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Product Information A natural, safe, phenolphthalein-free laxative made from the dried bitter fraction of the South African Cape Aloes plant (Aloe ferox)
PROPRIETARY NAME (and dosage form): Natural Laxative (tablets) COMPOSITION: Each tablet contains the following as active ingredient: Aloe ferox extract...............................................200mg (Standardized to 18-24% Aloin) Inactives: Cornstarch, sorbitol, syloid, stearate. PHARMACOLOGICAL ACTION: Aloe ferox is an intensely bitter, yellow sap or juice produced in the peripheral bundle sheath cells just beneath the leaf skin. Aloe ferox contains up to 30% anthraquinones, including glycosides such as barbaloin (aloin), isobarbaloin, and emodin; and free anthraquinones (aglycones) such as aloe-emodin, anthranol, and chrysophanic acid. It also contains resins and aloesin. These water soluble glycosides are split by intestinal bacteria into aglycones, which are believed to exert a more powerful laxative effect than other herbs, including senna, cascara, or rhubarb root. These glycosides cause increased mucous secretion and peristalsis. They also increase fluid and electrolyte secretion into the lumen softening the stools and causing a feeling of distention. The laxative effects occurs within 8 to 12 hours. Aloe ferox is also used for its detoxifying health benefits. Pharmacokinetics: Anthraquinone glycosides, which are well absorbed only after digestion by intestinal bacteria, are eliminated in the urine, bile, faeces and breast milk. INDICATIONS: Natural Laxative has a double action of increasing intestinal contractions (peristalsis) as well as lubricating bowel movement. Natural Laxative is effective in treating short-term, moderate to severe constipation. Natural Laxative also has additional detoxifying health benefits attributed to the Aloe plant. CONTRAINDICATIONS: Not to be taken by individuals suffering from abdominal disease or inflammatory disease of the colon (eg. Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis), appendicitis, intestinal obstruction, haemorrhoids or existing kidney disease. WARNINGS: Do not use this product continuously for more than 10 days without a break as tolerance to the product may develop. Do not exceed recommended dosages unless on the advice of a healthcare provider. Do not use this product if you are allergic to any of the ingredients. If you are on any medication or suffering from any medical condition, it is advisable to seek medical advice before starting any new medicine, supplement or remedy. INTERACTIONS: Cardiac glycoside containing medicines and herbs: Hypokalemia resulting from laxative abuse potentiates the action of cardiac glycosides eg. digoxin and the following herbs: black hellebore, Canadian hemp roots, digitalis leaf, hedge mustard, figwort, lily of the valley roots, motherwort, oleander leaf, pheasant's eye plant, pleurisy root, squill bulb leaf scales, and strophanthus seeds. Anti-arrhythmic medicines, and with medicines which induce reversion to sinus rhythm, eg. quinidine. Thiazide diuretics, adrenocorticosteroids and liquorice may aggrevate electrolyte imbalance. Warfarin: Aloe ferox has stimulant laxative effects. In some people Aloe ferox can cause diarrhoea. Diarrhoea can increase the effects of warfarin, increase international normalized ratio (INR), and increase the risk of bleeding. Individuals who take warfarin should not to take excessive amounts of Aloe ferox. Diabetes: Aloe ferox could cause slight hypoglycaemia and should thus be used with caution in diabetics. PREGNANCY AND BREASTFEEDING: Not to be taken while pregnant or breastfeeding. DOSAGE AND DIRECTIONS FOR USE: Adults and children over 12 years of age: Take 1-2 tablets when needed. Natural Laxative usually works with 8 to 12 hours. Children 7-12 years of age: Take half to 1 tablet daily. Do not use for more than 10 days continuously without a break of a few days, since tolerance (reduced effectiveness) to the product may develop. SIDE EFFECTS AND SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS: Side effects: Natural Laxative can cause abdominal pain and cramps. Long term use and abuse can cause diarrhoea, sometimes with blood, potassium depletion, albuminuria, hematuria, muscle weakness, weight loss, heart disturbance, and pseudomelanosis coli (pigment spots in intestinal mucosa). Prolonged use of high doses (1 gram/day or more) can cause hemorrhagic gastritis, nephritis, and acute renal failure. KNOWN SYMPTOMS OF OVERDOSAGE AND PARTICULARS OF ITS TREATMENT: Treatment should be symptomatic and supportive. In the case of accidental overdose of the product, contact the nearest hospital or poison control centre. IDENTIFICATION: Dark green scored tablets. PRESENTATION: White HDPE container with white HDPE screw cap and seal for protection. Containing 60 tablets. STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS: Store in a cool dry place, out of the reach of children. 
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