Alumina is very effective in treating Dryness of mucous membranes. Constipation - no desire or no ability to pass stool until there is a large accumulation; great straining; must hold the seat tightly; stool is either hard and knotty with mucus, or soft and clay like, adhering to body; even soft stool requires straining. Constipation of children who are on artificial food, and old people due to muscular weakness and also in pregnancy. Paralytic weakness of the muscles in all parts of the body.