A natural colon cleanse is an intestinal cleansing to remove years of impacted toxins, impurities and fecal matter that are thought to have accumulated in the colon and lower intestines. In order to cleanse any other part of the body, such as the blood, liver or lymphatic system, the colon must first be relieved of toxins. If a colon cleanse is not completed before attempting other cleanses, the toxins will just be recycled back into the blood.
When we think of toxins, we think of chemicals, medications and pesticides that the body has metabolized. However, caffeine, fried and refined foods, meats, sodas and even undigested foods from overeating can become toxic. Most herbs used in colon cleanse supplements have natural disinfectant properties that eliminate the toxins as well as any worms or parasites which the body might be harboring.
There are a variety of natural cleanses recommended by holistic practitioners. They range from simple herbs to extensive fasting or colon irrigations. Some people are sensitive to these procedures, so it is important to investigate each type of natural colon cleanse to find one that is suitable. Age, body condition and health are important to consider when choosing an appropriate colon cleanse.
Symptoms that suggest you might need an intestinal cleansing are bloating, flatulence, constipation, headaches, sluggishness, joint pain, skin problems, fatigue and sleep disorders. Most natural colon cleanse supplements are herbs that are natural disinfectants. They are valuable aids for chronic constipation, diverticulitis and irritable bowel syndrome. Reports indicate that cholesterol can be lowered as much as 10% to 15% by maintaining a clean, clear colon.
Triphala is an excellent natural colon cleanse. This ancient formula is from the Ayurvedic tradition of medicine. It consists of a combination of dried fruits known in India as amla, bihara and harada. It is available in powder form for brewing a tea or in capsule form. Supporting a healthy digestion, triphala accomplishes cleansing, regulating, strengthening and toning all in one simple process. Because it is natural, it does not strip or deplete vital nutrients as pharmaceutical colon cleansers do.
Besides being a colon cleanser, triphala cleanses and detoxifies the liver, works as an herbal laxative and a probiotic. This allows for the purification of the blood, reduction of serum cholesterol and high blood pressure as well. It is excellent for people who tend to be acidic as it balances the system’s pH.
Bentonite clay can also be used for a natural colon cleanse. Indigenous tribes have used this clay for centuries. It is one of the most effective natural intestinal detoxifying cleansers known to science. The clay absorbs water and the toxins are drawn and bound to it, then eliminated through the bowel. Many studies have reported that this clay can actually absorb herbicides, pesticides and pathogenic viruses.
Psyllium husk is another excellent supplement used as a natural colon cleanse. It is an excellent form of soluble fiber and its gelatinous properties bind toxins and help eliminate them. The bulking action promotes easy, natural bowel movements. Other soluble fibers include barley, flax seed, dried beans and peas, oats and oat bran, fruits and vegetables. Insoluble fibers, such as wheat bran and cereals not containing psyllium or oats are not as effective but are milder on the system.
Colonic irrigation, or colon hydrotherapy are considered a natural colon cleanse when used with natural fluids, such as coffee. These are excellent for people who have problems with constipation and irregular bowel movements. A series is recommended and regulated, according to the comfort of the client. Fasting, heat, water and herbal cleanses are used in conjunction to speed the results and recovery.
Most natural colon cleanse procedures include fasting on raw fruit and vegetable juices, bentonite clay supplements, psyllium or flax seed supplements and probiotics. It is very important to nourish the body after your colon cleanse is completed. Bieler’s Broth has often been recommended to restore the body’s pH balance and soothe the system. Ingredients include zucchini, green beans, celery and parsley, cooked in pure water and puréed.