Herbal laxatives are formulated with cleansing herbs that trigger gut muscles to empty the bowel. This can cause cramping and nausea. Laxatives that contain milk of magnesia, pulls fluid into the intestines to produce a flushing action. This can cause dehydration. Oxy-Powder is different because it gently softens your impacted stool so it can be moved through your colon without any cramping or discomfort.