What is the main purpose of laxatives?

The primary purpose of laxatives is to regulate bowel movements. Laxatives are substances designed to facilitate the passage of stool through the intestines, thereby helping individuals who experience constipation or irregular bowel habits. By promoting bowel movement, laxatives can help ensure that waste is expelled from the body effectively, which is important for overall digestive health.

The other options relate to different health issues: alleviating headaches involves different treatments such as analgesics; relieving muscle pain typically requires anti-inflammatory medications or muscle relaxants; and enhancing memory involves cognitive enhancers or nootropic substances. Thus, the focus of laxatives specifically addresses bowel regulation, distinguishing it from the other health concerns mentioned.