Colon cleansing herbs are one of the most popular and effective methods to cleanse the colon. They’re convenient and easy to do. You can pick between pre-mixed formulas, single herbs, or a combination of several herbs together to rejuvenate and restore intestinal health.
Herbs have been used safely for centuries and work a little slower than enemas or colonics in detoxing the body; however, in time can achieve good results.
Different herbs perform different actions, and therefore produce different results, so it’s important to know what goal you would like to achieve when choosing your herbal colon cleansing product.
Some colon cleansing herbs like cascara sagrada work like a laxative, while other herbs such as peppermint stimulate digestion and peristalsis. Some perform a scrubbing action that eliminates fecal matter and prevents toxic build-up, and others kill harmful bacteria and parasites. While others soften the stool, add bulk, and improve the function of colon muscles that promotes healthy and regular bowel movements.
So if you’re wanting a product that strictly works as a laxative you will make a different choice in herbs than someone who is wanting to add bulk or kill parasites.
Many pre-mixed combinations also include other herbs that help flush and enhance the functioning of the liver and or kidneys as well. Most include some sort of herb that promotes bile flow and stimulates the liver.
Herbal colon cleansing products come in a variety of different forms which may include teas, tinctures, extracts, leaves, capsules, or powders.
Most Common Colon Cleansing Herbs
- Cascara Sagrada
- Chickweed
- Slippery Elm
- Senna
- Rhubarb
- Marshmallow root
- Psyllium
Three other very common and helpful herbs found in many colon cleansing formulas are fennel seed which enhances digestion, reduces gas, and relieves lower abdominal pain. Aloe vera, which soothes and heals the intestinal lining. And peppermint, which stimulates peristalsis and soothes the intestine.
If you’re looking for colon cleansing herbs that specifically kill parasites, then you would want to look for something like Black Walnut Hulls, Wormwood, Clove, Tea Tree Oil, Pumpkin Seed, or False Unicorn Root, which are some of the most effective for this goal.
Watch for Contraindications
Keep in mind that herbs are very powerful remedies and can have side effects and affect various health conditions. There can also be interactions with prescription drugs. If you’re taking any drugs, be sure to discuss this with your doctor before taking any herbal colon cleansing remedies. Consult your holistic physician for assistance with any medical conditions and how cleansing may impact them before using herbs of any kind.
Do not continue usage of a product if you develop diarrhea, excessively loose stools, or abdominal pain.
If you develop nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, cramping, joint pains, headache, rashes, irritation in the rectum area or just plain don’t feel good, you may be cleansing too quickly and your body may not be capable of dealing with it adequately. Discontinue usage if this occurs until you feel better and discuss it with your doctor.
Be sure to follow instructions on the labels and don’t use them too frequently. You can become dehydrated if you have too many bowel movements.
We’ve only touched on some of the most common choices here, there are way too many herbs to discuss them all. Determine what your particular needs are, do a great deal of research and then pick the colon cleansing herbs that fit your needs best.