Herbs Used to Detox

Herbs can be powerful sources in the detoxification process to assist in the elimination of wastes from the body. Certain herbs can increase the circulation of the blood through the system to speed up filtration and waste removal. Liver and kidney supportive herbs are essential in detox to keep these organs functioning properly and efficiently. Detoxification should be done mindfully and with a medical professional if you have any health care concerns.

Circulation Stimulants

Cayenne is a powerful herb stimulating blood flow throughout the body and gastrointestinal tract. According to David Hoffman in "Medical Herbalism," cayenne is considered a general tonic for the circulatory and digestive systems. Cayenne is a diaphoretic which increases sweating allowing the skin to eliminate toxins through perspiration. This warming action dilates the blood vessels moving blood faster and bringing it to the surface to essentially clean the body from the inside out. Cayenne powder can be taken in capsule form or stirred into hot water to make a tea, and ingested throughout the day.

Liver Support and Detox

The liver is the largest organ in the body with a primary function of purifying the blood. Circulation stimulants can increase blood flow through the liver, and herbs such as milk thistle can enhance this detoxification process by providing liver support and hepatoprotective effects. Milk thistle is classically used as a liver tonic. In Hoffman's book, studies have shown that milk thistle can protect liver cells that have been damaged by alcohol, chemical toxins and disease and restore cell function. Milk thistle seed can be eaten raw or taken daily in capsule form.

Kidney support

The kidneys constantly filter the blood and fluid in your body to remove wastes like ammonia, drugs and toxins to then be eliminated by the urine. Dandelion leaf is fantastic diuretic enhancing detox by increasing the production and elimination of urine. Dandelion leaf is best used as a tea with large amounts of water to prevent dehydration. The leaves can also be eaten raw in salads.