To some, the word "detoxification" means a strict diet partnered with frequent bathroom trips and all-around discomfort, but are we giving enough credit to the softer, more natural ways to promote detox? Our bodies are doing it all the time on its own. Our liver is constantly processing, kidneys constantly filtering, and even our skin releases toxins through our pores. There are ways to make these natural processes more efficient so that we don’t always have to resort to more extreme ways of detoxification. When our organs and bodily systems are healthy and functioning at optimal levels, our bodies will naturally maintain a more balanced environment. This means clearer skin, a sharper mind, more energy and stamina, better sleep, lowered stress levels, and just an overall feeling of awesomeness.
Liver and Kidneys
The most well-known organs of elimination are our liver and our kidneys. There are many ways we can support them. The easiest and most accessible approach is to increase our water intake, and reduce our consumption of alcohol, sugary drinks, and caffeine. Sugar has the potential to be just as damaging as alcohol and wreaks havoc on every organ and bodily system. To take it a step further, we can utilize supplements and herbs to help optimize the function of these two organs; for example, switching out your coffee for Dandelion Root tea. Dandelion naturally supports detoxification, and roasted Dandelion has a dark color and earthy flavor like coffee. Simply add milk or cream to satisfy your coffee craving.
In addition to Dandelion Root, there are many other plants that can rejuvenate and optimize your liver and kidneys. Many of these medicinal herbs can be found in WishGardens’ detox promoting formulas such as Kidney Strength Daily Support, Liver Strength, and Deep Cleanse Reset & Flourish. All three of these formulas are "tonics," which means you can take them for long periods of time, and they actually benefit us more with time. Liver Strength and Kidney Strength are great when you want to target one organ specifically. Deep Cleanse Reset & Flourish is an amazing 3 in 1 hitter, supporting the liver, the kidneys, and the lymphatic system.
Skin and Digestion
Our digestive system and our skin health are closely related. We absorb our nutrients and eliminate waste and toxins through our digestive tract. When our digestive tract isn’t working optimally, our skin has to pick up the slack in detoxifying the body. We can’t forget that our skin is an organ, and if we aren’t absorbing our nutrients properly, it’s functioning is impacted. This can lead to blemishes, overly dry or oily skin, and dull or irritated skin. Also, clogged and congested pores cannot properly secrete toxins through sweat. We want our digestive tract and our skin to be clean channels for all that goes in, and all that comes out!
Avoiding foods that are overly processed, fried, sugary, or cooked in oils high in Omega 6's will give your belly a break, and allow your skin to shine! Adding in green juices or smoothies will provide a punch of nutrients and fibers to promote detoxification and digestive health. Taking our Badass Bitters Digestive Aid before consuming meals will promote the production of enzymes and aid the entire digestion process and absorption of nutrients. The bitter herbs will also support our liver function - they are a 2 in 1 digestion and detoxification supporter! If your skin needs a little extra love, the Clear Complexion formula can give you the boost you need with liver supporting herbs like Burdock Root and Dandelion, all while supporting dewy and soft skin with soothing Calendula and hormone-balancing Red Clover.
Lymphatic System
Our lymphatic system is a vital team player in the detoxification process, yet it’s not as commonly talked about. Our lymphatic system is a whole network of vessels in which lymph nodes drain from the tissues into the blood. There are about 600 lymph nodes in the human body, which can put into perspective how imperative the health and the movement of this system really is! There are a few simple ways to optimize this system: breath work, physical activity, drinking more clean water, and my favorite... herbs!
I bet most have never thought of breathing to aid in detoxification, but there is scientific proof and a ripple of many other benefits that come with it. Our body is filled with lymph fluid but no organ to pump or circulate it. Deeply breathing creates a pumping action that promotes the lymphatic system to transport toxins into our blood stream where they are then detoxified by the liver. Pretty cool huh? And, intentional deep breathing supports our nervous system and mental health as well. The same is to be said with exercise, which is another great way to promote the pumping action, to sweat out toxins, and promote mental health. Don’t forget to re-hydrate with purified water that will promote the flushing of toxins and the cleansing of this system.
For additional support, there are many plant allies that have an affinity for the Lymphatic system. Lymph Mover has a balanced blend of herbs that help to invigorate the lymphatic system for optimal draining and cleansing.
Detoxification doesn’t have to be daunting, and you don’t have to spend the weekend in your bathroom to become a more clarified you. Gift your body a little extra love, and let it naturally do what its designed to do!
Rebecca Younger aspires to spark an interest in herbs within her community through education and incorporating herbs into everyday life in exciting and innovative ways. She studied Herbal Medicine at Herbalism Roots in Denver. She is a customer journey representative at WishGarden Herbs.
For educational purposes only. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, or sell any product.