Herbs for Colon Health

The colon is part of your large intestine and digestive tract. It plays a role in how foods are digested and how your body uses nutrients from the foods you consume. When your colon is healthy, it will help your body absorb viable nutrients and eliminate waste products with greater proficiency. You can keep your colon healthy by consuming a high-fiber, low calorie diet, but some herbs also can improve your colon's health.

Barberry Bark

• Barberry bark is commonly used to treat diarrhea, because it has powerful astringent properties. This herb contains berberine, a bacteria growth inhibitor and powerful immune booster. Barberry is also used to treat urinary tract infections and bladder infections, as well as gastrointestinal and respiratory tract conditions. Consume barberry bark as a tea. Steep 2 to 4 g. of the herb in 2/3 cup water for 15 minutes three times a day to alleviate diarrhea and promote colon health. Do not consume this herb for more than seven days without first consulting with your physician.

Cascara sagrada

• Cascara sagrada is a natural herbal laxative that helps to moisten and retrain the bowels if they are not working correctly. Thus, this herb helps keep your waste elimination processes in perfect order, and effectively cleans your colon. Cascara sagrada is a treatment for hemorrhoid formations, jaundice and liver conditions, as well as bladder and vaginal infections. This herb has a bitter flavor and can be consumed as a tincture; take ½ tsp. of the tincture just prior to going to bed. You can also consume cascara sagrada in capsule form; take one to two 425 mg. capsules at bedtime with an 8-ounce glass of water. Pregnant women should not take this herb, nor should it be used by individuals with abdominal pain or intestinal blockages.

Dandelion Leaves

• Dandelion leaves help detoxify your liver, and are commonly used to treat liver toxicity, hepatitis and cirrhosis. This herb naturally stimulates bile production in the liver, and helps to treat jaundice and gallstones. it is a natural diuretic, promotes the proper functioning of your immune system and purifies your blood. Finally, dandelion is a digestive aid and appetite stimulant, and it promotes the health of your intestines and colon. Steep 1-2 tsp. dandelion leaves in hot water for 15 minutes. Consume the beverage three times a day to promote colon health.

Slippery Elm

• Slippery elm creates mucilage when it is mixed with water; the mucilage helps to coat your stomach, colon and intestines. This herb aids in treating diarrhea, ulcers and gastrointestinal conditions. It also diminishes inflammation in your gastrointestinal tract, and can further alleviate inflammatory bowel issues. Make an infusion of slippery elm by soaking 1 oz. of the herb in 1 pint of cold water until you see the mucilaginous gel form. Consume 2 to 3 cups of the infusion daily to promote colon health. You can also consume this herb in capsule form by taking 800-1000 mg. three times a day with 8 oz. water.