If you suffer from chronic gastrointestinal disturbances such as diarrhea or constipation, you may want to learn about different herbs that are used for internal cleansing to help you better alleviate--or possibly eradicate--your constant, unpleasant symptoms. Although many people around the world use numerous herbs to cleanse their digestive systems, you should talk to your conventional medical doctor about the benefits and drawbacks of herbs for internal cleansing before you use any of them to treat yourself or your family members at home.
Psyllium
Psyllium, also called ispaghula, originates from the husks of the Plantago ovata plant's seeds. Psyllium is a rich source of soluble dietary fiber and is the main ingredient in popular over-the-counter laxatives such as Metamucil, notes the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Psyllium increases the frequency of bowel movements as well as increases stool weight, a feat that helps remove built-up waste products and fecal matter from your intestines. Psyllium is available from online herbal retailers, health food stores and larger grocery stores. However, you must drink a lot of water when you take psyllium, says the American Cancer Society (ACS), to avoid having the herb block your throat or esophagus, which could cause choking. You must also drink a lot of water to help psyllium pass through your intestines to avoid constipation or stomach upset.
Slippery Elm Bark
Slippery Elm, also called Ulmus fulva, is indigenous to North America. When the plant's bark mixes with water, it creates a thick, slick gel that coats your entire digestive system upon contact. Slippery elm also contains antioxidants that alleviate inflammatory bowel conditions, says the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). Therefore, when you use slippery elm bark for internal cleansing, the herb can eradicate your pain while it helps to heal your chronic condition internal disturbances such as diarrhea, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis or GERD, gastroesophogeal reflux disease.
Flax Seeds
The plant flax, commercially grown to make linen garments, contains high amounts of fiber. Flax seeds are also fiber-rich and are widely used in over-the-counter herbal laxatives and colon cleansers. Flax seeds expand in your stomach when they come into contact with water, a feat that adds bulk to your stools and helps them move more quickly through your gastrointestinal tract, says the UMMC. You can eat flax seeds whole sprinkled over salads, yogurt or soft cheeses. You can also purchase or bake your own flax seed breads, muffins, cereals and breakfast bars to reap the benefits of the herbal internal cleanser.
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