Internal Cleansing for Optimum Health

Today more than ever, making a commitment to regular internal cleansing is essential to enjoying optimum health in an increasingly toxic world, and choosing the right cleansing formula is the first step toward achieving that goal.

Detoxification is not a new concept. History shows us that people from many ancient cultures cleansed by fasting or using a blend of herbs to help eliminate toxins from the colon. Whether they realized it or not, toxins that are stored in the body can eventually overwhelm the liver, resulting in toxic overload or inflammation. This can in turn lead to a chronic disease - a problem currently afflicting more than 90 million people in this country. Even with improvements to daily diet and decreased exposure to environmental toxins, those toxins that are already being stored in the body will remain there until they are removed, which explains why frequent cleansing plays a vital role in maintaining optimum health.

A total-body cleansing supplement typically combines a variety of nutrients designed to support the body's natural cleansing physiology. While multivitamins and other dietary supplements provide beneficial nutrients, total-body cleansing products specifically support the body's detoxification process.

Many natural health practitioners recommend a total-body cleanse at the beginning of each new season. The most effective products typically contain an organ detoxification formula as well as a natural colon cleanse.

Herbs often used to support the liver include milk thistle, artichoke, dandelion and turmeric, while corn silk may be included to promote healthy kidney function. Chlorella, hawthorn, larch gum and ashwagandha (also known as Indian ginseng) support the blood and lymph, and mullein and red clover are often included to help expel toxins (trapped in mucus) from the lungs. Red clover and burdock root support the cleansing of the skin.

To soften the stool and ease elimination, magnesium hydroxide may prove an effective part of the colon cleanse formula. Cape aloe and rhubarb may also be included to provide gentle laxative support and help stimulate two to three healthy bowel movements a day - the number recommended by many natural health experts. Avoid products that use psyllium husks, as this form of soluble fiber is not easily digested by the body and may cause gas, bloating, and other digestive issues. Harsh herbs such as senna and cascara sagrada should also be avoided, as they may cause cramping and diarrhea.

While a healthy diet and lifestyle habits are no doubt an important part of staying healthy in an increasingly toxic world, regular cleansing is a simple, effective way to benefit your whole body.

SOURCE: Detoxification, Holistic Medicine Web Page