Originally published January 12 2011
Herbal Detox - Feel great and eliminate harmful toxins
by Fleur Hupston
(NaturalNews) After over-indulging, many people think of going on a detox for a week or so, with the thought that they will go right back to eating whatever they like right after that. While it is certainly a good idea to give the body a break and a chance to heal, eating a variety of organic herbs and vegetables on a regular basis will keep the body in excellent health. Be sure to check with your naturopathic physician before taking any herbal remedies, especially if you have serious health problems. Some herbs are toxic if taken in excess.
Herbs with Detox Properties
Burdock is an herb that is used as a laxative, a detox agent, a diuretic, and a tonic. It can be used in combination with other herbs to help detoxify the body. It is a very powerful herb, so when it is used by itself, it should be used in very limited amount.
Burdock roots help to reduce the build up of heavy metals in the system; they will not only cleanse the body of unwanted toxins, but will also reduce the risk of immune system problems in the future. The safest way to take burdock is to drink a tea made from the herb two or three times a day.
Ciltrano
Known in other parts of the world as coriander, ciltrano is a member of the parsley family and is widely used in Mexican, Mediterranean and Middle-Eastern cooking. All parts of the plant are edible, but the leaves and seeds are commonly used in cooking.
Ciltrano has been shown to contain antioxidants, with the leaves having a stronger effect than the seeds. The herb can help remove heavy metals from the body. Eat the leaves raw in salads.
Nettles
Nettles have some really great detox properties. It is a powerful blood purifier that drives out toxins and metabolic wastes by stimulating the kidneys to excrete more water. Nettle tea is said to clean out the entire intestinal tract while activating the body's natural defense mechanisms. Drink the tea on its own or with lemon.
Milk Thistle
Milk thistle is said to help protein synthesis in the liver. Milk thistle may protect the liver against toxicity from medications known to cause liver problems, alcohol and other drugs. Some herbalists use the herb to treat liver damage from hepatitis, long-term alcohol use and industrial toxins.
Milk thistle may be taken as a tea or in capsule form.
Dandelion
The dandelion root is a blood and kidney cleaner and tonic, as well as a diuretic. It is of benefit to the stomach and intestines, balancing the enzymes that benefit digestion. It is known to enhance the function of the liver.
A tea is easily made by pouring boiling water (4 cups) over a cup of fresh dandelion leaves. Allow to steep for 10 - 15 minutes and then strain.
Sources:
http://herbaldetoxinfo.com/
http://www.naturalnews.com/029039_detox_chem...
http://www.naturalnews.com/027434_cilantro_d...
http://www.hashmi.com/coriander.html
About the author
Fleur Hupston is a professional freelance writer. She is passionate about natural, healthy living and is currently studying to be a naturopath. She divides her time between writing for Natural News and various other sites, home schooling her children and studying part time.
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