Detoxification is the process of intentionally clearing the body of toxins, poisons, and pollutants. While our body does a fantastic job of self-cleansing, it can quickly become bogged down by factors in our environment that simply cannot be avoided. When this happens, our body focuses on daily tasks rather than taking a deep dive by sweeping out the cobwebs. Fortunately, nature provides us with many extraordinary herbal remedies to support our whole system. Using fresh teas for detoxification is one of the simplest and most effective ways to help flush the body.
Why is Tea Good for Detoxing?
Along with herbs and spices, tea is an excellent choice for detoxing because it is readily available, easy to prepare, and is often pleasant to drink. In addition, it can be brewed extra strongly for more effect, and you can even mix teas for a combination health tonic. While herbal medicine calls upon thousands of herbs for various ailments or health concerns, there are five showstoppers when it comes to general detox.
5 Best Teas for Detox
Dandelion
One way of flushing toxins from the body is through urinating. Dandelion root is a diuretic, meaning it promotes more frequent urination, helping the body rid itself of toxins more rapidly. This also keeps the kidneys clean and free from debris or “sand” that can build up due to bacterial growth. In addition to helping the kidneys cleanse, dandelion is a powerful tonic for the liver. As the body’s major detox organ, liver function is vital to overall health and wellbeing.
Milk Thistle
While all teas for detoxification may act on the liver to some degree, none are as mighty as milk thistle. Despite its name, this dairy-free herb comes from a milk thistle plant, and has been used for over 2,000 years as a liver tonic. Studies have shown that taking milk thistle can have a massive impact on the liver by reducing inflammation and quickening the rate of cell repair.
The active ingredient in milk thistle, silymarin, fights free radicals, creating a natural detoxifying effect.
Ginger
Ginger root is found in many detox and wellness programs due to its ability to stimulate the body’s natural detoxification process. Used for thousands of years in Chinese medicine, ginger is considered an Ayurvedic herb that stimulates digestion and circulation while promoting sweating. Toxins are released through our sweat glands, and the digestive actions in ginger can help the body rid itself of waste build-up. It is also said to help fight bacterial and fungal infections and reduce inflammation.
Pu-erh
Pronounced “POO-air”, this tea just may help you poo a bit better. Another ancient herb in Chinese medicine, pu-erh acts as a bulking agent, allowing stool to move quickly through the digestive tract. It also relaxes the intestines, preventing old fecal matter from drying and sticking to the inside of the intestines, where it can become difficult to remove. In addition, pu-erh is rich in antioxidants, which help fight free radicals and ward off diseased cells throughout the body. To further support detoxification, pu-erh can help cleanse the blood of heavy metals that can lead to a host of illnesses and dis-ease.
Senna
Senna is an all-natural herbal laxative that works directly on the large intestine to rid excess waste. Stronger in effect in pu-erh, senna should be used with caution, as it may cause gas, cramping, and diarrhea for some people. However, senna works wonders for occasional constipation, and without proper elimination, the body cannot detoxify from waste. While it is a powerful tea for detoxification, it’s best to use senna for less than seven days and discontinue use if you experience any uncomfortable side effects.