Herbs for Colon Health

The colon, also referred to as the large intestine, performs a primary function of the digestive system. The colon is connected to the small intestine and works to absorb water and substances from food, sending waste out of the body. Making sure your colon is healthy keeps the organ from developing abnormal digestive problems and diseases. A variety of herbal remedies can help with colon health.

Peppermint

Although generally known as a popular flavor for some foods, gum and toothpaste, you can also use peppermint as a colon health aid. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, peppermint calms stomach muscles and improves the flow of bile, which the body needs to digest fats. As a result of peppermint, food flows through the stomach faster. The Medical Center website notes that peppermint capsules appear to help treat symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome, such as pain, bloating, gas and diarrhea. However, UMMC cautions against taking peppermint if you have gastroesophageal reflux disease, as your symptoms could worsen.

Flax

Flax, according to the "Natural Geographic Desk Reference to Nature's Medicine," is one of the world's oldest crop plants, having been harvested in ancient times by the Mesopotamians and Egyptians. Since the Middle Ages, cultures have used flax seeds to treat constipation. Today, the plant is still used for this purpose, known for calming IBS and acting as a gentle laxative. It is also effective against diverticulitis, a condition characterized by swelling of the intestinal wall. Seeds are sold whole or as capsules with extracted seed oil.

Rosemary

Rosemary is considered a multi-use herb, used for everything from wedding bouquet decorations to soap ingredients to headache treatments. In the U.S, rosemary is widely used as a dietary supplement. According to the "National Geographic Desk Reference to Nature's Medicine," you can also use rosemary to prevent and soothe indigestion. UMMC notes that in Europe, the German Commission E, which examines the safety and efficacy of herbs, has approved the use of rosemary leaf to treat indigestion.