Colon Cleansing 101

While conducting our study on colon cleansing, we came across a great deal of information on the subject that needed to be evaluated.  While some of this information turned out to be false, we did come across some information that we felt had value for those seeking to cleanse their system.

So, we've included on this page information that helps shed some light on natural colon cleansing and what it entails.  Information such as how the colon works, how colon cleansing pills attempt to work, and which ingredients are used primarily in natural colon cleansing products. 

The colon is a very long hollow tube (its approximately 5 feet in length), that forms part of the large intestine.  Its purpose is to filter and remove water from digested food.  The colon than allows the remaining material (stool) to pass through it on into the rectum, and finally the anus, where it is expelled from the body. 

Over time the lining in the colon can build up fecal matter, chemicals, toxins and bacteria.  As a result of these blockages, bowel movements may be more strained and difficult, which can lead to constipation, bloating, gas, and indigestion.   In addition, the gases the excess bacteria in the colon release contain sulfur that cause the gas released from the rectum and anus to be foul smelling. 

If the colon continues to struggle with these obstructions it can hinder its ability to function properly.  It is very important that the colon absorb nutrients effectively.  Insufficient nutrient levels can lead to a number of problems including fatigue, weight gain, and illness.

Most herbal colon cleanse products work by attempting to break up the matter "sticking" to colon.  Since build up is in large part due to digested toxins and fecal matter, all which need to be expelled from the body, it makes sense to use herbal ingredients that have mild laxative properties. 

A good herbal formula will also include herbs that help to soothe and heal the colon.  In addition, many herbal colon cleanse treatments contain nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that are believed to support the over all health of the colon.

While studying colon cleanse products, we noticed that many of the more successful brands tend to share a list of common ingredients.  That is, the key ingredients in many of these formulas were the same.  Here is a list of those herbal ingredients that are used the most for colon cleansing:

• Cascara Sagrada

• Slippery Elm

• Rhubarb

• Aloe

Although this list does not include every ingredient used for colon cleansing in every product currently on the market, it does give you an idea of which herbs are the main drivers in colon cleanse.

After reviewing some of the basics on colon cleansing, you're probably wondering which products work best to help get rid of toxins.  To address that, we've set-up a page listing what we found to be the top herbal colon cleansers on the market today.