Today I want to explore ten of the best detox herbs used to cleanse various organs and systems of the body. Most of these herbs have been part of the medicinal lexicon for hundreds, if not thousands, of years and are known across many cultures and borders to help with various ailments and health conditions. Due to their long history, popularity, and reported effectiveness, some of these herbs are also active ingredients in some of our most effective body cleansing products.
1. Organic Gum Acacia
Made from the sap of the acacia tree, this substance has been used for centuries to help relieve symptoms of diarrhea by adding bulk to bowel movements and improving electrolyte absorption. It is also one of several ingredients in Oxy-Powder®. As a hydrocolloid, it is used as an emulsifier to stabilize and facilitate synergy between two ingredients which would not normally mix well together.
2. Dandelion
For centuries, parts of the entire dandelion plant have been used to help with a wide range of maladies. It has laxative and diuretic qualities, and its famous derivative, dandelion tea, has been used to help with rheumatoid arthritis. Dandelion root is used in our liver-cleansing product, Livatrex® because it stimulates bile production, and bile helps transport toxins out of the body. Dandelion is also believed by some to help the body’s immune system.
3. Organic Milk Thistle
This herb has been used to help the gallbladder and liver for over 2,000 years. It has been known to help produce bile, which in turn improves digestive function. Milk thistle is an active ingredient in Livatrex®, which is our most popular liver and gallbladder cleansing product.
4. Black Walnut
Europeans were first introduced to this herb in the 1600’s. Three active agents in black walnut, juglone, tannins, and iodine, make it particularly effective in natural health and wellness practices. Juglone is the black walnut’s natural defense mechanism, which helps fight against harmful organisms like bacteria and fungus. Tannins also help deter bacterial growth and are resistant to inflammation. Iodine, an essential mineral to all life forms, helps reduce the lifespan of harmful bacteria.
5. Wormwood
The subject of much folklore, wormwood’s potent reputation as a component of absinthe lead to it being banned in the United States for many years. Despite the momentary hiccup, wormwood is back and has been used since Egyptian times to fight harmful organisms such as pinworms and roundworms. It has also historically been used to aid with digestion.
