One of the body’s natural means of staying healthy is its ability to detoxify itself. Because the concept of toxins has historically been so closely linked with the body’s natural discharges, any discussion of body toxins is bound to reveal our basic attitude to the body and its eliminations. Any attempt to achieve a sterile, toxin-free body can now be seen as a misguided one, arising from an ancient notion of the need to purify the “unclean temple” of the body.
Today we know that it is quite impossible to be totally toxin-free: the intestinal micro flora, the interstitial fluid and the connective tissue are always bathed in toxins of many kinds. The body maintains a balance through elimination and neutralisation of the 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 in the digestive system. Our digestive system contains the intestinal micro flora, composed of hundreds of fungal and bacterial strains. The micro flora has been shown to perform essential functions such as vitamin and mineral production and utilisation, regulating intestinal pH and stimulating antibody production. When it becomes unbalanced - due to, for example, antibiotic drugs - it can lead to ill-health in an individual.
Body toxins can be divided into two types - ones created by the body itself and ones which result from accumulation of chemical and heavy metal environmental pollutants. Both may in turn predispose an individual to infection, especially viral, fungal and parasitic infections.
The organs of detoxification are the liver, kidneys, bowels, lungs and the skin. Avoiding harmful substances - such as junk food, drugs and smoke - as well as supporting the organs in their detoxifying action is vital in maintaining and restoring health. Sufficient fluid intake supports the eliminating function of the kidney, the bowels and the skin. We often forget the skin’s function as a 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 these become sluggish, too many waste products are left behind in the tissues. Regular exercise and alternating hot and cold baths invigorate both 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 or with a weak digestive system (e.g. peptic ulcers).
Many herbal remedies have been used to aid the body in both neutralising and eliminating toxins. 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 pains.
The liver is the main organ of both elimination and neutralisation. Remedies like Dandelion root, Gentian Root, Milk-thistle and Sheep’s Sorrel will greatly aid this vital organ in its job of keeping the body’s balance of toxins in the correct proportion in order to maintain good health.
At this time of year with the days getting longer, it was always traditional to aid the body in its work by taking a good Detox, and with it came hope for a new start to the New Year and all its possibilities.
David Foley
MNIMH, MRCHM
Medical Herbalist
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