What Are Some Colon Cleansing Tea Herbs?

Colon cleansing tea herbs can be used to increase bowel elimination and improve the function and tone of the bowels. These powerful herbs should only be used when necessary and should not take the place of a diet that promotes gastrointestinal health.

Herbs

• Cassia senna leaf, also known as senna, is a common herbal ingredient in natural colon cleansing teas. Senna is one of the strongest herbal laxatives used in teas, and it should not be used for more than seven days at a time.

  The dried bark of cascara sagrada (also known as California buckthorn, sacred bark and rhamnus purshiana) is a traditional herbal laxative with a long history of use by American Indians. This type of herb contains chemicals known as anthraquinones, which help to stimulate peristalsis, the muscle movements that stimulate elimination of the bowels.

  Dried barberry bark is a bitter herb that has mild laxative effects. This type of herb has been used for years by American Indians to increase appetite and resolve gastrointestinal disorders of both diarrhea and constipation.

  Green tea, produced from the leaves of Camellia sinensis, is one of the most popular and well-known ingredients in colon cleansing teas. The purported antioxidant properties of the herb, in addition to its high levels of vitamin C, are said to help cleanse the body of toxins.

  Chickweed, also known as tongue grass, mouse ear, starweed and satinflower, is a powerful natural herbal cleanser that promotes bowel movements in a matter of hours; it is also believed to have blood cleansing effects. Those who are interested in using chickweed tea as an herbal cleanser need to be cautious of this strong herb; chickweed has been known to cause allergic reactions in some people, and it can cause symptoms such as headache, dizziness and weakness if too much is taken.

  The leaves, root and stems of rhubarb are often added to herbal cleansing teas, due to this plant's purgative actions on the bowel through its anthraquinone constituents and cleansing actions on the blood through natural tannins ingredients.

How Often

• Herbal colon cleansing teas should all come with instructions on their usage, but as a general guideline, these strong herbs should be used sparingly and only when needed. If you are having difficulties with elimination of the bowels, dietary changes that include more fruits, vegetables and fiber are highly recommended.

Warnings

• Herbal ingredients can have very strong effects on the body; use with care. Pregnant or nursing mothers must talk with their doctor before using any herbs. Persons currently on prescription medications or who have underlying health conditions, such as diabetes or low blood pressure, should also seek the advice of their physician before using any type of colon cleansing tea.