Detoxification
The need to clear out and clean up all the systems of the body becomes increasingly pressing in this modern age. No matter how careful we are in choosing organic food and mineral waters, pollutants are ubiquitous and pervade every aspect of our lives.
The most obvious offenders are polluted water systems, contaminated animal feeds, and the pesticides and herbicides used on crops. But the list of possible contaminators is endless: metal poison, organic solvents, aromatic hydrocarbons from the vehicle exhaust fumes, never mind tobacco smoke, cleaning products, the contraceptive pill, asbestos, and radioactive pollution.
THE ORTHODOX APPROACH
Although conventional medicine is aware of the problems inherent in modern Western life, there is little that can be done to treat its effects. It is more likely that preventative advice will be given, perhaps on how to improve your diet and lifestyle; alternatively you may be referred to a nutritionist.
THE HALE APPROACH
Detoxification of the system is best done by complementary approaches unless the condition is life-threatening. For example, poisoning by drugs should be approached via a hospital, although after the dangerous initial toxic levels are reduced complementary treatments can be employed. Generalized detoxification from unhealthy habits and lifestyle is not embraced by orthodox medicine.
Looking back over the centuries, we find that the principle of detoxification was recommended and practiced by most of the world’s religions or traditional medical systems to clear the mind and cleanse the body. These ancient principles, which were important to a person’s health thousands of years ago, have a particular relevance in today’s polluted world. Many symptoms can be alleviated by detoxification.
Moreover, a detox program can help prevent a recurrence of ill health, as well as supporting other complementary therapies such as homeopathy or osteopathy. Many people’s systems are so toxic that treatments take longer to work, so a detox program can help other therapies to produce faster results.
There are many different methods of detoxification but, with the exception of Buteyko, all those described below will consider and if necessary adjust your nutrition in order to facilitate the detoxification process.
Many detox treatments have a very powerful effect on the body, so it is generally better not to combine too many. Colonic irrigation, lymphatic drainage and the detox treatments can safely be used together. Otherwise, check with your practitioner before undertaking more than one detoxification treatment.
Many detox programs will help clear the mind and calm the emotions, but it is important to be aware that some patients may need further support from psychology or hypnosis in dealing with any mental or emotional problems.
COLONIC HYDROTHERAPY/LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE
“All the poisons entering our bloodstream cause havoc in our lymphatic system and colon and damage our health”, explains one practitioner of colonic hydrotherapy, lymphatic drainage, and nutrition. “If we look after our body with a detox – think of it as a complete spring cleaning – the whole metabolism will be able to cope much better with the daily demands of stress and toxic substances”.
Colonic hydrotherapy entails the introduction of a gentle infusion of warm, filtered water into the colon to remove the encrusted faecal matter on the colon wall. This allows vital nutrients to be absorbed more easily and makes you feel rejuvenated and healthier. The therapist stresses the importance of starting gently if you have never before done a detox program. You may be tired or have a headache after the first session; alternatively you may feel euphoric and light-headed.
Lymphatic drainage is an all-over body manipulation and massage of the lymph system that ensures the free flow of lymph fluid and the removal of any blockages. Lymph circulation plays a vital role in the immune system, the elimination of waste and the transportation of nutrients to the cells.
These therapies would normally be complemented by dietary recommendations and exercise advice. Supplements such as anti-oxidant and psyllium husk, alfa detox, and the herbal drink would also be endorsed. “The use of organic herbs further intensifies the process of detoxification”, explains the therapist. “To complete the session, an implant of friendly bacteria is always given to rebalance the bowel flora”.
Colonic therapy is not suitable for everyone. More about colonic...
AYURVEDA
Panchakarma is the Ayurvedic form of detoxification and has been practiced in India throughout the ages. It is a way of cleansing and servicing the body which can be used not only to treat certain conditions but also to prevent illness.
The treatment involves four activities: Nirvha vasthi (herbal enemas); vireka (herbal inhalation); and anwasana vasthi (herbal oil enemas). Prior to starting the panchakarma treatment, it may be necessary to undergo snebana karma (the application of herbal oil either externally, orally, or rectally) or swedana karma (herbal diaphoretic therapy or steam bath). Depending on the amount of toxins in the body, the treatment could be weekly or once every three months, with the change of seasons. More about ayurveda...
DETOX PROGRAM
Many of us suffer from an overuse of the liver and the ingestion of toxins. For those who fall into this category, the Hale Clinic detox program, which is geared towards supporting the liver and clearing the toxins from the system, is an appropriate solution. The London clinic’s complementary medicine consultant explains, “This is just an example of a program, although it is one that can be used by most people with some impunity”.
It comprises a three-day detox diet followed by a seven-day semi-fast diet, as follows:
Three-Day Detox Diet
Day 1: Remember to drink approximately 2Q (2l) of water in the course of the day, the first 1pt (½l) of which should be before breakfast.
Breakfast: 2lb (900g) grapes (any type), including skins.
Mid-morning: ginger tea, made from two thin slices of fresh root ginger with hot (but not boiling) water.
Lunch: 2 medium-sized applies or pears.
Mid-Afternoon: 1lb (450g) grapes.
Supper (at least two hours before bed): 8oz (225g) bran cereal moistened with any fruit juice except orange or apple.
Day 2: Remember to drink 2Q (2l) water in the course of the day, the first 1pt (½l) of which should be before breakfast.
3lb (135kg) potatoes. These can be divided into any weight for any meal and prepared in any way but they must contain the skins and only pepper may be added.
Day 3: 2Q (2l) water as before.
Breakfast: one whole grapefruit.
Mid-Morning: ginger tea.
Lunch: melon – any quantity.
Mid-Afternoon: a handful of pumpkin or sunflower seeds (two handfuls if you are hungry).
Supper: a salad of any vegetable content with a fresh lemon juice or balsamic vinegar dressing only.
(Remember that tomatoes are a fruit and should not be included).
Seven Day Semi-Fast Diet
Day 1: Drink freshly squeezed or pressed fruit and/or vegetable juice at approximately four-hourly intervals. Quench your thirst with mineral water or herb tea, and drink at least 2Q (2l) of fluid. Some suggested juices are apple, orange, grape, pineapple, grapefruit, blackcurrant, mango, cranberry, carrot, beetroot, and celery.
Day 2: as for day 1 but add up to 450g (1lb) grapes and three bananas.
Day 3: as for day 2 but add raw and lightly cooked vegetables and any other fruit.
Day 4: as for day 3 but add whole-grain cereals, nuts and seeds.
Day 5: as for day 4 but add fish
Day 6: as for day 5 but add offal, poultry or game.
Day 7: return to your normal diet as discussed with a nutritionist.
The fast will help to flush the liver but it can be aided by taking one of the following homeopathic remedies: Chelidonium, Berberis, or Lycopodium. Ayurvedic herbs may also be useful. “Mile thistle is popular at the moment. Or there is another compound called LIVE-52”, says the practitioner who devised this diet. If people are particularly toxic (if they have been on a binge or have been toxic for a prolonged period of time), he would consider using an intravenous technique. High-dose anti-oxidants, B-complex vitamins and glucuronic acid are very important to help the liver to function well, and, if the liver is working too fast, so producing more cholesterol, an increased dosage of lecithin (1200-1800mg per day in divided doses) is recommended.
On a cautionary note, the practitioner warns, “Using a detox program is not suitable alternative to better living”. He also suggests that if you are under any other medical treatment, you should first consult with your physician before starting a detox program. It is not suitable for those suffering from diabetes, hypoglycaemia, or other serious conditions such as cancer, although there are specific detoxification diets that may be prescribed for cancer patients.
MARMA MASSAGE
According to traditional Ayurvedic medicine, the digestive tract, liver, kidneys, and muscle tissues are major areas where toxins are deposited. Marma deep-tissue massage with special oil together with individual diet advice and herbal teas will help the elimination of toxins and improve the function of the digestive tract. One Marma therapist suggests that a single session (45 minutes including consultation and treatment) may be enough for those with low toxicity levels, but six sessions may be necessary if you have a high level of toxins in your system. More about marma massage...
SELF-CARE
Nutrition
Bad eating habits, high alcohol intake and high fat levels in the liver are all components of a toxic body which can be helped by good nutritional advice. A fasting diet will be tailored to an individual’s particular requirements. Do not be surprised if you feel terrible on about the third day of a fast. This is a recognized part of the detoxifying process. When fasting, it is recommended that you take Vitamins E and C, zinc, and selenium to help eliminate free radical damage, and liver extract, dandelion tea, artichoke juice, or milk thistle to improve the action of the liver.
Aromatherapy
Using lymphatic drainage massage and the diuretic/detoxification capacity of certain essential oils such as juniper, rosemary, lemon, and patchouli can enhance any dietary detoxification program.
SUPPORTIVE TREATMENTS
Maya Abdominal Massage
A non-invasive massage technique that specialises in treating gynaecological and digestive conditions. It improves organ function by relieving congestion, enhancing blood supply; increasing lymphatic drainage and aiding nerve supply to the pelvic and reproductive organs. Further Details
Remedial Yoga
In order to eliminate toxins effectively, the body must have efficient circulation systems. Yoga can be highly beneficial in improving these systems. Good breathing and the effect of pressure and relaxing the muscles during the asanas (postures) can improve circulation of the blood and the immune system. Moreover, the endocrine system which secretes hormones into the bloodstream, affecting all organs in the body, can benefit from yoga and this, in turn, leads to more efficient expulsion of toxins. In a nutshell, says one yoga teacher, “Yoga’s basic premise is that you are relieving the body of any minor blockages to the flow of energy. Everybody can do this”.
TIPS
• Fasting can be a very beneficial part of a healthy lifestyle, but fasts which last longer than 10 days should be supervised.
• Combine fresh fruit and vegetables (i.e. foods with a high water content) to achieve a gently progressing cleanse.
• Colonic irrigation is advisable during a fast to clear the accumulated toxins. A bulking agent and lots of water are also essential.
• Detoxification is a cumulative, on-going process, to be carried out regularly as part of a health program.
• Skin brushing activates and energizes the body’s largest eliminative organ, the skin.
• Worry and fear may increase toxicity in the body – meditation and relaxation can help detoxify the mind and spirit.