The Research Behind

The Colonix Program

The fact that DrNatura's Colonix Program works is no accident. Its ingredients were selected and carefully combined based on extensive scientific research. In addition the herbs in Colonix have been used for hundreds of years to safely and effectively cleanse the body on a regular basis. According to the World Health Organization 4 billion people, amounting to 80% of the world’s population, use herbal medicines for some aspect of primary healthcare. Below we have compiled some of the research highlights to provide information on each and every ingredient found in the Colonix Program.

The Colonix Program consists of the following three products:
1. Colonix Intestinal Cleanser,
2. Paranil Anti-parasite Support,
3. KleriTea Herbal Tea.

Colonix Intestinal Cleanser

Psyllium Husks (Plantago ovata)

Psyllium husks, consisting of the ripe seeds or epidermis of Plantago ovata, grow in India, Afghanistan, Iran, Israel, northern Africa, Spain, and the Canary Islands. It is cultivated in India and neighboring countries as well as in Brazil and Arizona. Psyllium seed husks are mainly used to clear up constipation and irritable bowel syndrome, though recent research suggests it may also have cholesterol-lowering properties.

What it is used for: An herbal mucilage, psyllium husks are used to coat and soothe the digestive tract. Psyllium is a proven bulking agent that swells into a gummy, gelatinous mass when it absorbs fluid in the intestines, thus lubricating the intestinal walls and encouraging peristalsis and defecation. Because psyllium contributes to the softening and forming of stool, it is useful in lessening the itching, bleeding, pain and other symptoms of hemorrhoids, constipation, and other bowel disorders. Psyllium is also used medicinally for diarrhea, acid indigestion, gastric and duodenal ulcers, and urethritis.

Research Highlights: Experts consider psyllium one of the safest laxatives known, in part because it works like many high-fiber foods. Human and animals studies have shown that psyllium is an active laxative with cholesterol lowering, anti-hypertensive and expectorant qualities. Preliminary studies also suggest its role in diabetes management: When it was taken before breakfast and dinner, the typical rise in glucose and insulin concentrations seen in people with non-insulin-dependent diabetes (type 2) was notably reduced in one study involving eighteen subjects. And while no well-designed studies have been conducted to verify it, many herbalists note that psyllium may help reduce the risk of colon cancer indirectly by bulking up the stool and thus allowing toxic chemicals to have less direct contact with the intestinal tissue. Among others, the following conducted studies11 have been revealed significant findings:

Note: Sufficient water must be taken with psyllium husks to prevent increased constipation and promote defecation. Additionally, psyllium should be taken 1 hour to 2 hours after taking other medications.

References:
1.PDR For Herbal Medicines, 3rd edition, Thompson PDR, ©2004, pg. 657.
2. Ibid.
3. Armstrong, David. Herbs That Work, Ulysses Press, ©2001, pg. 120.
4. Tillotson, Alan Keith. The One Earth Herbal Sourcebook, Twin Streams Health/Kensignton Publishing Corp, ©2001, pg. 79.
5. Peirce, Andrea. The American Pharmaceutical Association Practice Guide to Natural Medicines, William Morrow and Company, Inc., ©1999, pg. 521.
6. Ibid.
7. Bown, Deni. The Herb Society of America New Encyclopedia of Herbs & Their Uses, DK Publishing, Inc., ©2001, pg. 323.
8.PDR For Herbal Medicines, 3rd edition, Thompson PDR, ©2004, pg. 657.
9. Peirce, Andrea. The American Pharmaceutical Association Practice Guide to Natural Medicines, William Morrow and Company, Inc., ©1999, pg. 522.
10. Ibid.
11.PDR For Herbal Medicines, 3rd edition, Thompson PDR, ©2004, pp. 658-659.

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Flax Seed (Linum usitatissimum)

Flax is cultivated worldwide for its many uses. The dry, ripe seeds of the flax plant are used medicinally. There are over 200 species of annual and perennial plants in the flax genus.

What it is used for: Flax seed is used to treat bowel conditions such as chronic constipation, irritable colon, diverticulitis, and colons damaged by the overuse and abuse of commercial laxatives. Because its volume increases after ingestion, flax seed helps initiate intestinal peristalsis. Additionally, it helps regulate the digestive tract by absorbing up to eight times its own weight in water and thus helping material to move more quickly through the intestines; some suggest that in the process of moving through the intestines, it may also bind to toxic substances and carry them out of the body. Though less well known, flax seed is also considered to have anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and cardioprotective characteristics and effects.

Research Highlights: Flax has been shown in many studies to have beneficial effects in the human digestive system, but has also proven to have cholesterol-lowering and cardioprotective properties. In one study, flax seed reduced serum LDL cholesterol levels significantly. Another study highlighted its ability to lower serum lipids and inhibit coagulation. Additionally, research has confirmed the effectiveness of flax seed at treating inflammatory disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis; one study found a reduction of arthritis-related cytokines by as much as 31%.

Note: Sufficient water must be taken with flax seed to prevent increased constipation and to promote defecation.

References:
1. The Complete Guide to Natural Healing, International Masters Publishers, AB. ©2000, 1:103.
2. Armstrong, David. Herbs That Work, Ulysses Press, ©2001, pg. 51.
3. PDR For Herbal Medicines, 3rd edition, Thompson PDR, ©2004, pg. 329.
4. Ibid.
5. Ibid.
6. Ibid.
7. Ibid.
8. Ibid.

Fennel Seed (Foeniculum vulgare)

A relative of parsley and carrots, fennel originated in the Mediterranean region, where it can still be found growing wild. Today it is cultivated as a seed-bearing plant in temperate climates in both Europe and Asia. It is most often used medicinally for gastrointestinal complaints, flatulence, and in cases of poor appetite.

What it is used for: Fennel seeds help to rid the intestinal tract of mucus and aid in the relief of flatulence. In higher concentrations, it also exhibits an antispasmodic effect, and has proven useful for soothing cramps and spasms in the gastrointestinal tract. Seeds can be chewed for upset stomach, indigestion, and heartburn. Tea made from the seeds can be used to treat children’s colic.

Research Highlights: Fennel seeds contain anethole and fenchone, which have been shown in laboratory tests to break down secretions in the respiratory tract. These two components account for much of the seed’s medicinal value. Anethol is an anti-spasmodic and therefore relieves cramps. Fenchone stimulates the appetite.

References:
1. The Complete Guide to Natural Healing, International Masters Publishers, AB. ©2000, 1:15.
2. Balch, Phyllis and Balch, James. Prescription for Nutritional Healing, 3rd ed., Avery Publishing, ©2000, pg. 69.
3. PDR For Herbal Medicines, 3rd edition, Thompson PDR, ©2004, pg. 317.
4. Foster, Steven and Hobbs, Christopher. Peterson Field Guides: Western Medicinal Plants and Herbs, Houghton Mifflin Company, ©2002, pg. 125.
5. Ibid.
6. Armstrong, David. Herbs That Work, Ulysses Press, ©2001, pg. 47.
7. The Complete Guide to Natural Healing, International Masters Publishers, AB. ©2000, 1:15.

Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Native to southeast Europe and southwest Asia, licorice grows wild throughout many European nations and the Middle East. Only its roots – fresh or dried – are used medicinally. It is most often used to treat mucous membrane inflammation and to soothe coughs.

What it is used for: Licorice has anti-inflammatory, antiulcer, expectorant, antiplatelet, antifungal, and antibacterial properties. Licorice has a long history of successful use in the treatment of gastric ulcers. It may also be effective for a variety of infectious diseases. Modern uses of licorice include using it as a component in cold and flu remedies, for bronchitis, and in the treatment of hormonal issues, such as menopause and PMS.

Research Highlights: The two main constituents of licorice are glycyrrhizin and flavanoids. A preliminary trial found that chewable licorice tablets containing glycyrrhizin were just as effective at healing and maintaining stomach ulcers as a leading acid-blocking drug. Research also indicates that deglycyrrhizinated licorice may stimulate natural defense mechanisms that prevent the occurrence of ulcers by increasing the number of mucous-secreting cells in the digestive tract, thereby improving the quality of mucous, lengthening the intestinal cell life, and enhancing microcirculation in the gastrointestinal lining.

References:
1. The Complete Guide to Natural Healing, International Masters Publishers, AB. ©2000, 1:140.
2. Ibid.
3. PDR For Herbal Medicines, 3rd edition, Thompson PDR, ©2004, pg. 511.
4. Ibid.
5. Ibid.
6. http://www.raleys.com/cfapps/healthnotesra/healthnotes.cfm?org=raleys&ContentID=2122006#Constituents
7. Balch, Phyllis and Balch, James. Prescription for Nutritional Healing, 3rd ed., Avery Publishing, ©2000, pg. 102.

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Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis/capensis/vera)

From its origin in eastern and southern Africa, Aloe has migrated to America. Today it is primarily grown in subtropical areas of the United States and the West Indies. The leaves of the aloe plant contain its medicinal substances, which are used as a strong laxative and wound healer.

What it is used for: Probably best known for its ability to help heal burns, Aloe is also a potent laxative, easily stimulating the colon. In addition, it has astringent, emollient, antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. Applied topically it can heal burns and promote cell regeneration. Ingested, it helps to lower cholesterol, reduces inflammation, soothes stomach irritation and acts as a laxative.

Research Highlights: Clinical trials suggest that aloe vera helps to produce more frequent bowel movements, softer stools, and less laxative dependence. Another study found that burn injuries treated with aloe gel had an improved healing rate.

References:
1. The Complete Guide to Natural Healing, International Masters Publishers, AB. ©2000, 1:6.
2. Ibid.
3. Armstrong, David. Herbs That Work, Ulysses Press, ©2001, pg. 3.
4. Balch, Phyllis and Balch, James. Prescription for Nutritional Healing, 3rd ed., Avery Publishing, ©2000, pg. 89.
5. Ibid.
6. PDR For Herbal Medicines, 3rd edition, Thompson PDR, ©2004, pg. 17.
7. PDR For Herbal Medicines, 3rd edition, Thompson PDR, ©2004, pg. 19.

Grapefruit Pectin

Grapefruit contains pectin, which is a soluble fiber derived from the pulp and peel of the fruit that forms a gel-like substance in the intestinal tract. Medical practitioners agree that grapefruit pectin is hypercholesterolemic. It appears to be equal to or more effective than most popularly prescribed drugs for lowering cholesterol. Researchers have also discovered that grapefruit pectin reduces atheromatous plaque.

Research Highlights: In one study, guinea pigs administered grapefruit pectin reduced their cholesterol by 40% over only a six-week period. In other studies, animals fed a high-cholesterol diet plus grapefruit pectin had 24% narrowing of their arteries, while animals fed only the high-cholesterol diet had 45% narrowing. Human trials conducted with hypercholesterolemic subjects found that those who used grapefruit pectin and no other cholesterol lowering agents and without lifestyle modification significantly lowered total cholesterol and LDL while increasing HDL levels.

References:
1. http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=25
2. http://www.lef.org/protocols/prtcl-049o.shtml
3. Ibid.
4. Ibid.
5. http://www.lef.org/protocols/prtcl-049o.shtml

Papaya Fruit (Carica papaya)

Papaya is a fruit native to eastern Central America and was cultivated long before the arrival of the Europeans. Since the 1800s, papaya has been grown in all tropical regions, with Hawaii and South Africa now the main exporters. An excellent source of antioxidants, papayas also contain not only vitamin E, but also more vitamin A than carrots and more vitamin C than oranges. Papaya fruit is also an excellent source of calcium, potassium, iron, B vitamins, and proteins. Along with these nutrients, what makes papaya useful medicinally is papain, an enzyme that assists in chemically transforming proteins into various amino acids, including arginine which influences the human growth hormone to increase muscle tone and decrease body fat. Papaya fruit is also used to treat heartburn, indigestion, and inflammatory bowel disorders.

Research Highlights: Research has shown that papain can be effective in fighting cancer as it breaks down a protein substance called fibrin, found on all cancer cells, and thus preventing metastasis, including inhibiting the growth of human breast cancer cells. Patients taking papaya enzymes have shown to recover faster from surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. Research has also demonstrated that papaya fruit stimulates the appetite and aids digestion.

References:
1. http://www.innvista.com/health/foods/fruits/papayas.htm 
2. Ibid.
3. Balch, Phyllis and Balch, James. Prescription for Nutritional Healing, 3rd ed., Avery Publishing, ©2000, pg. 105.
4. http://www.innvista.com/health/foods/fruits/papayas.htm 
5. Balch, Phyllis and Balch, James. Prescription for Nutritional Healing, 3rd ed., Avery Publishing, ©2000, pg. 105.

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Slippery Elm Bark (Ulmus rubra)

Native to the eastern and central United States and eastern Canada, slippery elm is most commonly found in the Appalachian Mountains. The inner bark of the slippery elm tree contains the medicinal qualities which make it a useful remedy for indigestion, colds, sore throats, and skin wounds.

What it is used for: Slippery elm is often used as a demulcent and emollient; it is primarily indicated for treatment of irritated and inflamed mucous membranes such as can be found in the throat and digestive tract. Because it contains large amounts of mucilage – which coat the surface of mucous membranes when it comes into contact with water – it is often used for its mucilaginous comforting properties, for example, in the case of hemorrhoids. Slippery elm has also been used to treat diarrhea and ulcers. Other uses include treatment for Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, diverticulosis, diverticulitis, and gastritis.

Research Highlights: The inner bark contains mucilage, a mixture of polyuronides that removes toxins from mucous membranes and helps soothe them. Its other compounds include procyanidins, starch, and tannins. Little research has actually been conducted on slippery elm, but its use by native peoples and in Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine has produced substantial body of anecdotal evidence. Its long history of use based on clinical experience suggest that conditions that seem to respond to slippery elm include: Sore throat, cough, mild respiratory ailments, gastritis, peptic ulcer, and other gastrointestinal conditions, diarrhea, wounds, burns, boils, and other skin conditions (external), and as a skin softener.

References:
1. The Complete Guide to Natural Healing, International Masters Publishers, AB. ©2000, 1:99.
2. Ibid.
3. PDR For Herbal Medicines, 3rd edition, Thompson PDR, ©2004, pg. 737.
4. Ibid.
5. Mowrey, Daniel. The Scientific Validation of Herbal Medicine, Keats Publishing, ©1986, pg. 241.
6. Balch, Phyllis and Balch, James. Prescription for Nutritional Healing, 3rd ed., Avery Publishing, ©2000, pg. 109.
7. The Complete Guide to Natural Healing, International Masters Publishers, AB. ©2000, 1:99.
8. http://www.dukehealth.org/HealthLibrary/DrugsAndHerbs/Herbs/SlipperyElm/#References-Section

Marshmallow Root (Althea officinalis)

Marshmallow may have originated in Europe and central Asia and has probably been used by humans for thousands of years; pollen from a related species was found in 60,000-year-old Neanderthal grave. Today, it grows much throughout Europe and in many regions of North America. The part used medicinally is the root.

What it is used for: Marshmallow alleviates irritation, functions as an anti-inflammatory, immune stimulant, and has been shown to soothe mucous membranes. It aids the body in expelling excess fluid and mucous, soothes and heals skin, mucous membranes and other tissues, and is used in the treatment of bladder infections, digestive upsets, intestinal disorders and kidney problems.

Research Highlights: Research has found that the high mucilage content of marshmallow has demonstrated hypoglycemic activity in non-diabetic mice. Additionally, antimicrobial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus vulgaris, and Staphylococcus aureus has been documented.

References:
1. The Complete Guide to Natural Healing, International Masters Publishers, AB. ©2000, 1:90.
2. PDR For Herbal Medicines, 3rd edition, Thompson PDR, ©2004, pg. 556.
3. Balch, Phyllis and Balch, James. Prescription for Nutritional Healing, 3rd ed., Avery Publishing, ©2000, pg. 103.
4. http://www.traditionalmedicinals.com/index.php?id=108&findall=marshmallow
5. Ibid.

Rhubarb Root (Rheum officinale/palmatum)

Rheum palmatum, the easier of the rhubarb species to locate for medicinal purposes, is a plant native to western China and eastern Tibet; Rheum officinale is currently cultivated only in gardens in temperate regions of the world. There is also Rheum rhababrarum and R. rhapositum, which are garden varieties used mainly in cooking. Only rhubarb’s taproot is used medicinally and it must be at least three years old, though it is suggested that roots six to ten years old are actually most effective.

What it is used for: Rhubarb is well known as a gentle laxative, especially suitable for children, because it is so mild. In addition, ingestion of rhubarb promotes secretions in the bowel and stomach and stimulates propulsive contractions while simultaneously increasing the water and electrolyte content of the stool. It is known to fight infection and help eliminate worms from the intestines, enhance gallbladder function and promote the healing of duodenal ulcers, and is helpful in the treatment of constipation. 

Research Highlights: Rhubarb root’s main constituents are anthraquinone glycosides, including rhein, physcion, emodin, chrysophanol and aloe-emodin, each of which has a laxative effect. Tannins, flavonoids, starches and calcium oxalate are also present.  
  
References:
1. The Complete Guide to Natural Healing, International Masters Publishers, AB. ©2000, 1:142.
2. Armstrong, David. Herbs That Work, Ulysses Press, ©2001, pg. 128.
3. The Complete Guide to Natural Healing, International Masters Publishers, AB. ©2000, 1:142.
4. Mowrey, Daniel. The Scientific Validation of Herbal Medicine, Keats Publishing, ©1986, pg. 171.
5. Armstrong, David. Herbs That Work, Ulysses Press, ©2001, pg. 128.
6. Balch, Phyllis and Balch, James. Prescription for Nutritional Healing, 3rd ed., Avery Publishing, ©2000, pg. 107.
7. The Complete Guide to Natural Healing, International Masters Publishers, AB. ©2000, 1:142.
8. Ibid.

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Alfalfa (Medicago sativa)

Indigenous to the Mediterranean, this plant is now cultivated throughout the world. The entire flowering plant can be used medicinally, as can the germinating seeds.

What it is used for: Alfalfa alkalizes the body and aids in its detoxification, acts as a diuretic, anti-inflammatory and antifungal agent, and lowers cholesterol, balances blood sugar and promotes pituitary gland function. It is used in the treatment of anemia, arthritis, ulcers, bleeding-related disorders, and problems of the digestive system. An incredibly nutritive herb, alfalfa is also anti-rheumatic. It is also antilipidemic and exhibits prolactin-inhibiting effects.

Research Highlights: One study with diabetic mice confirmed that alfalfa exhibits blood sugar lowering effects. In another study, a derivative of alfalfa cured skin lesions of guinea pigs infected with a fungus (Trichophyton mentagrophytes); similar research showed it was effective as a treatment for candidiasis.  
  
References:
1. PDR For Herbal Medicines, 3rd edition, Thompson PDR, ©2004, pg. 11.
2. Ibid.
3. Balch, Phyllis and Balch, James. Prescription for Nutritional Healing, 3rd ed., Avery Publishing, ©2000, pg. 88.
4. Ibid.
5. Mowrey, Daniel. The Scientific Validation of Herbal Medicine, Keats Publishing, ©1986, pg. 2.
6. PDR For Herbal Medicines, 3rd edition, Thompson PDR, ©2004, pg. 11.
7. Ibid.
8. Ibid.

Guar Gum (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba)

Guar gum originated from India, Australia, South Africa and the United State, and is native to the Indian subcontinent. The entire plant can be used medicinally.

What it is used for: Guar gum is particularly useful for regulating digestion and in cases of diarrhea., A bulking agent, it is also useful in promoting a feeling of satiety.
  
References:
1. PDR For Herbal Medicines, 3rd edition, Thompson PDR, ©2004, pg. 418.
2. Ibid.
3. PDR For Herbal Medicines, 3rd edition, Thompson PDR, ©2004, pg. 419.
4. http://www.answers.com/topic/antidiarrhoeal?hl=guar&hl=gum

Peppermint Leaf (Mentha peperita)

First identified in England in 1696, peppermint is a common medicinal herb. Only the leaves are used medicinally; they are often used in pharmaceutical products.

What it is used for: Peppermint increases the acidity of the stomach, thereby aiding digestion. It has a slight anesthetizing effect on the mucous membranes and the gastrointestinal tract. It is useful in the treatment of diarrhea, indigestion, irritable bowel syndrome, nausea, poor appetite, and spasms. It is also well known to be anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcer, antimicrobial, and a safe stimulant. It is often included in herbal remedies and blends because its aromatic quality renders such concoctions more acceptable to the body, more digestible, and actually helps increase the assimilation and utilization by the body’s major systems.

Research Highlights: Numerous studies have elucidated the medicinal value of peppermint. In one double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study, patients with nonulcerative dyspepsia were given an herbal remedy consisting of peppermint and caraway oil. Both primary and secondary analyses indicated the superiority of the peppermint/caraway blend. Another study found that patients using peppermint experienced fewer spasms when undergoing barium enemas. There is also some indication that peppermint can help clear up gallstones; an uncontrolled study involving 31 patients saw a total stone resolution in 73% of the cases when a peppermint derivative was taken regularly.
  
References:
1. The Complete Guide to Natural Healing, International Masters Publishers, AB. ©2000, 1:16.
2. Ibid.
3. Balch, Phyllis and Balch, James. Prescription for Nutritional Healing, 3rd ed., Avery Publishing, ©2000, pg. 106.
4. Ibid.
5. Ibid.
6. Mowrey, Daniel. The Scientific Validation of Herbal Medicine, Keats Publishing, ©1986, pg. 72.
7. Mowrey, Daniel. The Scientific Validation of Herbal Medicine, Keats Publishing, ©1986, pg. 103.
8. PDR For Herbal Medicines, 3rd edition, Thompson PDR, ©2004, pg. 629.
9. Ibid.
10. Ibid.

Uva Ursi Leaf (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi)

Grown in northern Europe, the Alps, northern Asia and North America, uva ursi can be found in light, dry pine and larch forests, in dwarf-shrub areas, in bogs, and in the mountains among dwarf pines. Only the leaves – finely chopped or coarsely ground – are used for medicinal purposes.

What it is used for: Traditionally, uva ursi has been used to help clear up urinary tract infections. It is a potent antibiotic and diuretic, and it is also high in astringent tannins. It is good for disorders of the spleen, liver, pancreas, and small intestine, and useful for bladder and kidney infections and prostate disorders. It is also antimicrobial.

Research Highlights: Uva ursi had a prophylactic effect on recurrent cystitis in a double-blind, randomized study. None of the patients who took the uva ursi-containing supplement provided had a recurrence, compared to 23% of those who received a placebo. Another study conducted on rats proved uva ursi’s diuretic effect. The most medically significant compound in uva ursi seems to be arbutin, which, when transformed by the body into hydroquinone, acts as a strong disinfectant.

References:
1. The Complete Guide to Natural Healing, International Masters Publishers, AB. ©2000, 1:24.
2. Ibid.
3. Armstrong, David. Herbs That Work, Ulysses Press, ©2001, pg. 151.
4. Ibid.
5. Balch, Phyllis and Balch, James. Prescription for Nutritional Healing, 3rd ed., Avery Publishing, ©2000, pg. 111.
6. PDR For Herbal Medicines, 3rd edition, Thompson PDR, ©2004, pg. 848.
7. Ibid.
8. PDR For Herbal Medicines, 3rd edition, Thompson PDR, ©2004, pg. 849.
9. The Complete Guide to Natural Healing, International Masters Publishers, AB. ©2000, 1:24.

 

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