By convention, specific symbols represent certain sample statistics. For example, 1  x refers to a sample mean. 2  s refers to the standard deviation of a sample. 3  s 2 refers to the variance of a sample. 4  p refers to the proportion of sample elements that have a particular attribute.
As the name implies, lubricant laxatives make stools slippery. The mineral oil within these products adds a slick layer to the intestine's walls and stops the stool from drying out. Though highly effective, lubricant laxatives are best used as a short-term cure for constipation. Over a longer period, mineral oil can absorb fat-soluble vitamins from the intestine, and decrease certain prescription drugs from being fully absorbed into the body.
4 Reviews. The mineral oil that's used as medicine is a very refined, clear liquid distilled from petroleum. It's available over-the-counter (OTC) to treat a variety of ailments, including constipation, minor skin irritations, scalp conditions, ear-wax buildup, and others.ineral Oil for Constipation. Mineral oil is commonly used as a laxative. For this purpose, the oil can be taken by mouth or applied in the rectum in an enema, although there are different products for each. Mineral oil works as a laxative in two ways: It helps your stool retain water, and it acts as a lubricant.