Although herbs have been used for medicinal purposes for years in countries like China and India, their medical significance was not recognized in most of the West. It is only recently that people have started showing interest in these and a lot of research work is being carried out to understand the full potential of these herbs.

If we look at China we will see that the Chinese people not only use herbs as medicines but they also use them extensively in their food. Some claim that such use of herb in diet is the reason behind prolonged lives of the Chinese people. And not only do they live long, they are extremely healthy even at a very old age. Studies have also revealed that Chinese people have a very low rate of heart diseases.

There has been a general rise in the interest levels among many Americans about colon health. Even if it is still considered not a very pleasant topic to talk about but at least now they have the internet where they can learn and understand what the threats are. And what they are seeing is that herbs can play a significant role in ensuring that you have a healthy colon.

The colon cleanse herbs and the herbal laxatives are generally harmless and are alternatives to commercial laxatives. Colon cleanse herbs contain substances which fall under the category of anthraquinones. These would include cascara sagrada, rhubarb, and senna. That the herbs have laxative effects can be attributed to the presence of the anthraquinone substances.

In fact the herbs are quite strong and potent in their action with most herbs starting to show results within half a day of consumption. It would be wise to keep the next two days of your week free as you wouldn't be able to go outside your home due to the several visits to the toilet that might be necessary. Since the herbs are so powerful you need to take them only in moderate amounts.

It must be understood that some of these herbs have severe side effects and if are used over a long period of time can cause organ damage including your liver, kidneys and the colon.

A sustained use of them can also develop a dependency where you will stop having regular bowel movement without the use of these herbs.

These herbs should also not be taken by pregnant women, nursing others and children.