Indigestion, bad breath, cough or fatigue?

Few people can say that they eat properly all the time and maintain a perfect lifestyle. Even our small excesses will cause an accumulation of toxins in our system, opening the door to disease.

A natural detoxification or cleansing program can stimulate the organs responsible for promoting the elimination of toxins that accumulate over months and years. Heading the list of these eliminatory organs are the liver, intestine and kidneys. A complete cleansing program should therefore comprise three steps aimed at stimulating each of these organs.

1st step: Liver Cleanse

The liver is our internal filtration system; it neutralizes harmful substances circulating in the body. Unfortunately many of us overburden the liver unnecessarily as a result of inadequate diet and harmful lifestyle habits. Eventually the liver may send out alarm signals: indigestion, gas, bloating, constipation, bad breath, headaches after meals, etc.

It is a good idea to cleanse liver cells seasonally. Here are some of the most effective herbs for toning and thoroughly cleansing the liver:

• Black radish: helps digestion by improving the secretion of bile.
• Boldo: protects liver cells; helps the liver to cleanse the system.
• Artichoke: stimulates secretion of bile in order to ensure proper digestion of fats in food.
• Dandelion: its inulin content relieves the sensation of bloating.

2nd step: Complete colon cleanse

Once the digestive process has concluded,food waste remains in the large intestine, which is responsible for its removal. Unfortunately, many people suffer intestinal irregularity; waste then stagnates in the intestine, resulting in putrefaction and intoxication.

For many years now, health professionals have recognized the effectiveness of psyllium fibre in facilitating the movement of waste through the intestine. This non-irritating fibre can relieve constipation and thoroughly cleanse the intestine. Furthermore, psyllium furnishes a daily dose of fibre that few foods can provide. In addition to psyllium, there are also other herbs that are very beneficial for the intestine:

Psyllium: its rich fibre content relieves constipation without irritating the intestine. Licorice: its anti-inflammatory properties soothe irritated gastrointestinal mucous membranes. Hibiscus: Hibiscus acts as a mild laxative to ensure proper elimination. Slippery elm: excellent for calming digestive tract irritation, in particular the intestine (e.g. colitis).

3rd Step: Assure proper renal function

The kidneys are vital eliminatory organs: they allow for the removal of many toxins in the body that would otherwise be very harmful to health.

A complete cleansing program should ideally promote thorough elimination by the kidneys. Certain herbs are particularly effective in this respect. They are often available in the form of herbal teas, offering a good alternative to coffee after meals.

Here are some specific herbs with beneficial effects for the kidneys:

• Bearberry: Bearberry is recognized for its effective action against urinary tract infections.
• Couch grass: effective diuretic; helps the kidneys to evacuate accumulated toxins.
• Cherry stems: their diuretic qualities promote proper kidney function.
• Juniper: its diuretic action helps kidneys to eliminate toxins.

Who could benefit from a Seasonal Cleansing Program?

You are probably wondering if you are a good candidate for a seasonal cleanse. Keep in mind that even someone in perfect health can benefit from a cleansing program, because it also helps to prevent the development of various illnesses. If you suffer from most of the following symptoms, however, a seasonal liver-intestine-kidney cleanse is strongly suggested.

Symptoms:

• Indigestions
• Bloating
• Digestive problems
• Fatigue
• Flatulence
• Heartburn
• Constipation
• Lack of vitality and energy
• Nasal drip
• Infections,cold,etc.
• Cough
• Skin eruptions
• Bad breath

If you checked “Yes” for most of the symptoms, it would be a good idea to consider a seasonal cleanse to promote toxin removal by the liver, intestine and kidneys. This will give you the tools to help your body’s functioning and avoid the distressing cycle of sickness and disease.