Home Remedies for Cleansing the Colon

By: Michele Kadison

A properly functioning colon is essential for an optimally healthy body. The body is constantly exposed to toxins that accumulate in this and other organs, preventing proper absorption of nutrients and contributing to symptoms of physical distress. Healthcare practitioners maintain that a colon "cleanse" will keep the body free of bacteria and other wastes, helping reduce the possibility of excess gas, bloating, constipation, and irritable bowel syndrome. The British Royal Society of Medicine has been attributed with saying that 90 percent of all chronic diseases are due to infection of the gastrointestinal tract, with more than 65 different health problems related to a toxic colon. Many doctors prescribe colon cleansing as a preparation for medical procedures such as colonoscopy. If you want to try colon cleansing, there are many ingredients that can be used as home remedies for inducing a safe colon cleansing process. Just remember to drink plenty of purified water to avoid dehydration, which can be one of the unwanted side effects.

Psyllium Seeds
Psyllium seeds are a good source of soluble fiber. Additionally, the husks contain a mucilage that reportedly helps pull toxins out of the colon. When the husks meet with water, they expand and become sticky, allowing fecal matter to adhere to the mixture, which is then easily eliminated once the material softens. Because expanded psyllium seeds can pull more than 10 times their weight, they supply a powerful toxin sweep for the body. In 1998, the FDA concurred that psyllium seeds may reduce the risk of coronary heart diseases, allowing this to be listed on brand labels as long as an advisory to include drinking adequate amounts of listed is included.

Bentonite Clay
Bentonite clay is a unique type of clay that is comprised of aged volcanic ash. Originally found in Fort Benton, Wyoming, it also contains a medicinal mineral called 'Montmorillonite,' which forms microscopic crystals that swell when placed in contact with water, creating a viscous solution that sticks to the mucus lining the walls of the bowels. Toxins adhere to this material whereby they are then washed out of the system with water. The clay can be taken in liquid, gel, capsule, or powder form, passing through the system without being digested. It is advised that bentonite is taken on an empty stomach one hour before or after eating. As with any home remedy, consult with your healthcare provider before using bentonite clay, especially if you are taking medication. Elderly people as well as pregnant women and nursing mothers are advised by medical experts not to consume bentonite clay.

Flaxseeds
Flaxseeds provide many health benefits, including helping to cleanse the colon while encouraging bowel movements. The seeds contain mucilage that helps to cleanse toxins from the system without irritating the organs. Because flaxseeds expand when they are mixed with water, they are able to adhere to metabolic waste and dried mucus containing bacteria and other contaminated elements, and carry them out of the system. Flaxseeds are very high in fiber and also contain essential fatty acids, and protein. The fiber is responsible for helping to cleanse the colon, while the fatty acids and protein provide food for friendly bacteria in the intestines. The way to get the most out of flaxseeds is to grind them in a seed grinder immediately before consuming them, as pre-ground flaxseeds lose their properties in a very short time. If you are using flaxseed oil, keep it refrigerated to avoid rancidity.

Magnesium Oxide
Magnesium oxide is a naturally occurring mineral, and is sometimes used as a supplement to maintain adequate levels of magnesium in the body. When mixed with water, magnesium oxide helps to oxygenate and hydrate the system. By mixing magnesium oxide with water, the oxygen content is separated from the magnesium oxide. Reacting with the hydrogen in the water, it then assists in softening fecal matter as it passes through the intestinal tract. Additionally, because toxic organisms cannot abide by an oxygenated environment, elements such as bacteria and fungi are eliminated through exposure to the substance. As the waste products become liquefied, the elements in magnesium oxide gently sweep away toxins as the bowels do their work. Magnesium oxide is a safe way to cleanse the colon and is best taken one hour before or after meals. Before taking magnesium oxide, tell your doctor if you have any other medical conditions, allergies, or if you take other medicines or other herbal/health supplements. Magnesium oxide may not be recommended in some situations, such as if you have kidney disease or are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.