Companies that manufacture colon detox supplements claim that the colon traps toxins that can worsen symptoms of conditions as varied as arthritis, allergies and asthma. Whether these supplements are helpful or hurtful has yet to be determined, according to the Mayo Clinic. The ingredients used in colon cleansers, for the most part, are tested and acknowledged for having beneficial activity in the intestinal tract.
Cascara Sagrada
The Mayo Clinic reports that cascara is a powerful oral laxative. It stimulates bowel movements and removes moisture from the intestines, helping to bulk loose stools. Cascara sagrada is an herb that contains chemicals called anthraquinones, which is also found in other colon-cleansing ingredients like aloe vera and senna. Anthraquinones can help purge toxins in the intestines by causing contractions. Its main function, according to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York City is to relieve constipation.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a tropical plant with pulpy leaves that yield a gel with a variety of soothing skin and gastrointestinal properties. The Mayo Clinic reports that dried latex from the aloe leaf is used as an oral laxative by stimulating bowel movements and removing water from the intestines. For some people, aloe can cause painful cramping. Cascara sagrada and senna are herbs recommended as a first-line of defense in treating constipation before using the more powerful aloe.
Chamomile
Chamomile, an herb derived from a flower, is popularly used in teas for its relaxing effect on the intestines. The National Institutes of Health reports that chamomile can relieve nausea, upset stomach, gas and diarrhea. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) funded research indicating that chamomile may relieve chronic pain caused by bowel disorders in children.
Flaxseed
In 2008, the NCCAM issued a comprehensive report on American's use of complimentary alternative therapies. Flaxseed was on the list of the most used nonvitamin, nonmineral, natural products taken by children and adults for health reasons. The most common use for flaxseed is as a laxative. Flaxseed contains soluble fiber, which is the non-digestive portion of plant-based foods, helps stimulate digestion. It's well tolerated and has few side effects.
Psyllium
Psyllium is another herb that tops the list of nonvitamin, nonmineral, natural products taken by adults and children for health reasons. Psyllium is a seed from the Plantago ovata plant. It's also found in over-the-counter laxatives like Metamucil and Serutan. Psyllium is known to increase fat in the stool, decrease symptoms of stomach cramps and pain, and treat diarrhea. Psyllium is also added to some bran cereals, including Bran Buds and Healthwise, to aid in gastro regularity.
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