diseases 205
berry root bark, wild yam root, and red clover fl ower to help soothe
and relax any spasms and reduce the infl ammation.f Drink meadowsweet leaf tea for bouts of diarrhea and to establish
balanced hydrochloric acid and pepsin levels. Chinese licorice root
tea would help any constipation. (In this condition, the two often alter-
nate.)
f Use the herbs recommended for diverticulitis along with bayberry as
a blood cleanser, because it will help the colon wall regain elasticity
and encourage peristalsis.
f Blessed thistle leaf tea helps reduce excessive mucus production and
stimulates digestion. Dr. Christopher also pointed out that it improves
the tone, structure, and elasticity of the bowel walls, as well as aiding
detoxifi cation.
constipation
The results of constipation are far-reaching — not only does it distort the
colon and build up toxins but the thyroid can also become underactive as
the entire metabolism slows down. The liver and, in particular, the
gallbladder can become stagnant and diseased; vice versa, a poorly
functioning liver can cause constipation. The stomach and pancreas can
also suffer, and even the kidneys can become alarmingly involved. Brain
function becomes clearer and sharper with a clean colon. Conversely, a
congested colon can produce all kinds of memory and brain function
problems. Skin eruptions, swollen glands, general fatigue, and a
consistently and increasingly inoperative immune system are some of the
possible effects of constipation. The body will become more and more
intolerant to specifi c foods as general toxicity builds up. The whole
emotional pattern becomes depressed, tense, angry, and, of course, uptight!
As with many things, because of the complexity of their hormones,
women tend to suffer much more from constipation than men do. The
female abdominal structure has a part to play in this as well. Check that
you do not have candida, as it can cause constipation. Surgical scars or a
malfunctioning colon caused by adhesions where the walls of the colon
are growing together may initially cause constipation, so always consider
these factors. Tumors and cancers cause blockages, but so does
ballooning. Good bowel cleanses and detoxifi cation programs can give
you some answers to where the diffi culties lie if conventional diagnosis is
inconclusive. See also the sections on the colon in chapters 6 and 9.
A^ f Correct any lack of nerve nourishment with appropriate food and
herbs, especially paying attention to magnesium (and calcium).
205 The Complete Home Guide to Herbs, Natural Healing, and Nutrition