Prolax is a herbal alternative formulation, which aids in the relief of simple constipation. This blend of mild cathartics (agents which promote intestinal elimination), in combination with improved dietary habits, will help your body regain control of the elimination process.

Constipation may be chronic, acute, or a simple diet-induced irregularity. Proper cathartic treatment regimens for both chronic and acute constipation are built around the sensible use of several herbs. The proper treatment of diet-induced constipation is to routinely include prunes, bran, and fibre-containing foods in your diet, and to reduce use of caffeine and alcohol.

Butternut, over the last century, has been known as one of the mildest and safest efficacious laxatives available. Butternut root bark is well-documented for its cathartic properties. Butternut is good not only as a laxative, but also as a treatment for liver disorders and intestinal sickness.

The part of the cascara sagrada or “sacred bark” (Rhamnus purshiana) tree that is used is its bark. This tree is native to the northwest Pacific coast and has been used by many tribes of people indigenous to this region, stretching from British Columbia to California, as a remedy for constipation and upset stomachs. Cascara sagrada is known worldwide as a natural mild laxative that works.

Turkish rhubarb, in small doses, makes an excellent strengthening tonic for the stomach; in large doses, it acts as a laxative. Rhubarb root’s purgative action is useful in constipation, but also has an astringent effect following this. It therefore has a truly cleansing action on the gut, removing debris, and has antiseptic properties as well.

Licorice, the grandfather of Chinese herbs, is mostly used as a flavouring for candy, cough drops, syrups, tonics, and laxatives. Licorice is included in most herb combinations to balance the other herbs and to promote vitality. It is a source of magnesium, silicon, and thiamine. Besides being a mild aperient (laxative) itself, it helps to counterbalance the discomforting effects that may result from laxative use. It provides a mild boost to the adrenal system, that may be stressed in certain debilitating conditions for which laxatives are often suggested. Most importantly, licorice root protects and heals distressed mucous membranes of the intestinal tract.

DIRECTIONS OF USE

Adults: Take 2–6 capsules in a single dose the same day, two to three times per week. Allow at least 6 to 12 hours for laxative effect to occur. If results are not observed, the frequency of use may be increased up to once daily. The correct individual dose is the smallest required to produce a soft-formed stool. If you are taking other medications or natural health products, take this product a few hours before or after them.

Duration of use: Consult a health-care practitioner for use beyond 7 days.

INGREDIENTS

Each vegetable capsule contains:
Cascara sagrada (Frangula purshiana) aged bark	180 mg
Butternut (Juglans cinerea) bark	160 mg
Chinese rhubarb (Rheum officinale) root	110 mg
Whole Iris moss (Chondrus crispus)	20 mg
Cayenne (Capsicum annuum) fruit	20 mg
Ginger (Zingiber officinale) rhizome	20 mg
Other ingredients: Vegetable magnesium stearate in a non-⁠GMO vegetable capsule composed of vegetable carbohydrate gum and purified water.

WARNINGS

Contains no: Gluten, soy, wheat, corn, eggs, yeast, citrus, preservatives, artificial flavour or colour, starch, or sugar.

Cautions and warnings: Consult a health-care practitioner if symptoms persist or worsen. Consult a health-care practitioner prior to use if you are taking thiazide diuretics, corticosteroids, licorice root, or any other medication or health product which may aggravate electrolyte imbalance; if you are taking cardiac medications such as cardiac glycosides or antiarrhythmic medications; if you have fecal impaction or symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or fever; or if you have a liver disorder, stomach ulcers or inflammation. Reduce dose or discontinue use if you experience abdominal pain, cramps, spasms and/or diarrhea.

Contraindications: Do not use if you are pregnant or breast-feeding; if you have abnormal constrictions of the gastrointestinal tract, potential or existing intestinal blockage, atonic bowel, appendicitis, inflammatory colon disease such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, abdominal pain of unknown origin, undiagnosed rectal bleeding, severe dehydration with depleted water or electrolytes, or diarrhea; if you have hypokalemia, high blood pressure, or a kidney or cardiovascular disorder; if you have arthritis. Contraindicated in those with a weak stomach and those who do not have constipation.

Known adverse reactions: Hypersensitivity is known to occur; in which case, discontinue use. With chronic use or abuse, disturbances of electrolyte balance, especially potassium deficiency, albuminuria, and hematuria, may occur. Rectal bleeding or failure to have a bowel movement after the use of a laxative may indicate a serious condition. May cause cramp-like discomfort of the gastrointestinal tract, which may require a reduction of dosage. The astringent effect of rhubarb may exacerbate, rather than relieve, symptoms of constipation.

Do not use if seal is broken. Keep out of reach of children.