Colon Cleansers Compared

Understanding why and when colon cleansing is necessary can help you to avoid the potentially dangerous side effects of repeated treatments. You should know the different types of cleansers, how they work and the potential outcome of using a specific type. You should consult your primary care provider before using any type of colon cleanser.

Purpose

There are a variety of reasons to use a colon cleanser. You may be required to clear out the lower digestive tract to prepare for a medical procedure, like a colonoscopy, or perhaps you are suffering from severe constipation. Perhaps you agree with some natural health advocates who encourage the practice of regular colon cleansing to rid the body of harmful toxins and encourage better health. According to Dr. Michael Picco, M.D. on the Mayo Clinic website, the practice of colon cleansing for the sole purpose of detoxification is not recommended by most medical professionals because this practice has not been well researched.

Stimulant Laxatives

Colon cleansers prescribed by a medical professional are typically classified as stimulant laxatives. According to the Medline Plus website, some of the more common laxative brands include Bisacodyl, Dulcolox, Ex-Lax Gentle Nature and Senekot. These medications can be taken in liquid, powder, granule or suppository form. Always consult your primary care provider before taking any type of stimulant laxative, as they can interfere with other medications and supplements or exacerbate existing medical conditions.

Herbal Cleansers

There are several herbs that have been classified natural laxatives. Buckthorn, cascara sagrada, rhubarb and senna all contain anthraquinones, compounds that have a strong, cathartic action on the digestive system. According to Micheal Castleman, author of "The New Healing Herbs," these plants can have a powerful, purgative effect and should only be taken under the direction of a medical professional. Senna is a common ingredient used in stimulant laxatives.

Colon Therapy

Colon therapy, also known as colonic irrigation or colon hydrotherapy, is the practice of irrigating the large intestines with a liquid. Common liquids used in colon therapy are water, coffee, herbal concoctions or enzymes, according to the American Cancer Society, or ACS, website. While practitioners of colon therapy consider it a beneficial and necessary detoxification procedure, many health professionals consider it to be ineffective and dangerous, sometimes causing infection or death, states the ACS website.

Prevention

You can combat mild constipation and improve your overall health by making a few changes to your daily diet. According to Dr. Picco, you should drink lots of water and other fluids, eat foods that are high in fiber and engage in regular exercise.