At least as big a help as stool softeners which I now love and cherish. If you are unable to get food bitters there are also bitter tonics available in health food stores. The pills are dubious to me because it is the taste of the bitter that sets things in motion. My local physician has knowledge of me and my body and past history. He has no trouble with the things I have mentioned for me.
Herbs can be very powerful and have many effects.
Any given herb may not be right for you even if it's ok for me. Consulting a herbalists in your area may be a good idea. Often the two streams of health are at odds. Things to do besides read in the sitz bath. Two of my best friends are studying Traditional Chinese Medicine and acupuncture.