Colon cleansing herbs are one of the most popular and effective, not to mention natural, methods of cleansing the colon. Aside from avoiding chemicals found in laxatives, these herbs are easy to use. A colon cleanse product or even a single herb can be used in restoring your intestinal health.

Herbs are Safe and Time Tested

For centuries, herbs have been used safely and though they may work a little slower than colonics or enemas in body detoxification, good results can still be achieved in time.

Different Herbs for Different Goals

Different herbs produce different results and perform different actions, so it’s very important to determine your goals first before choosing your herbal colon cleanse product. Some colon cleansing herbs like the cascada sagrada functions like a laxative, while other herbs like peppermint stimulate peristalsis and digestion. Other herbs acts as colon scrubbers, removing fecal matter and preventing toxic build up. Other herbs kill bacteria and parasites, soften the stool, and some even improve the function of colon muscles to promote regular and healthy bowel movements.

Most Common Colon Cleansing Herbs

Cascara Sagada

This herb has been used by the Native Americans and is one of the most popular colon cleansing herbs used today. It contains compounds called anthroquinones that works as a laxative and helps strengthen the colon wall’s muscles. This herb can be found in capsule form, liquid extract or as dried bark, which can then be made into a tea.

Chickweed

This is another great weed for relieving constipation and cleaning out the colon. This is a fast acting herb and would cause a bowel movement within several hours. It functions by flushing out the toxins and also improves the colon wall’s muscles in order to build long term constipation prevention.

Slippery Elm

The Slippery Elm is known as the ALL PURPOSE HERB since it’s effective for both diarrhea and constipation. It also normalizes the stool while coating and soothing the lining of the intestines. Drinking lots of water will provide the best results with this herb.

Senna

Senna is another strong herbal laxative with many supporters. It’s a very fast acting herb, inducing a bowel movement just shortly after intake. This is usually taken in tea form, functioning also as a purgative and stimulates peristaltic contractions; thereby moving the fecal matter out of the colon and cleansing naturally.

Rhubarb

Similar to the Cascara Sagada, this herb is also used in traditional Chinese medicines and also contains the compound Anthraquinones. It also contains another compound called Tannins, which is believed to effectively relieve diarrhea and colon inflammation. This is not the same Rhubarb plant that grew in your backyard when you were growing up.

Psyllium

This is probably the most popular herb found in colon cleansing products due to its fiber content and its ability to strengthen the intestinal linings. It contains a category of fiber called mucilage, which after entering the digestive tract, absorbs water. When it does this, it swells, making stools in the colon bulkier. This would trigger contractions of the colon walls and this would eventually lead to bowel movements.

Herbs Come With a Warning

Herbs are very powerful remedies and can have side effects. They can also interact with prescription drugs. If you’re taking in prescription medicine, consult with your holistic health provider before taking a colon cleanse product. Discontinue usage of the product if you develop diarrhea, excessively loose stools and/or abdominal pains. Developing nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, joint pains, rashes or just plain uncomfortable is a sign that your body is detoxifying too quickly. Discontinue usage until you feel better and then continue to cleanse using a smaller dosage. Be sure to follow instruction on the label to the letter and use sparingly. You will risk dehydration if you do not.