What are detox herbs? When researching an herbal encyclopedia or simply browsing the available supplements, one may come across an herbal detox formula. What on earth is an herbal detox formula?
Simply put, some detox herbs formulas will act as a laxative and diuretic while aiding your body in the elimination of toxins (poisonous substance produced during the metabolism and growth of certain microorganisms and some higher plant and animal species).
A laxative herb will be one that stimulates contractions of the intestines and will often contain phenolic derivatives called anthraquinones. Flushing the digestive tract of toxins is one of the oldest and most common types of self-medication.
These types of detox herbs will only affect the digestive system and are consumed either in a capsule or extract form before bed with the purge happening between six to eight hours later.
Some examples of laxative detox herbs are parsley, cascara sagrada bark, senna leaf and licorice root.
A diuretic herb brings on the loss of fluid from the body through the urinary tract. The fluids that are released through the urine do away with toxins and excess liquid. This is an excellent way to cleanse the vascular system and some internal organs like the kidneys and liver.
An advantage to the herbal diuretics is that they are so much milder than compared to harsher alternatives. Herbal diuretics also wield an irritant action caused by flavonoids (any of a group of antioxidant chemical compounds widely found in certain fruits, vegetables, teas, wines, nuts, seeds, and roots, often as a pigment).
These flavonoids also offer the benefit of strengthening capillaries and will act as spasmolytics (drug used to relieve or prevent spasms (especially of the smooth muscles)).
Some examples of diuretic herbs are dandelion, cornsilk, asparagus, blessed thistle, burdock, buchu, butcher’s broom, chickweed, chaparral, grapevine, dog grass, horsetail, hawthorn, ho shou wu, juniper berries, hydrangea, nettle, milk thistle, parsley, peach bark and uva ursi.
One simple detox tea combines the following herbs: 4 parts Peppermint herb, 1 part Red clover tops, 1 part ground Fennel seed, 1 part parsley herb and 1 part Dandelion herb/root.
To prepare tea, use 1 teaspoon of herbal mix per cup of water. Simmer the herbs in the water for 5 to 10 minutes and strain. You can also make this tea in greater quantities and refrigerate it for future use. Drink 1 to 3 cups a day, either hot or cold depending on your preference. Lemon juice may be added for flavor if desired.
When you purchase your detox combination, there are many different choices available online, and in natural food stores.
Individuals who have detoxed claim to feel lighter, have lost weight and have a renewed energy. Enjoy whatever form of detox you choose and relish in your ‘new you’.
Another way to detox the body is to take a small amount of cleansing herbs every day as part of a daily supplement.
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As always, consult your physician and an experienced herbalist before taking any dietary or herbal supplement.