The
New Year is here again, how it’s flown by. Time to think of where we are, and
how we would like to change our life. Life is a journey towards perfection; one
must be always aiming at perfection but live in the reality of not being
perfect and content with where we are, at any given time. A great way to start
the year is with a detox.
One of the bodies’ natural means of
staying healthy is its ability to detoxify itself. It is impossible to be
totally toxin free; the body always must maintain a balance through elimination
and neutralization of body toxins in order to maintain health. As living beings
we cannot escape toxins. An interesting example of the symbiotic relationship
between the body and its “toxins” is the digestive system. Our digestive system
contains the intestinal micro-flora, composed of hundreds of fungal and
bacterial strains. This internal environment is essential for good health. This
micro-flora has been shown to perform essential functions such as vitamin and
mineral production and utilization, regulating intestinal pH and stimulating
antibody production.
Body toxins can be divided into two
types – one created by the body itself and one, which result from accumulation
of chemical and heavy metal environmental pollutants. Both may in turn
predispose an individual to infections, especially viral, fungal and parasitic
infections. This is the reason why it is good to detox at regular intervals.
The organs of detoxification are the
liver, kidneys, bowels, lungs and the skin. Avoiding harmful chemicals found in
such things as junk food, drugs or smoking, as well as supporting the organs in
their detoxifying action is vital in maintaining and restoring health.
Sufficient fluid intake, up to 2-3 litres of water a day, supports the eliminating
function of the kidney, the bowels and the skin. We often forget the skins
vital function as detoxifying organ; yet many therapies rest on its ability to
do so, including saunas, which promote sweating.
Healthy circulatory and lymphatic
systems support detoxification. When those become sluggish, too many waste
products are left behind in the tissues. Regular exercise and alternating hot
and cold baths or showers invigorate both, the circulatory and lymphatic
systems.
Fasting is a very effective method of
detoxification, though it is only appropriate for individuals in good health.
It is unwise to fast if unwell, weak after an illness or if you have a
digestive problem like a peptic ulcer.
Herbal remedies are great at aiding
detoxification – they will both eliminate and neutralize toxins in the body.
Remedies to aid the eliminating function of the kidneys include Dandelion leaf,
Cleavers and Celery seed. These herbs will help the kidneys pass metabolites
like uric acid and urea, which can cause joint and muscle pain.
The liver is the main organ of both
elimination and neutralization. Remedies like Dandelion root, Milk Thistle and
Sheep’s Sorrel will greatly aid this vital organ in its job, of keeping the
body balance of toxins at the correct levels, in order to maintain good health.
Happy
New Year to all the readers, may it be a good one!
David
Foley
MRCHM,
MNIMH
Medical
Herbalist
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