Q: I’m really confused about the idea of detoxifying. Don’t our bodies detoxify naturally every day? Do I need to do anything more?
A: You’re right—our bodies have a wonderfully natural detoxification process that happens each day. The cells, liver, kidneys and colon play a big role in this important process.
My concern is that our environment has changed a lot within a short period of time. In the last 60 years, 70,000 new chemicals have been entered into our environment and 300 synthetic chemicals have been found in our bodies. We may need to give ourselves some added support to deal with these external toxins.
Since your whole body detoxifies each day, all you need to do is gently support all your detoxification organs.
My favorite way to support this process is with a few very effective herbs. One is watercress, which contains important phytochemicals like indoles and sulfurs that support our liver detox process, allowing for a proper elimination of toxins.
A second is slippery elm. It’s a wonderful gelatinous fiber that has traditionally been used for digestive issues. Slippery elm also binds with toxins in the gut. Another, blessed thistle, is a surprisingly lovely support for gentle whole body detoxification. Its bitter properties help to stimulate the release of bile and other digestive juices.
These days, it’s important to support your body’s natural detoxification process, and you can do so in this very gentle, supportive way.
