A.Vogel Flax Laxative Traditional herbal laxative for the relief of constipation. Herbal laxative in granules Gluten- and lactose-free Composition Each gram contains: Medicinal ingredients: Flax seed (Linum usitatissimum) ...430 mg; Senna leaf (Folium sennae) ...129 mg; Buckthorn bark (Rhamnus frangula) ...11 mg Non-medicinal ingredients: Talc, sugar cane, calcium carbonate, acacia gum, red and black iron oxide, calcium lactate, vanillin and ginger oil. Dosage Adults: take 1 teaspoon (4 g) at bedtime, followed by a large glass of water. Swallow without chewing. Historical overview Flaxseed has been used as a food since Antiquity. Its laxative and intestinal lubricant effects come from its mucilage content. Contrary to hard fibers like wheat bran, mucilage is a soluble fiber that makes a protective and soothing gel on mucous membranes (Flaxseed is also used to remove foreign bodies from the eye). Senna and Buckthorn , stimulant laxatives, are traditionally used to relieve occasional constipation. Senna is mentioned in the Indian Veda (thousand year old sacred texts). Actions and pharmacology Flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum) Flaxseed, ground or whole, is a source of mucilage. Mucilage is a dietary fiber that swells in the intestine to form a viscous and lubricant substance (mucilagenous). This substance is therefore responsible not only for the bulk laxative effect but also for the soothing effect on irritated mucous membranes. Moreover, Flaxseed mucilage adsorbs biliary acids and promotes their elimination, increasing cholesterol elimination. The German Commission E acknowledges its benefits in cases of: chronic constipation, for colons damaged by laxative abuse, irritable bowels, diverticulitis, as mucilage for gastritis an enteritis.(1) (Note : Linoforce® is a complex product. The uses described in this paragraph apply to Flaxseed alone.) Senna leaf (Cassia alexandrina) and Buckthorn bark (Rhamnus frangula) Senna and Buckthorn are called anthraquinonic laxatives because they contain anthraquinones. The stimulant laxative effect of these substances is caused by two distinct mechanisms: direct stimulation of the intestinal muscles, which increases peristalsis; and irritation of the mucous membrane, bringing more water in the intestine and facilitating bowel movements. The active substances of Senna are called senosides.The German Commission E acknowledges the benefits of Senna and Buckthorn in cases of: constipation (maximum 1 to 2 weeks usage).(1)The combination of the soothing effects of Flaxseed with stimulant laxatives promotes soft and easy bowel movements without irritating bowel walls. Linoforce®s effect is generally felt within 6 to 8 hours. Precautions, contraindications and interactions Do not use in presence of abdominal pain, nausea, fever or vomiting. Do not take within 2 hours of another medicine, as the beneficial effect of the other medicine could be reduced. Overuse or prolonged use may result in intestinal function dependency. Do not take any type of laxative for more than one week without consulting a healthcare practitioner. Avoid taking in case of known allergy to any of the ingredients in the product. Do not use if security cap is broken. Keep out of the reach of children. References 1-The Complete German Commission E Monographs, Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. Blumenthal M et al 1998. American Botanical Council, 6200 Manor Rd, Austin, Texas, 78723. 2-Natural Medicines Comprehensive DataBase 2001. Pharmacist's Letter 3120 W. March Lane, PO Box 8190, Stockton, CA 95208