Herbal cleansers are purported to cleanse the skin, the colon, intestines and other organs of the body. Herbal antiseptics, antivirals, antifungals and antibiotics are alleged to cleanse the whole body, with the goal of ridding it of toxins.
As with any herbal, mineral or vitamin supplement, you should consult your family medical professional before beginning any herbal cleansing process. Some herbs can negatively interact with prescription medications or make some medical conditions worse.
Cascara
Cascara, or Cascara sagrada, is a bark laxative with strong stimulant agents which are purported to force bowel evacuation. It is included in many colon cleansing formulas. Using cascara for long periods of time can lead to sodium and potassium depletion due to water and electrolytes being forced into the intestines to be voided with the waste, according to the Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Don't use this if you are pregnant, breast-feeding, have intestinal blockage or inflammatory bowel disease, or if you are on diuretics or digoxin. The U.S. Food and Drig Administration has ruled that cascara isn't safe as a stimulant laxative.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has antimicrobial properties and is used as an antiseptic cleanser to rid the body of fungal infections. In clinical trials it has been tested on acne, athlete’s foot, dandruff, nail fungal infections, eye infections, genital herpes and for skin reactions, according to Medline Plus. Potential side effects of tea tree oil are rash, blistering, diarrhea, drowsiness, nausea, reduced immune system function and confusion.
Uva Ursi
Uva Ursi, also known as bearberry, is a urinary-tract infection remedy used by Native Americans for cleansing the urinary system. In clinical trials, it's had mixed results on cystitis and urinary tract infections, but does hold some promise. Its main chemical, hydroquinone, can be a liver toxin and shouldn't be taken for long periods of time, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. If you have Crohn’s disease, high blood pressure, ulcers, kidney disease, digestive ailments or liver disease you shouldn't use it. Pregnant and breast-feeding women should also avoid it.
Garlic
Garlic is used medicinally to help reduce high blood pressure, heart disease and cholesterol. It has clinical testing that shows promise for its effectiveness against cholesterol. In the short-term, garlic does lower the levels slightly, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Potential side effects include bad breath, heartburn, upset stomach and allergy. Don't use if you are taking blood thinners or saquinavir, or if you have blood-clotting issues.
Member Comments