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laxative effect. These are usually gentle in action (a single capsule will not have a dramatic influence) and can safely be taken in small doses until the condition is relieved. |
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Arnold Ehret's "intestinal broom" is still famous in health circles nearly 75 years after his death. The recipe, which appears in Arnold Ehret's Mucusless Diet Healing System follows: |
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Combine 6 parts ground senna leaves, 3 parts ground buckthorn bark and 1 part psyllium seed husks. Mix well. Combine 1/10 part powdered sassafras root bark, 1/2 part ground dark anise seed, 1/10 part ground buchu leaves, 1/2 part ground blonde psyllium seed, 1/8 part powdered Irish moss, 1/8 part granulated agar agar and 1/2 part ground dark fennel seed. Mix well with the first three ingredients. |
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To use the intestinal broom, take half a teaspoon or less with a glass of water, the recommended daily dose for adults, or adjust as desired. |
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To brew as a tea, add 1/2 teaspoon to 1 cup boiling water and let stand 10 to 15 minutes. |
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Similar blends of constipation-relieving herbs are sold as tablets and teas in health food stores. Look for ingredients such as those listed above for an effective balance of stimulating, cramp-relieving, aromatic herbs. One famous brand, Swiss Kriss, contains senna, strawberry leaves, peach leaves, anise seed, caraway seed, hibiscus and calendula flowers, a blend that is so fragrant that the loose tea comes with instructions for making a facial steam treatment by pouring boiling water over the herbs and inhaling the steam while covering the head with a large towel. This is one laxative treatment that's as well known as a rejuvenating skin treatment as it is for relieving constipation. |
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John Lust recommends the juice of 1/2 lemon in a glass of warm water in the morning to promote healthy bowel movements, followed by 8 ounces fresh raw carrot juice with 8 ounces apple juice, or 6 ounces carrot juice mixed with 5 ounces beet juice and 5 ounces cucumber juice. |
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Prevent future constipation by drinking large amounts of water and eating more raw fruits and vegetables, dried fruits, whole grains and other whole foods. |
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