Colon cleanses come in different forms. These include both holistic and non-holistic methods to cleanse your digestive system. Certain herbs are said to cleanse the system as well as natural supplements specifically marketed as colon cleansers. A majority of these natural colon cleanser supplements contain psyllium and cascara sagrads. There are options, however, for those individuals who would like to use products without these ingredients.
History
The Inner Spa website notes that the history of colon cleansers date back to Egyptian times. Around 1500 BC, Ebers Papyrus documented the benefits of colon cleansing. According to the World Health Organization, Dr. Louis Kuhne, Dr. Arnold Rickli and Dr. Henry Lindlahr were the first physicians to begin taking a look at detoxification and cleanses. This occurred during the 1800s. Though many of these earlier cleanses relied upon psyllium and cascara sagrads, it was not until about 100 years later that natural colon cleansing supplements without these ingredients became popular.
Psyllium and Cascara Sagrads
Psyllium, derived from the husks of psyllium seeds, is considered to be a fiber-based laxative. Cascara sagrads is a stimulant laxative, though it is not known exactly how this particular laxative works. It is extracted from the bark of trees.
Examples
Triphala is one example of a natural colon cleanse supplement that does not contain psyllium or cascara sagrads. This natural colon cleanser supplement is an Indian herb. Triphala consists of three types of fruits. This includes haritaki, amalaki and bibhitaki. Flaxseed is another natural colon cleanse supplement. It creates a laxative-like effect in order to cleanse the body. Other natural colon supplements include senna, aloe vera and Chinese rhubarb.
Benefits
According to the website Healthy Living Answers, natural colon cleanse supplements tend to have less severe side effects than medicinal colon cleanses. Herbs that are used for colon cleansing also have been known to kill harmful parasites. In addition, flaxseed has been known to have other health benefits such as aiding in lower cholesterol.
Warnings
Though these are natural methods of colon cleansing, these supplements should not be used in excess. You should not take these supplements if you are pregnant or may become pregnant. In addition, if are breast-feeding, do not take cascara sagrads because it does pass through breast milk. In general, you should always consult your physician before taking any natural colon cleaner supplements
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