Skipping breakfast, eating fast food or on the run can result in constipation. Most health professionals recommend healthy people have at least one bowel movement daily. To re-establish healthy bowel patterns, consider eating a high-fiber diet that includes fruits, vegetables, nuts and whole grains. Include regular exercise and drinking adequate water. Consuming herbs designed to clear the colon might also help. Check with your doctor to determine what detox plan is best for you.
Buckthorn Root Tea
Buckthorn root (Rhamus frangula) is found as a dried herb or in combination with other herbs in detox teas designed to cleanse the colon. Mentioned by Galen, a second century Greek physician, drinking buckthorn tea is generally safe to drink every day and it does not have a harsh effect on the large intestine, unlike some colon-cleansing herbs.
For instance, you can drink buckthorn tea as part of a directed colon cleanse or as an after-dinner tea, according to Carrie L'Esperance, author of The New Seasonal Detox Diet.
Senna Leaf
Senna leaf or senna pods have been used for centuries to clear the colon and there are references to it in Shakespearean literature. Once made into a strong, dark tea, it is bitter and will have a very thorough cleansing effect on the colon.
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), senna, as found in herbal laxatives, do not appear to have any harmful effects. However, if you have never used it, check with your doctor or a nutritionist to determine if it is appropriate for you. Senna is available as a dried herbal powder, in capsules or as tablets in health food stores or online.
Cascara Sagrada
Another powerful colon cleanser is cascara sagrada. It is not appropriate for pregnant women. The action of cleansing is effective and as with many herbs, if you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant, check with your doctor before consuming herbs in any form. Cascara sagrada can have side effects of abdominal cramping in some people. It does not have to be consumed alone: combined with slippery elm, for example, can reduce or eliminate cramping. The NIH states that it is generally safe for most healthy adults to use, but it is not meant to be consumed daily.
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