Colon Cleansing Supplements

With all the colon cleansing herbs and supplements on the market, it can be a bit overwhelming. A healthy colon should empty two to three times per day, depending on how much you consume. (Light eaters may have only one bowel movement per day.) If bowel movements are less frequent, regular bowel cleansing with one or more herbs could help.

Psyllium Husk

• Psyllium husk is the primary herb used for colon cleansing, and the basis for many commercial laxatives. Psyllium, which comes from the plantain plant, is a powerful colon and intestinal cleanser. It provides bulk in the intestines, stimulating peristalsis (contraction of the colon). This helps remove toxins from the lining of your colon. It is generally used for acute and chronic constipation. It is considered safe for long-term use. However, because it swells in the digestive tract, take it with plenty of water; otherwise blockages may occur.

Cascara Sagrada

• Cascara sagrada is another common herb found in colon cleansing products. It stimulates secretions in the digestive tract, has a laxative effect and helps with regular bowel movements. It is also safe for long-term use. The herb senna is often used in laxative products along with cascara sagrada. Caution should be used with senna, as it is a powerful cathartic, and can cause gas, cramping and even diarrhea. It is also habit-forming and should not be used for more then 10 consecutive days. Cascara is a safe alternative to senna or products containing sennosides.

Black Walnut

• Black walnut is used in herbal medicine to kill parasites. It also has a mild laxative effect, and because of its anti-parasitic and antibacterial properties, it is an effective detoxifier. It helps reduce fatty acids in the bloodstream, as well as balance sugar levels. This herb should be used short term as part of a colon cleansing program.

Slippery Elm

• Slippery elm has many uses, including neutralizing stomach acid and absorbing gas. As a colon cleanser, it helps to draw out impurities, aids in digestion, and helps coat the stomach and colon by soothing mucous membranes. For these reasons, it is often used by herbalists to treat ulcers. This herb is considered safe for long-term use.

Aloe Vera

• Aloe vera is well known as a treatment for burns and injuries. It also has mild laxative properties. It is cleansing to the liver and entire digestive system. Additionally, it has been shown to have antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral effects, and therefore is beneficial to the immune system. The aloe vera plant can be juiced and consumed fresh. Bottled aloe vera juice and aloe vera tablets are also available in most health food stores. Though it is a powerful healer, it is safe for long-term use.

Buckthorn

• Buckthorn, a mild laxative, is found in many colon cleansing products. It has a calming effect on the gastrointestinal tract and is used for chronic constipation. It is considered safe for long-term use and for children.

Bentonite Clay

• This supplement is not an herb at all. As its name implies, it is a clay, found primarily in North America. Mixed with water, it is used in cleansing programs to absorb impurities. It helps draw out bacteria, poisons, pesticides, pathogens and parasites from the gastrointestinal tract. It should not be taken alone, but with psyllium or another fiber agent, as it can stick to the intestinal walls. Bentonite clay may also draw out minerals or other nutrients from the body, so it should not be used long term.