitchens often hold the answers our bodies need.
Whether you’re recovering from travel, adjusting after childbirth, or just feeling a little backed up from life’s chaos, this recipe gives you a safe, gentle way to find relief, without relying on chemicals, pills, or stress.
And the best part? It’s not just a remedy. It’s a reminder that you’re allowed to slow down, nourish yourself, and let nature work her magic. One warm cup at a time.
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Thanks for reading, and I hope this prune juice and butter recipe becomes as much a part of your real-life remedy box as it is mine.