Today’s fast way of life had spawned a new breed of current illnesses. Chronic fatigue, recurring constipation, sudden allergies, and some strange infections are just some of today’s prevalent diseases that, while not fatal, hinder one’s business.

Most people think there is a magic bullet to end most of them: colon cleansing.

Colon cleansing is actually a method of cleaning the body’s waste disposal system. Taking their cue from the ancient Egyptians and Greeks, people are again of the belief that today’s illnesses spring from faulty body waste disposal and that this discrepancy needs outside help.

Herbs

One of the three main methods of colon cleansing is the use of herbs. These herbs can be found in manufactured colon cleansing systems or can be obtained by anyone interested enough to self-medicate.

It is believed that aside from cleansing the colon, herbs also helps remove from our body’s system those harmful chemicals, pesticides, and metals we ingest everyday. Most people now believe that these environmental toxins also play a big role in the rise of today’s illnesses.

Some particular herbs may not react together well enough. This is where knowledge of these herbal aids becomes crucial. It is important, at the very least, to know the general use of these named herbs for reference purposes. Of course, as the final arbiter, a medical practitioner is the best resource person.

Here is the list and a short description of how they work.

* Cascara sagrada also known as bearberry – this herb has a long history as a laxative fro people suffering from constipation. Note of caution: This cannot be used on a regular basis since it can be habit-forming. Read the manufacturer’s instructions.

* Wormwood – cleanses the colon of worms and also works as a mild sedative. However, this should not be used by pregnant or nursing women.

* Black walnut husk – this cleanses the intestines of parasites, and is also effective in fighting fungal infections. On the side, it helps in digestion.

* Cloves – this herb helps clears out parasites and aids in digestion.

* Rosemary – this versatile herb aids in preventing liver toxicity. It has anti-tumor properties and stimulates digestion and blood circulation.

* Cayenne Pepper- a wonderful herb that does many things including; helps the heart, kidneys, lungs, and stomach. It helps in digestion and is good for sinus problems,
colds and sore throats. Cayenne is rich in folic acid, vitamins B1, B2, B3 and B6, vitamin A and C.

* Yellow dock or curly dock – it cleanses the blood, the colon and good in combating liver disease.

* Parsley – this fragrant herb does many good things: stops tumors from multiplying, helps the kidneys, bladder, stomach, liver and lungs work better. It also helps
lower blood pressure.

* Yerba mate – it cleanses the blood, helps with allergies, constipation and inflammation.

* Cats Claw – this one is good for intestinal disorders. It also enhances white blood cell action. (Note: pregnant women should not use this.)

* Cranberry – this is great for combating urinary tract infection. Bacteria cannot survive in cranberry’s acidity.

* Corn Silk – helps fight troubles in the intestines, bladder and kidneys. Works well in combination with other kidney-cleansing herbs.

* Milk Thistle – this herb works best for liver problems and is a great antioxidant. It is also good in fighting digestive and kidney disorders.

Aside from these herbs, there are foods that help the body just as well. Mostly, they alkalize and detoxify the body. (Some vegetables and fruits – while good – are acid-forming: asparagus, Brussels sprouts, chickpeas, cranberries, canned fruits.) These comprise most of the vegetables, fruits, soy products, maple syrup and molasses.

For today’s new health troubles, it is good to know some herbs and food that help in the fight. Some of them are strictly classified as colon cleansers and rightly so. Whatever is the name, it is good to know them by heart, especially on how they are used.