Poor diet, environmental pollutants and numerous other stressors in daily life can cause toxins to build up in the body. Many herbal formulas are available over the counter at health and drug stores to aid in a detoxification process, which may help reduce fatigue and illnesses. Since many detoxifying herbs have multiple effects, you should consult a health professional before beginning a detoxification regimen.
Dandelion
The kidneys and liver are better able to remove toxins from the blood due to the purifying elements of this herb. A mild laxative effect may also occur with the use of the dandelion, helping to flush toxins from the colon. According to Dr. Gary Null, using one to two grams of dandelion root daily can also be effective in detoxifying the liver in cases of alcoholism. This herb should be avoided while taking antibiotics and should only be used under the supervision of a health professional if you are taking a pharmaceutical diuretic.
Milk Thistle
Milk thistle contains silymarin, a powerful compound that helps protect the liver cells from a variety of toxins. Dr. Ellen Feingold states that this herb is both a liver tonic and detoxifier. Since the liver is responsible for processing nutrients, as well as toxins, it is vital for the purification of the substances coming into the body through the intestinal tract. Women who are taking birth control pills may wish to avoid the use of milk thistle, as it may reduce the effectiveness of their prescription.
Psyllium
The most common benefit of psyllium is dietary fiber. Those who consume the herb often do so to relieve digestive aliments such as constipation, diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome, according to Dr. Ellen Feingold. The husks of the psyllium plant increase the bulk of the stools to help move out toxins more efficiently from the intestines. This herb is used in many formulations for colon detoxification because of its ability to bind toxins into fecal matter so they are not absorbed into the blood.
Pregnant women should avoid the use of psyllium, along with other laxatives, as the lower pelvis may be stimulated. Diabetics may also experience a reduction in blood sugar when using this herb, so carefully monitor glucose levels under the supervision of a health professional if you decide to use it.
Burdock Root
Burdock root is often used as a blood purifier to clear circulatory and lymphatic congestion. Since it works to alleviate excessive body fluids, toxins are more efficiently removed. This is also a result of burdock’s ability to increase perspiration.
According to expert author Phyllis A. Balch, this herb is a kidney and gallbladder detoxifier that cleanses the body of excess bile. Consuming large quantities of burdock root may stimulate uterine contractions; therefore, it should be avoided during pregnancy. Since it may aid in the conversion of testosterone into estrogen, this herb is not suggested for people with estrogen-related disorders.
References
- Holistic Health News: Dandelions!
- Botanical: Burdock
- "Prescription for Herbal Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch; 2002
- “Homeopathy, Herbal Remedies, and Nutritional Supplements”; Ellen Feingold, MD; 2008
- “Complete Encyclopedia of Natural Healing”; Gary Null, Ph. D; 2005
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