Many people are becoming aware of the benefits of detoxing. As more chemicals make their way into the air we breathe and the food we eat, more people are feeling stressed, exhausted, and just plain old at younger ages than before. Poor digestion, aching joints, insomnia, and a feeling of down to the bone exhaustion are common complaints even from people in their twenties. Detoxes help your body’s natural cleansing processes, which flush toxins out of your system and allow your body to function at optimal levels. The result is that people who undergo detoxes feel and look younger.
When doing a detox program, certain herbs are very beneficial. Taking the correct supplements can greatly increase your results, and have you experiencing the wellness and anti-aging benefits sooner. It is important to fully research the effects of any herb before you add it to your detox program. Certain herbs can interact with each other, or with prescription medications, to produce undesirable results. For example, taking too many herbs with laxative or diuretic effects can cause dehydration, and taking too many herbs that cause the beneficial effect of lowering blood pressure can result in episodes of dizziness or even fainting. Herbs that are used responsibly are very beneficial, however, so as long as you pay attention to what you are taking, herbs can really power up your detox.
There are many herbs with diuretic and laxative effects. A gentle laxative helps the bowels sweep out debris and toxins, while a diuretic will decrease the storage of extra water in the body. This will reduce bloat, and slim the appearance of the stomach. Plumpness in the face can also be reduced during a detox through the moderate use of a diuretic. These herbs should not all be taken together, as it would be extremely dangerous, but choosing one or two will complement a detox well.
Herbs with a diuretic effect include Horsetail, which is also known as shavegrass. This herb helps the body fight off fungal infections and promotes healing within many body tissues. Alfalfa is a diuretic which is also a laxative. It has added benefits during a detox, because it naturally sweetens the breath and sweat. Since the release of toxins during a detox can produce unpleasant smells, alfalfa will be a welcome addition. Violet leaf is another all-around beneficial herb; it is a diuretic, laxative, and has high amounts of vitamin C and beta carotene. Mullein leaf is a diuretic that is also quite beneficial to the respiratory system.
Herbs that are excellent as laxatives include psyllium seed, which also helps you to feel full, in case detoxing makes you hungry. Cascara sagrada bark is a strong laxative that acts quickly. For a gentler laxative, try licorice root; this can also instill a feeling of calm. Yucca root is a laxative that is especially effective at breaking down organic waste in the body. Slippery Elm bark is a laxative that is also an anti-inflammatory agent. This reduces a great number of aches and pains and can soothe an irritated bowel during a detox.
The herbs mentioned above are just a small number of the herbs available to help nourish your body and assist you during a detox. Many herbs can be made into caffeine-free teas, suitable for drinking as part of your detox. The benefits are numerous.
The anti-aging benefits of detoxing are well-documented. Over the centuries, many cultures have turned to minimal diets for short periods in order to purge toxins from the body. When the muscles and joints are no longer plagued by pollutants, greater strength and flexibility will result. You will be able to accomplish physical activities like you did when you were younger. With fewer aches and pains and higher energy levels, you will also feel younger.
There are beauty benefits to detoxing, as well. Your hair and nails will be stronger, shinier, and healthier when you replace chemicals with nutrients your body needs. You will find that your body has less bloat after a detox, as the body holds on to extra water to dilute toxins. Without this bloat, your face and stomach will appear slimmer. When your body can use water properly again, you will see your fine lines and wrinkles plump out and become harder to see. You will also have a more youthful glow to your face. Since herbs can greatly assist with getting rid of extra water, they will increase this effect.
Herbs that help you flush toxins can also help to reduce cellulite. Since cellulite is caused when toxins damage the layer of fat under the skin, flushing toxins can help your body repair that fat tissue, and reduce the visible dimpling on the thighs and buttocks that often afflict women as they age.
There are numerous benefits to be had from adding herbs to your detox regimen, and as long as they are used with caution, it is strongly recommended by many proponents that you do so.
