Less is More when you are embarking on a De-Tox program or as I like to call it a Cleansing program. It can be short or long term. Our bodies have a built in cleansing system, the plants help us work with the body’s natural rhythm.
There is a category of plants that used to be called “blood cleaners or blood purifiers”, which back when I started studying the plants I used to think was an archaic term. Actually it is a very descriptive term which refers to plants that have a history of moving unwanted substances out of the body through the master cleaner organ, the liver.
My favorite plants which grow around here in the northeast, Burdock root, Dandelion root and Milk Thistle Seed are recognized as effective cleansing tonics.
Roots require a strong water preparation which is called a decoction. To make a decoction you put the cut up roots into a pan with cold water. Bring to a boil then simmer for 20 minutes. You can combine the roots with fennel seed, a small amount of ginger or cinnamon for added flavor. The roots can be ground up into a powder form and put into a smoothie, applesauce or capsule for an easy way to take them. Milk thistle seed is best ground up or used as a tincture. It is not effective as a tea preparation.
Cilantro which is available in grocery stores helps move unwanted substances out of the body and just by adding the fresh herb to foods it can be helpful.
I also like Nettles, Oats, Tulsi, and Alfalfa as a teas or infusions. This category of herbs are very nutritious and the tea preparation is a great way to absorb those wanted nutrients.
Fruits and vegetables are loaded with fiber and nutrients which help creating a healthier body. The foods and drinks that you don’t eat are sometimes more important than what you do eat.
Using herbal plants externally, such as Yarrow, Rosemary or Ginger in an herbal bath or foot bath is very effective. Lavender and Roses are great additions for their calming qualities. Epson salt baths have been used for centuries in this manner. The best way to using plants in a bath is to soak the plants ahead of time ( 30 mins) in a large amount of water then strain the plant material out and add to the bath. That way you get the benefit of the plants healing attributes.
How long should you do this depends on what your body feels it needs. The best way is to create a plan for a week or so. Don’t do everything at once as it will make things worse rather than better. The words ‘healing crisis’ refer to this situation. Better to go slow and steady. Make sure you rest, better yet get more sleep as the body repairs itself when it sleeps.
A word of caution: Be wary of detoxification formulas that contain plant diuretics such as dandelion leaf or laxatives such as senna. Check out the ingredient list on what you intend on using and look up the actions of the herbal plants. Be informed and make wise choices. The goal is to gently work with the body and slowly heal the body by ingesting tonic herbs helping the body do its job.
