Ten Most Important Herbs for Colon Cleansing

Ten Most Important Herbs for Colon Cleansing
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Colon cleansing is the process of removing excess waste and toxins from the colon. According to "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," by James F. Balch, M.D. and Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C., many researchers and nutritionists believe that colon cleansing can aid in the prevention and treatment of various health problems. Some herbs are reputed for being highly beneficial in the colon cleansing process. Consult with a health care professional before beginning a colon cleansing program.

Slippery Elm

According to "The Healing Herbs," by Michael Castleman, slippery elm bark was originally used by first-century Greek physicians for the treatment of broken bones. "Prescription for Nutritional Healing" states that slippery elm is beneficial at removing excess waste from the colon and reducing inflammation during the colon cleansing process. Consult with a health care professional before using slippery elm.

Fennel

Fennel is used in colon cleansing to flush excess waste from the colon, restore the colon's acid/alkaline balance and to promote healing. According to "Herbal Medicine," by Dian Dincin Buchman, Ph.D., You can take fennel by steeping crushed leaves and stems in a tea. Consult with your doctor before using fennel.

Echinacea

Echinacea is a detoxifying herb and is important to the colon cleansing process. According to "The Natural Health Bible," by Lisha Simester, echinacea also is reputed to boost the immune system. Talk to your doctor before using echinacea.

Psyllium Husks

Psyllium husks are reputed to be important to the colon cleansing process. The insoluble fiber in psyllium husks loosens build-up in the colon and aids in flushing out soluble fiber, which can absorb and hold toxins in the bowel. "Detox," by Sara Rose. suggests taking psyllium capsules on an empty stomach. Always consult with your physician before beginning a colon cleanse.

Aloe Vera

According to "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," aloe vera promotes the healing process and aids in the restoration of the acid/alkaline balance of the colon. Aloe vera is available in both juice and supplement form and is believed to have many skin benefits in addition to its use in colon cleansing. Talk to your doctor before ingesting aloe vera.

Pau d'arco

"Prescription for Nutritional Healing" states tha pau d'arco can be used during colon cleansing to remove toxins from the body, restore the acid/alkaline balance and to promote healing. Speak with your physician before using pau d'arco to cleanse the colon.

Garlic

According to "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," garlic can be used to remove parasites from the body during the colon cleansing process. Always consult with a physician before using garlic to cleanse the colon.

Licorice

Licorice can be used during to support the organs and detoxify the body during the colon cleansing process. Using certain licorice supplements may raise your blood pressure. Talk to you doctor before using licorice in the colon cleanse process.

Barberry

Barberry encourages the release of excess waste from the colon. Speak with your doctor before using barberry to cleanse the colon.

Fenugreek

Fenugreek can be used to promote the removal of mucus from the intestines during the colon cleansing process. Talk to a health care professional before using fenugreek.

References

  • "Prescription fo Nutritional Healing"; James F. Balch and Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 1997
  • "The Healing Herbs"; Michael Castleman; 1991
  • "Herbal Medicine"; Dian Dincin Buchman, Ph.D.; 1996
  • "Detox"; Sara Rose; 2004
  • "The Natural Health Bible"; Lisha Simester; 2006

Article reviewed by GlennK Last updated on: Jun 19, 2010

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