Para Cleanse Nature’s Sunshine – 10-Day Intestinal Program

Name: Para-Cleanse
Brand: Nature's Sunshine
SKU: 4115
Price: 32.60 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.6 (63 reviews)

Explore Nature's Sunshine Para-Cleanse, a 10-day herbal intestinal cleanse with Black walnut, Paw paw, Pumpkin seed & more. In-depth ingredient guide.

Overview

What Is Para-Cleanse from Nature's Sunshine?

Nature's Sunshine Para-Cleanse is a structured, 10-day herbal program designed to support the natural cleansing processes of the intestinal system and encourage a healthy digestive environment. Each day's supply is organized into convenient cello packets containing a carefully chosen combination of botanicals: 1 Paw paw Cell-Reg™ capsule, 2 Herbal Pumpkin Combination capsules, 1 Black walnut ATC Concentrate capsule, and 2 Artemisia Combination capsules.

The formula draws on herbs with long histories of traditional use for intestinal wellness — including Black walnut hulls, Pumpkin seed, Cascara sagrada bark, and Sweet wormwood — alongside supportive botanicals like Marshmallow root, Slippery elm bark, and Chamomile. Together, these ingredients make para cleanse Nature's Sunshine a comprehensive approach to digestive cleansing and gut microbiome support.

If you have questions about whether this program is right for your personal health goals, our naturopath is available for a free consultation to help guide you.

How It Works

A Multi-Herb Approach to Intestinal Cleansing

Para-Cleanse combines herbs that have traditionally been used to create an inhospitable environment for unwanted organisms in the gut while simultaneously supporting the body's own elimination pathways. Black walnut hulls, for example, have been used for centuries in North American and European folk medicine to support intestinal cleansing, while Pumpkin seeds contain cucurbitin, a compound studied for its effects on intestinal helminths.

The formula also includes herbs traditionally used to promote healthy bowel transit. Cascara sagrada bark contains cascarosides that stimulate colonic peristalsis and inhibit water reabsorption, while Ginger rhizome is a well-documented prokinetic herb that promotes gastrointestinal motility. Marshmallow root and Slippery elm bark contribute soothing mucilage that may help coat and protect the intestinal lining during the cleansing process.

Several ingredients in the formula — including Elecampane root, Garlic bulb, and Turmeric root extract — also provide prebiotic or microbiome-supporting properties, which may help promote a balanced gut environment during and after the cleanse.

What's inside

Key Ingredients

Black walnut unripe hulls extract — 480 mg

Black walnut (Juglans nigra) hull has been used for centuries in North American and European folk medicine to expel intestinal worms. Its active compound juglone shows antiparasitic activity in vitro and in animal models against nematodes, Giardia, and Entamoeba, though robust human clinical trials are lacking. Research also suggests that walnut consumption positively modifies gut microbial communities, increasing butyrate-producing bacteria such as Faecalibacterium and Roseburia and reducing pro-inflammatory secondary bile acids. An in vitro digestion study of walnut green husk showed selective modulation of gut microbiota with inhibition of pro-inflammatory bacteria. Traditionally, the hulls and bark are classified in herbalism as having mild laxative properties, and Native Americans used various parts of the tree for intestinal complaints.

acetogenins (from Paw paw twig extract) — 8.5 mg

Paw paw (Asimina triloba) twig extract supplies acetogenins, potent inhibitors of mitochondrial complex I that block ATP production in targeted cells. Native Americans commonly used the fruit, bark, and leaves for digestive issues and parasitic infections, and the extract in capsule form has been used as a natural anthelmintic. Acetogenins also show antiparasitic and pesticidal activity in laboratory bioassays. The inhibition of mitochondrial respiration and subsequent ATP production may account for the broad biological activities attributed to these compounds. Carica papaya seeds and latex — whose bioactives share functional overlap with the papain-class enzymes historically referenced alongside Paw paw — demonstrate anthelmintic activity supported by experimental and some clinical evidence, and papain's proteolytic action may facilitate intestinal transit.

Pumpkin seed — 980 mg

Pumpkin seeds (Cucurbita pepo) contain cucurbitin, a compound that paralyzes intestinal helminths by disrupting their neuromuscular function. In vitro and animal studies confirm efficacy against tapeworms, roundworms, and Trichinella spiralis, and Pumpkin seeds are widely recognized as a traditional anthelmintic across multiple cultures — from Native American use to Aztec medicine to European folk practice. Pumpkin flesh is also a meaningful source of dietary fiber, which adds bulk to stool and promotes regular bowel movements. Both soluble fiber (pectin) and insoluble fiber fractions contribute to gastrointestinal motility.

Black walnut hulls — 980 mg

This additional serving of Black walnut (Juglans nigra) hulls provides a complementary dose of juglone, hydrojuglone, and tannins alongside the concentrated extract above. The hulls have been used in North American and European folk medicine for centuries as a remedy for intestinal parasites and digestive disturbances attributed to the large intestine. Juglone disrupts microbial respiratory chains and shows antiparasitic activity in Trypanosoma screening models. A 2015 study confirmed hydrojuglone glucoside as the dominant antitrypanosomal compound in J. nigra. Tannins in the hulls contribute to an astringent environment in the gut and create conditions traditionally believed to be unfavorable for parasites.

Cascara sagrada bark — 980 mg

Cascara sagrada (Rhamnus purshiana) bark is a traditional North American laxative used by Native Americans for centuries. Its active cascarosides — anthraquinone derivatives comprising 60–70% of the glycoside fraction — stimulate peristalsis and inhibit colon water reabsorption, typically producing a bowel movement within 6–8 hours. It was formerly an FDA-approved OTC laxative and remains widely used in colon-cleanse products. Anthraquinone-containing herbs including Cascara sagrada also have a traditional history of use as purgatives to expel intestinal parasites; the premise is that forceful bowel evacuation mechanically removes parasites from the gut.

Chamomile flowers — 980 mg

Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) has centuries of traditional use in European herbalism as a gastrointestinal antispasmodic, carminative, and anti-inflammatory agent for the intestines, including the colon. The German Commission E has a positive monograph for Chamomile for GI spasms and inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. In vitro evidence supports antispasmodic activity, with relaxant effects detected on human jejunum preparations, providing scientific reassurance for its traditional use in spasmodic gastrointestinal disorders.

Mullein leaves — 980 mg

Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) is a medicinal herb with a long history of therapeutic use as an astringent and calming agent. Preliminary phytochemical tests and bioassays have evaluated the anthelmintic activity of V. thapsus using fresh adult roundworms and tapeworms in vitro, though this evidence is preclinical only. The plant's saponins, mucilage, and tannins provide soothing properties to the intestinal tract, and Mullein has been used traditionally to reduce gut inflammation and support digestive comfort.

Marshmallow root extract (althaea officinalis) — 980 mg

Marshmallow root (Althaea officinalis) contains high mucilage content — up to 35% of the dry weight — that coats and soothes the intestinal lining. It has been used traditionally as a gastrointestinal demulcent in colon-cleanse formulas, and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) recognizes Marshmallow root for soothing mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract. The German Commission E and ESCOP also list indications for mild gastrointestinal complaints. The mucilage may also provide mild bulk-forming effects that support regular bowel movements.

slippery elm inner bark — 980 mg

Slippery elm (Ulmus rubra) inner bark produces a thick mucilage that coats and soothes the intestinal and colonic lining. It has been used in North American herbal medicine for centuries as a demulcent and gentle bowel normalizer. Slippery elm bark polysaccharides and arabinogalactan-type fibers have documented prebiotic potential, feeding Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species. A 2018 review in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine specifically evaluated slippery elm among herbs with prebiotic potential for digestive health, and a 2020 clinical study documented improved microbial profiles in participants taking a slippery elm-containing formula.

Elecampane root — 778 mg

Elecampane (Inula helenium) root contains up to 44% inulin, a prebiotic fructooligosaccharide with robust clinical evidence for selectively promoting beneficial gut bacteria including Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus species. Alantolactone from Elecampane root has documented anthelmintic activity, and a published study evaluated traditional herbs including Elecampane against Ascaris lumbricoides. The British Herbal Pharmacopoeia and multiple ethnobotanical records confirm its historical use against intestinal worms. The plant's sesquiterpene lactones also provide antimicrobial properties that may support a healthier intestinal environment.

Mugwort aerial parts — 778 mg

Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) is documented as an antiparasitic and anthelmintic herb across European, Asian, and Ayurvedic traditions. The plant's use against intestinal worms is one of its oldest recorded applications, and it has been valued in European medicine since the Middle Ages as the 'mother of herbs.' Preclinical evidence supports antiparasitic activity of Artemisia species generally, though no human clinical trials specifically on A. vulgaris for parasites exist. Its bitter constituents — including sesquiterpene lactones and essential oil components — also support digestive secretions.

Clove flower — 778 mg

Clove (Syzygium aromaticum) contains eugenol, which has been demonstrated in published research to be an effective anthelmintic against Trichinella spiralis in vitro, with additional evidence against Giardia, Fasciola, and Haemonchus. Clove is traditionally paired with wormwood and Black walnut in antiparasitic protocols to target parasite eggs. Clove essential oil also contains β-caryophyllene and exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. In TCM, cloves help descend qi and are considered excellent for relieving digestive discomfort.

Garlic bulb — 778 mg

Garlic (Allium sativum) bulb is the primary source of allicin and organosulfur compounds documented to inhibit Giardia, Entamoeba, and gastrointestinal helminths in vitro and in animal models. A 2024 in vivo swine study confirmed reduced parasite intensity with garlic powder. Garlic's fructan content also acts as a prebiotic, supporting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria including Lactobacillus and Clostridial species. Clinical evidence shows aged garlic extract supplementation for 3 months improved microbial richness and diversity in hypertensive subjects.

Ginger rhizome — 778 mg

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is a well-documented prokinetic herb that stimulates gastrointestinal motility and increases colonic peristalsis, making it relevant to colon cleansing as a motility enhancer. Multiple RCTs have demonstrated its efficacy in accelerating gastric emptying and intestinal transit. A meta-analysis of 5 RCTs confirmed Ginger accelerates gastric emptying in humans. Ginger has traditional use in Ayurvedic, Chinese, and African medicine for intestinal parasite conditions, and a published in vitro study evaluated Ginger extracts against Trichinella spiralis and Trichinella britovi larvae.

Spearmint leaf and flower — 778 mg

Spearmint (Mentha spicata) has been used in traditional Iranian medicine since ancient times for the management of diarrhea, indigestion, intestinal weakness, abdominal pain, and flatulence. Its essential oil components — primarily carvone and limonene — contribute antispasmodic and carminative effects. In vitro work showed that spearmint oil significantly inhibited IL-1β and TNF-α secretion from LPS-stimulated macrophages, and both spearmint and peppermint oils dose-dependently inhibited growth of pathogenic bacteria in vitro.

Turmeric root extract — 778 mg

Turmeric's active compound curcumin disrupts microtubule assembly in Giardia lamblia trophozoites, damaging the parasite's ventral disk and flagella. In vitro studies also document activity against Plasmodium, Leishmania, and Toxoplasma, and Turmeric appears in traditional Ayurvedic antiparasitic protocols. Research suggests curcumin modulates gut microbiota composition, promoting beneficial bacteria while suppressing pathogenic strains. Curcumin accumulates at high concentrations in the colon due to poor systemic absorption, enabling potent local anti-inflammatory, barrier-protecting, and microbiome-modulating effects. RCTs and meta-analyses confirm clinical benefit of curcumin in ulcerative colitis.

Olive leaf extract — 778 mg

Olive leaf extract from Olea europaea contains oleuropein and hydroxytyrosol, phenolic compounds with demonstrated antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Laboratory studies have shown that Olive leaf polyphenols are anti-inflammatory and protect against DNA damage initiated by free radicals. Olive oil phenolic compounds selectively promote beneficial gut bacteria, increase alpha diversity, and enhance short-chain fatty acid production. A 2026 prospective cohort of 656 older adults linked virgin Olive oil consumption to beneficial gut microbiota composition. EVOO also strengthens intestinal barrier integrity.

Sweet wormwood aerial parts — 778 mg

Sweet wormwood (Artemisia annua) is the source of the Nobel Prize-winning compound artemisinin, used in the treatment of malaria. Artemisinin shows clinical trial evidence against schistosomiasis and in vitro activity against Giardia. Traditional Chinese medicine use is documented since 341 AD for treating intermittent fevers and parasitic conditions. Artemisinin and its derivatives have also been studied extensively in rodent colitis models, demonstrating reduction of colonic inflammation, cytokine levels, edema, and ulceration — making the colon a primary site of pharmacological action for these compounds.

extra virgin Olive oil base

Extra virgin Olive oil serves as the carrier base for the formula, providing its own spectrum of bioactive compounds including oleic acid, hydroxytyrosol, and oleocanthal. Olive oil phenolic compounds have been shown to selectively promote beneficial gut bacteria and enhance short-chain fatty acid production. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has authorized a health claim for Olive oil polyphenols contributing to the protection of blood lipids from oxidative damage. The oil's natural emulsifying properties also support nutrient absorption from the other botanical ingredients.

sunflower Lecithin

Sunflower Lecithin provides phospholipids — including phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, and phosphatidylinositol — that serve as natural emulsifiers in the formula. These phospholipids help the botanical extracts blend properly and may support their absorption. Sunflower-sourced Lecithin avoids the allergen concerns associated with soy-derived Lecithin, making it a gentler choice for sensitive individuals. Phosphatidylcholine is also a normal component of cell membranes throughout the body and contributes to healthy cellular function.

Para-Cleanse

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Para-Cleanse

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Who It's For

Who May Benefit from Para-Cleanse

Para-Cleanse from Nature's Sunshine is designed for adults looking to support their body's natural digestive cleansing processes and encourage a healthier intestinal environment. It may appeal to individuals who periodically want to reset their digestive system or who are drawn to traditional herbal approaches to intestinal wellness.

This 10-day program is not intended for prolonged use. See your health care provider prior to use if you are pregnant or nursing, if any medical condition exists, or when taking any medication. Do not use if diarrhea, loose stools, or abdominal pain are present or develop — use of this product may worsen these conditions and be harmful to your health. Chronic diarrhea can result in serious illness.

If you're unsure whether a digestive cleanse is appropriate for your situation, we encourage you to take advantage of our free naturopathic consultation. Our naturopath can help you determine whether Para-Cleanse fits your individual wellness plan.

Directions

How to Take Para-Cleanse

Take the contents of one cello packet twice a day, 15 minutes before your morning and evening meals, with at least 8 oz. of pure water. Continue the program for 10 days, eating lots of fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grains.

Important: See your health care provider prior to use if: pregnant or nursing, any medical condition exists, or when taking any medication. Read and follow recommendation carefully. Not intended for prolonged use. Do not use if diarrhea, loose stools or abdominal pain are present or develop. Use of this product may worsen these conditions and be harmful to your health. Chronic diarrhea can result in serious illness.

About the author

Written by Greg Howlett

Greg Howlett

Founder

Greg has spent over a decade helping customers choose the right natural-health products. He personally vets every formula we carry and writes these guides to cut through the marketing noise with practical, experience-based advice.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Para-Cleanse program?

Para-Cleanse is a 10-day program. You take the contents of one cello packet twice daily — 15 minutes before your morning and evening meals — with at least 8 oz. of pure water. The program is not intended for prolonged use beyond the 10-day period.

What herbs are in Para-Cleanse?

Each daily serving includes a combination of Black walnut unripe hulls extract and Black walnut hulls, Paw paw twig extract (standardized to acetogenins), Pumpkin seed, Cascara sagrada bark, Chamomile flowers, Mullein leaves, Marshmallow root extract, slippery elm inner bark, Elecampane root, Mugwort aerial parts, Clove flower, Garlic bulb, Ginger rhizome, Spearmint leaf and flower, Turmeric root extract, Olive leaf extract, Sweet wormwood aerial parts, extra virgin Olive oil, and sunflower Lecithin.

Is there evidence that these herbs support intestinal cleansing?

Many of the herbs in Para-Cleanse have long histories of traditional use for intestinal cleansing. Black walnut hull, Pumpkin seed, Mugwort, Clove, and Sweet wormwood have been used traditionally to create an inhospitable environment for unwanted intestinal organisms. Preclinical research — including in vitro and animal studies — supports antiparasitic activity for compounds like juglone (Black walnut), cucurbitin (Pumpkin seed), eugenol (Clove), and artemisinin (Sweet wormwood), though robust human clinical trials for most of these herbs in this specific application are still lacking.

Can I take Para-Cleanse if I'm on medication?

You should see your health care provider prior to use if any medical condition exists or when taking any medication. Several herbs in the formula — including garlic, Ginger, Turmeric, and Cascara sagrada — have known interactions with certain medications, particularly blood thinners, blood pressure medications, and blood sugar-lowering drugs. Our naturopath is also available for a free consultation to discuss your individual situation.

Does Para-Cleanse support gut microbiome health?

Yes, several ingredients in the formula have been associated with supporting beneficial gut bacteria. Research suggests that walnut consumption positively modifies gut microbial communities. Elecampane root contains up to 44% inulin, a prebiotic that selectively promotes Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus species. Slippery elm bark polysaccharides have documented prebiotic potential, and garlic's fructan content supports the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Turmeric has also been shown in emerging research to modulate gut microbiota composition.

Is Para-Cleanse safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Para-Cleanse is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding without consulting your health care provider first. The product label states: See your health care provider prior to use if pregnant or nursing. Several herbs in the formula — including Cascara sagrada, Mugwort, and Sweet wormwood — have traditional cautions regarding use during pregnancy.

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