1. Stay Hydrated
The simplest way of keeping your colon clean is making sure that you get enough fluids. This will prevent fecal matter from becoming hard and dry. That doesn’t mean you should just chug water by the liters. Most healthy adults need about 6–8 glasses of fluids a day, so concentrate on getting this in. You also don’t need to restrict yourself to water. Aside from water, drink a variety of fluids like milk, fruit juices, and even stews and soups.
2. Have Castor Oil
While the idea of consuming castor oil can be unappealing to many, this is an age-old remedy for constipation. Studies on older adults show that use of castor oil packs can improve the symptoms of constipation and relieve straining during defecation. The ricinoleic acid in the oil helps bowel movements. However, avoid this remedy if you’re pregnant, since consuming this oil is believed to induce labor. Too much castor oil could also lead to diarrhea.
3. Try Prune Juice
Prunes have also been traditionally used for their laxative effect. In fact, one study found that drinking 125 ml of prune juice twice a day was effective at combating mild constipation. This might be due to its high levels of sorbitol, a sugar alcohol that is slowly digested, producing a laxative effect. The study also found that while prune juice worked as a laxative, it also increased flatulence. So don’t go overboard with this remedy.
4. Have Fennel Tea
Fennel tea can help you detox as it has a laxative effect and can stimulate gastrointestinal mobility. Herbalists also believe that fennel can help flush out toxins from the kidneys and liver.
5. Have Psyllium And Other Fiber-Rich Foods
Psyllium is a soluble fiber that comes from seeds of the herb Plantago ovata. When it comes in contact with water, it expands and increases the bulk of stool. This makes it easier to pass stool and relieves constipation. But remember, psyllium needs to be taken with sufficient water. Otherwise, it can swell up, causing an obstruction in your throat or bowels.
6. Go On A Liquid Fast
Avoiding solid foods for a couple of days can help clean out your digestive system. But make sure you steer clear of sodas and alcohol too. Stick to fruit and vegetable juices that supply you with nutrients. According to alternative sciences like Ayurveda or Unani, this will not only cleanse your colon but flush toxins out of your whole system.
7. Have Probiotics
Probiotics are microorganisms that are good for your overall health and your gut health in particular. They serve two purposes when it comes to colon cleansing. First, these good bacteria can help with digestion and fight disease-causing pathogens, thus expelling toxins from your body and giving it an automatic detox. Second, most colon cleansing remedies can themselves wipe out these good bacteria as well – as one study on the effect of pre-operative bowel cleansing on gut bacteria showed.
8. Drink Senna Tea
Senna is another herbal laxative that can be used for colon cleansing. Steep 1–2 gm of senna leaves for around 10 minutes in hot water to prepare a tea which can be had twice a day. Again, remember, this is not meant to be used long term. You should also check with your doctor before using senna if you have a history of inflammatory bowel diseases or bowel obstruction.
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