Superfood & Herbal Detox Benefits

Alfalfa alkalizes and detoxifies the body, especially the liver. Extremely nutrient dense, Alfalfa can replenish the stores of liver supportive vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin K which is stored in the liver and fatty tissues. This important, fat soluble vitamin is found in exceptionally high amounts in Alfalfa and goes straight to your liver where it helps to maintain healthy blood clotting. Alfalfa makes an appearance in almost all liver cleansing tonic recipes, and with good reason too.

Aloe Vera contains powerful antioxidants, which belong to a large family of substances known as polyphenols. Not only this, it actually amplifies the antioxidant effects of vitamins such as C and E, making them work better. This potentiating effect is thought to be due its capability to enhance blood quality – allowing it to more effectively transport oxygen and nutrients to the cells of the body. 

Aloe Vera cleanses toxic matter from the stomach, kidneys, spleen, bladder, liver and is an effective colon cleanser.

Extremely alkalising and rich in essential vitamins and minerals, Barlygrass is also an abundant source of chlorophyll - a compound that converts sunlight into energy within the plant. When chlorophyll is consumed it releases a flow of oxygen into the bloodstream, detoxing the body of harmful toxins and impurities, it has the ability to bind to and flush out toxic chemicals and heavy metals. 

Barleygrass offers protection from radiation and cellular damage, regenerating damaged cells and tissues. It is such a powerful cleanser that it is recommended to start slowly to avoid detox symptoms such as headaches, rashes and nausea. This is normal and is generally triggered by the release of toxins from the cells and tissue, however should these symptoms persist it is advised you contact your health care professional. 

Parasites can infect the intestinal tract and cause a variety of symptoms ranging from; fatigue, constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, heartburn, chills, stomach pain or loss of appetite. Black Walnut Hulls are an extremely effective way to detox and cleanse parasites from the system, containing powerful compounds that help to eliminate microbes from the intestinal system. The high tannin and juglone content is thought to oxygenate the blood which can kill parasites and work as a laxative to expel parasites as part of its cleansing of the body.These compounds all play a vital part in the killing of parasites, even in adult parasite stages.

Black Walnut Hulls can also be used to balance sugar levels, which helps the body burn up excessive toxins and fatty materials.

Burdock Root is an excellent cleansing herb, working by increasing the effectiveness of all of the body's elimination systems. High in powerful antioxidants, including quercetin, luteolin, and phenolic acids, this root supports the liver - the body's main detox organ. The antioxidants help to protect the liver from free radical damage, whilst the compounds that give Burdock its bitter taste help stimulate bile production, allowing the liver to flush away toxins with more speed and ease.

Also working on another important detox organ, the kidneys, Burdock Root is naturally diuretic and stimulates the kidneys to allow urine to be passed more frequently and in greater quantities. By increasing the rate of urination, Burdock Root can help to remove waste from the blood and body, helping the kidneys to filter the blood more effectively. By addressing toxins through a variety of pathways, Burdock Root is an important herb to include in any detox and cleanse protocol.

This small but mighty seed helps to clear uric acid from the blood and joints - high levels of uric acid can cause joint pain and inflammatory conditions such as gout. Celery’s ability to improve blood flow means that it cleanses the joints and cartilage by increasing the level of fluid moving through them. Also powerfully diuretic, Celery Seeds enable the renal system to excrete uric acid more effectively as well as being extremely alkalising, this helps the body to get rid of too much water by increasing urine output. Increasing the frequency and quantity of urine aids in the removal of excess fats, salts, bile, uric acid and urea.

Used for 1000's of years in traditional medicine, the Chaga Mushroom is a potent detoxifier and powerful antioxidant. With exceptional cleansing properties, it is used in TCM to detox the liver, spleen, lungs, cleanse the bowel and to prevent the formation of kidney stones.

With an antioxidant power almost unmatched, Chaga mushrooms are especially high in a compound called super-oxide dismutase (SOD), this is an enzyme which reduces the damage done to cells by “super-oxide”, the most common free radical in the body. Studies have shown that SOD acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, with researchers now investigating the potential of it as an anti-aging treatment as it is known that, as we age, SOD levels drop whilst free radicals increase. Super-oxide dismutase also aids the body in using zinc, copper and manganese. Chaga provides SOD in a highly bioavailable form which we can utilise either topically or internally.

One of the most unique benefits of Chlorella is its ability to detox environmental toxins safely from the body. The mucopolysaccharides that make up the cell wall of Chlorella bind with toxins such as heavy metals (including mercury), pesticides and PCBs (polychlorobiphenyls) and carry them safely out of the body in a process called "chelation". In addition to this, Chlorella does not bind to the minerals your body needs for optimal function, so it doesn't bind to minerals such as magnesium, selenium and zinc. 

Chlorella boasts extremely high amounts of chlorophyll - the substance used by plants to convert sunshine into energy. Chlorophyll floods the blood with oxygen, detoxing harmful toxins and impurities whilst protecting the cells from oxidative stress. 

It is such a powerful cleanser that it is recommended to start slowly to avoid detox symptoms such as headaches, rashes and nausea. This is normal and is generally triggered by the release of toxins from the cells and tissue, however should these symptoms persist it is advised you contact your health care professional. 

A Coconut Oil detox is especially good to get rid of yeast infections and candida overgrowth. The medium chain fatty acids (MCFA's) in Coconut Oil kill disease causing bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. It is chemically very stable and functions as an antioxidant protecting against destructive free radicals and neutralising the effects of many harmful toxins. 

The MCFA's in Coconut Oil are used by the body as a source of fuel to stimulate metabolism - as metabolism increases so does the body's natural mechanisms of detoxification, repair and growth. 

Unfortunately in our increasingly polluted world, the human body now has to deal with toxins that include “heavy metals” such as; lead, aluminium and mercury, which if left unchecked can create havoc in the body.

Coriander has been found to change the electric charge of intracellular deposits of heavy metals to a neutral state. This relaxes the tight bond of the metals to bodily tissue, allowing them to be safely flushed from the body in a process known as “chelation”. Studies have shown that levels of mercury, lead, and aluminium in the urine increase significantly after consuming large amounts of Coriander. This process can be further enhanced by using Chlorella – a micro algae that has the ability to absorb heavy metals and carry them safely from the body.

The Dandelion herb is especially indicated in detoxification of the liver, restoring hydration along with electrolyte balance. Dandelion root contains a bitter compound, "taraxacerin" that increases the level of bile secreted by the gallbladder, helping the liver to detoxify more efficiently. It is also diuretic, aiding the liver and kidneys to flush away excess water and waste, supporting the body as it eliminates harmful toxins. 

Dandelion leaf has been found to promote healthy lipid profiles, suppressing fat accumulation in the liver and reducing insulin resistance. This leaf also contains antioxidants that have a specific effect against liver toxicity. 

Echinacea is a wonderfully supportive herb to assist the body both during and after a detox. When detoxifying it is possible to feel worse before we feel better as the body strives to eliminate harmful toxins. Echinacea's ability to stimulate and modulate immune response can reduce sore throats and raised lymph glands (common detox symptoms). It also increases the body's overall ability to dispose of bacteria, infected and damaged cells, toxins and other harmful chemicals. 

Fennel seed is known to be an excellent digestive. It is good for colic in babies, and stomach cramps of all ages. It normalises appetite so therefore can support weight loss. It can treat flatulence, aids recovery from gout and is a cleanser of the liver, helpful for gentle detoxifying. It increases the flow of urine, is a natural diuretic and kidney tonic.

For women, Fennel seed is helpful when breastfeeding, as it stimulates milk production. It is also good for promoting menstruation, and relieving discomfort of menopause.

A staple ingredient in many detox and cleanse protocols, Ginger works its magic by stimulating digestion, circulation and perspiration. Containing over 25 antioxidant compounds, this zingy spice scavenges free radicals whilst stimulating antioxidant pathways. 

Ginger combines really well with many other herbs and spices and is a wonderfully supportive and warming root, helping the body in its efforts to detox. 

With an oxygen radical antioxidant capacity (ORAC) score of 3,290, Goji Berries are in the premier league of detoxifying superfruits. Not only that, they are packed with antioxidant vitamins and minerals – coupled with phytonutrients that have a strong antioxidant capacity - the Goji Berry is a useful weapon in your arsenal if you are embarking on a detox and cleanse.

Goji Berries can also increase levels of the antioxidant zeaxanthin which is has a powerful effect on the eyes, protecting them from "hypopigmentation" and accumulation of oxidative stress from compounds that can damage the macular. Research shows that these berries can further benefit eye health by protecting the retina from "ganglion" cells, acting as a natural treatment for glaucoma. 

Golden Seal is anti-microbial, anti-biotic, anti-inflammatory and astringent. So it is known to help fight bacterial infections, and fungal disorders. It is known as a remedy for eczema, ringworm, pruritis, earache and conjunctivitis. It may be used as a mouthwash for gum disease and mouth ulcers, as a douche for vaginal problems, such as thrush, and as eardrops for middle-ear inflammation and congestion.

Gotu Kola is an exceptional brain detoxifier, with symptoms of toxic overload in the brain manifesting as brain fog, memory loss and lack of concentration to name but a few. This powerful herb destroys toxic accumulations in the brain, including residues of heavy metals, pharmaceutical and recreational drugs, improving the blood flow, which results in a clearer mind and elevated mood.

Used for centuries in traditional medicine as a liver detoxifier, Gotu Kola helps to detoxify the rest of the body by drawing out fluid from tissues, promoting urination and helping to eliminate excess fluid from the body. 

This zesty refreshing botanical has many uses. Grapefruit is traditionally used for cleansing and tonifying the bodies systems. This uplifting top note citrus aroma is also known for banishing dark moods and lifting the spirits.

Grapefruit essential oil is cold pressed however some essential oil is extracted from the pulp, this yields an inferior oil, so check extraction method of product.

Guarana is powerfully antioxidant – this is thought to be due to the phytochemicals; procyanidin, catechin and tannin. It is especially good to use this herb if your detox is part of a weight loss regime as when we lose weight, our fat cells can oxidise as they are broken down before leaving the body. This will cause “oxidative stress” producing free radicals making it important to eat a diet rich in antioxidants.

Hibiscus Flowers are known to have a mild laxative action decreasing spasms in the intestines. This has a mild detoxifying effect which also helps combat foreign bacteria while also lowering blood pressure.

This pretty flower is also packed with calyces - the sepals of the flower - which are high in antioxidants. The Hibiscus Flower has been used for centuries in Africa where its medicinal value is treasured. 

A classic flavour known all over the world, Liquorice is used in many preparations, makes delicious tea or a tea ingredient or one can simply chew their twig like roots for a yummy, naturally occuring confection.

Liquorice is also traditionally used as an adrenal support, to help combat exhaustion. It's smooth warming and relaxing - excellent when overcoming the after effects of exciting or stressful times or the use of stimulants.

A well known herb widely used in skin creams, teas, poultices and tinctures accross Europe. It's use as a natural anti-biotic can be traced back through the centuries.

It can still be found growing in Glastonbury Abbey today even though the monks who once cultivated it have been absent for hundreds of years.

Famous for its detoxifying and healing effect on the liver, Milk Thistle contains the powerfully antioxidant flavonoid complex "silymarin" which helps to boost glutathione and superoxide dismutase (SOD) – two of the body’s master antioxidants. It helps to rebuild liver cells whilst removing toxins from the body that are processed through the liver. As our primary detox organ, the liver actually cleans the blood each day, actively supporting almost every system within the body. 

Milk Thistle directly scavenges free radicals, chelates free iron and copper and prevents free radical formation by improving the integrity of mitochondria (power generators of the cells). This allows cells to work more efficiently to eliminate toxins and other harmful substances which supports the body's efforts to detox and cleanse. 

Myrrh has a postive effect on the whole body and is especially helpful during a detox as it increases perspiration, allowing toxins to be released through the pores of the skin. It is a potent antibacterial, used often in natural mouthwashes to neutralise bacteria in the mouth and to strengthen gums. 

Also powerfully anti-fungal, Myrrh essential oil or tincture is extremely effective against Candida albicans as well as 60 other fungal strains. Research shows that an overgrowth of fungus in the body can be a prelude to many diseases. 

You can also use Myrrh essential oil as part of a detox bath and Myrrh incense to cleanse the energy in your home. 

Nettles are potent detoxifiers, well known to have properties that cleanse the blood and flush out harmful toxins. This bitter, deep green plant is also hugely supportive to the liver - the body's primary organ of detoxification.

As a diuretic, Nettle can ensure any toxins that have been neutralised in the body are eliminated quickly. It also stimulates the lymphatic system, helping to get rid of excess toxins from the kidneys too. 

A close relation to Wheatgrass and Barleygrass, Oat Grass joins these grasses in the premier league of detox superfoods that provide a powerful nutritional punch and the full spectrum of amino acids. It is an abundant source of chlorophyll - a compound that converts sunlight into energy within the plant. When chlorophyll is consumed it releases a flow of oxygen into the bloodstream, detoxing the body of harmful toxins and impurities, it has the ability to bind to and flush out toxic chemicals and heavy metals. 

Rich in antioxidants, Oat Grass contains a recently discovered member of the flavonoid family, tricin. Tricin is a prolific free radical scavenger, helping to slow down the aging process and lessening the effects of oxidative stress. It is essential to support the body with antioxidants before, during and after a detox and cleanse as this will speed up the removal of released toxins and other harmful substances. 

Pau D'Arco stimulates the digestive system to keep food moving through the body – especially the colon, which can be likened to the sewage tank of the body – needing to be cleaned, emptied and maintained to function properly. This allows any unhealthy debris, excess fats and toxins to be eliminated regularly, keeping the colon clean and healthy, essential in the body's efforts to detox and cleanse.

This potent South American herb contains some powerful antioxidant compounds including; quercetin, flavonoids and carnosol. Quercetin in particular is a prolific free radical scavenger, helping to slow down the aging process and lessening the effects of oxidative stress. It is essential to support the body with antioxidants before, during and after a detox and cleanse as this will speed up the removal of released toxins and other harmful substances. 

Psyllium Husks provide valuable support when embarking on a detox programme. These fibrous husks act as natural laxative, removing waste build up in the intestines that occurs during digestion. It is important to drink lots of pure water when using Psyllium as part of a cleanse, since it absorbs water and expands to literally "scrub down" the walls of the intestines. 

Psyllium also allows your colon to cleanse itself more easily by enhancing and promoting bowel activity. 

Slippery Elm is the perfect complement to a total body cleanse, with its ability to soothe the stomach and intestines. It works with the body to gently draw out impurities and toxins whilst assisting with the healing of all body parts.

As a prebiotic, Slippery Elm will also replace the flora that feeds the good flora in the gut - much of this can be lost during an intense detox, making this herb perfect to support the body during this process. 

Spirulina is a potent detoxifier and an excellent chelating agent to remove toxins and radioactive substances from the body. This blue green algae contains the phytochemical "phycocyanin", a powerful antioxidant which has been shown to increase the expression of essential enzymes and biochemicals related to the balanced function of the liver and the kidneys. When the liver and kidneys are working smoothly, everything improves in the body. 

It is also rich in chlorophyll, the substance used by plants to convert sunlight into energy. Chlorophyll cleanses the liver, kidneys and blood of toxins and metabolic impurities including excess uric acid.

Turmeric is an excellent liver detoxifier, with its active ingredient "curcumin" stimulating the flow of bile from the gallbladder allowing the liver to flush out harmful toxins. Bile also rejuvenates the liver cells that breakdown harmful compounds. The liver is the body's primary detox organ and must be kept in optimum condition for a detox and cleanse to work properly. 

Turmeric also contain powerful antioxidants which neutralise damaging free radicals and it increases the activity of the body's own antioxidant enzymes - directly blocking, then stimulating the body's own antioxidant mechanisms against free radicals. Giving your body antioxidant support is crucial before, during and after the detox process. 

Also known as liquid sunshine, Wheatgrass heals, cleanses, alkalises and builds the blood. It is bursting with life giving chlorophyll, the substance used by plants to convert sunlight into energy - this increases the amount of oxygen in the blood which in turn revitalises tissues and detoxes the body from harmful toxins and impurities. 

Wheatgrass offers protection from radiation and cellular damage, regenerating damaged cells and tissues. It is such a powerful cleanser that it is recommended to start slowly to avoid detox symptoms such as headaches, rashes and nausea. This is normal and is generally triggered by the release of toxins from the cells and tissue, however should these symptoms persist it is advised you contact your health care professional.