Internal cleansing methods such as colon detox have become popular once again. These practices are not new, but have been rediscovered recently. Detox expert and author Dr. Elson Haas calls fasting and cleansing the "missing link" in modern medicine. By cleansing the colon, one can rid the body of built-up waste and toxins, leaving one feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
The Colon Cleansing Process
Step 1
Prepare for a period of fasting and cleansing by having a light dinner. Brown rice and steamed vegetables are ideal. Take one to two capsules of cascara sagrada before going to bed. Cascara is an herbal laxative that is considered safe with only mild side effects. According to Clayton College of Natural Health's herb guide, cascara stimulates elimination of the intestines. It is also a natural "chelating agent," which means it binds to toxins in the digestive tract. Cascara used with other herbs such as buckthorn or black walnut have been known to expel worms and other parasites in the system.
Step 2
Begin a fast, consuming only lemon water, purified water, herbal tea and fresh fruit and vegetable juices. Follow this fast for at least three days or as much as 10 days. Fasting guru and author Paul Bragg recommends an annual fast of 7 to 10 days for optimal health. After two to four days of fasting, feelings of hunger will begin to subside. As toxins are being released, you may experience headaches, restlessness or other unpleasant side effects. Keep in mind these are only temporary, although they may continue throughout the duration of the fast. These are what naturopaths refer to as a "healing crisis."
Step 3
Cleanse the colon daily by taking one serving of psyllium husk powder, or other fiber drink mixed one to three times per day with water or juice. As noted in the herb guide, psyllium is a "colon and intestine cleanser." It provides bulk and removes toxins from colon. Make sure you take it with plenty of water to avoid creating blockages in the intestines. In addition to the psyllium, continue taking one to two capsules of the cascara sagrada or herbal laxative blend each night to stimulate the colon.
Step 4
Begin and end the cleansing period with a colonic irrigation or enema of purified water. This can be done professionally or at home with an enema bottle or bucket. Do not use over-the-counter enemas, which contain saline solutions, as they can dehydrate the body. A simple enema or colonic using purified water is all that is needed to flush out the colon. If you have never performed an enema before, it may be best to consult a colon hydrotherapist first.
Step 5
Ease back into a "normal" diet. Do not eat meat or dairy products the first day following a total fast. Fresh fruits, vegetables, brown rice and other whole grains are easiest to digest. Take note of the positive changes in the body following a cleanse. This should be motivation to continue to follow a healthy diet all year long. A healthy diet is composed of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, beans/legumes, lean meats and dairy products, and healthy oils and fats. Alcohol, coffee, pre-packaged and processed foods should be avoided as much as possible.
Tips and Warnings
- These cleansing methods are temporary measures. Although the herbs are generally mild, long-term use of any type of laxative may create dependency. Regular cleansing can be done safely for 7 to 10 days, one to four times per year.
- If you are underweight or have been diagnosed with an eating disorder, do not follow a total fast. The above cleansing methods can be followed with a modified diet of raw fruits and vegetables and brown rice. Avoid meat, dairy and sugary products during a cleanse. Additionally, if you are taking prescription medications, consult your physician before beginning this or any cleansing program. Some herbs may interfere with certain prescriptions.
Things You'll Need
- 1 enema bottle or bucket
- 1 bottle cascara sagrada or blend with cascara, buckthorn and/or black walnut
- Psyllium husk powder or other fiber drink mix
- 1 bag fresh lemons
- 3 - 5 bottles of organic juice of choice, or fresh fruits such as oranges and pineapples for juicing
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