Over-the-counter herbal colon cleansing supplements typically have strong laxatives or fiber ingredients. Depending on the formula, one or more laxatives may be included. These herbal remedies are used in a high concentrations for total bowel evacuation, or colon cleansing. Before starting any herbal remedy or colon cleansing treatment, talk with your doctor.
Aloe
Aloe is typically thought to be a sunburn topical remedy, but taken internally it is a laxative. While the University of Maryland Medical Center states that it isn’t recommended as a laxative, it is included in many over-the-counter colon cleansing formulas. The laxative effect comes from a yellow bitter liquid, the aloe latex, in the leaf. Potential side effects of taking aloe internally are cramping and diarrhea. Breastfeeding and pregnant women should not use oral aloe because of uterine cramping and possible miscarriage.
Senna
Senna is another stimulant laxative that works by increasing bowel movement. It should only be taken with plenty of water and not for longer than a week. Too much use of senna can make you dependent upon it, according to the National Institutes of Health. Potential side effects can be yellow-brown urine, nausea, vomiting, cramping and diarrhea.
Cascara Sagrada
Cascara sagrada is a strong laxative made from bark which can lead to lowering of sodium and potassium levels. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has said it is not safe to use as a laxative, but it is in many products sold as laxatives and colon cleansers. According to the Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, it can cause liver problems and electrolyte imbalances. It should not be taken by pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Psyllium
Psyllium is nothing more than seed husks, and it has a very high fiber content. This high fiber content makes it a frequent addition to colon cleaning products and over-the-counter laxatives. It has been in clinical trials and had good results as a laxative, according to Medline Plus. It increases the number of bowel movements and decreases the transit time through the intestines. It carries some allergy risks, and those with pre-existing bowel troubles should not use psyllium.
Flaxseed
Flaxseed has been a common menopause remedy and is also a laxative. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine states that flaxseed is high in plant estrogens called lignans and soluble fiber. It is generally well tolerated, with few side effects. You should always take plenty of water when using laxatives. Too much fiber can make some medications absorb differently in the body.
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