Herbs That Detox The Bloodstream

The typical individual faces a continued assault from man-made chemicals each day. As such, the toxic burden in your bloodstream may rise to problematic levels, burdening your liver and causing disruptions to normal function that may result in digestive problems and emotional disturbances. So says Christopher Hobbs, a master herbalist and the author of the book "Natural Therapy For Your Liver." Hobbs says taking steps to detoxify the body can trigger improvements in a wide range of conditions and that particular herbs stand out as useful ways to go about this. Consult your doctor before taking any herbs to detox the bloodstream.

Turmeric

Turmeric, Latin name curcuma longa, has long featured in the cooking of many civilizations and gives many curries their rich orange tones. However, the herb also contains a compound called curcumin that possesses powerful antioxidant properties. Not only does this help reduce inflammation and work against the development of cancer, says Hobbs, but the antioxidant potential can help the liver process a wide variety of toxins. Hobbs also notes that the consumption of turmeric can also help improve bile flow and reduce gallbladder inflammation. Speak to your physician if you wish to use turmeric medicinally.

Milkthistle

Long used as a liver tonic, milkthistle remains a favorite herb to protect the liver before or after the consumption of alcohol. It also helps remove toxins from the liver and bloodstream; the herb increases the rate at which liver cells regenerate, improving its capability to withstand toxic insults, according to the Mayo Clinic. The academics credit a flavonoid compound called silymarin with these effects, and note that this herb has featured in treatment protocols for more than 2,000 years. Consult your physician before using milkthistle.

Dandelion

One of the best known herbs for detoxification, you will likely have little difficulty in finding dandelion root products in local health shops due to its high availability. Xandria Williams, a naturopathic practitioner and the author of "The Liver Detox Plan," reports how the herb stimulates the flow of bile from the gall bladder. This action removes toxins from the liver, allowing the organ to continue its filtering of the blood stream, as well as improving digestion. You can consume dandelion as a tea, capsule or fluid extracts.