Holistic Lung & Liver Detox

Lung and liver function are very important to overall health. Many people are turning to holistic and alternative treatments in order to achieve better health. With the rising cost of health care in the United States and the poor economy, people can't afford traditional treatments like they used to, so holistic treatments, which are thought to be healthier and gentler on the system, seem to be a smart choice.

What is a Detox?

• Detoxifying means clearing the toxins and negative (harmful) items out of your body. Detoxification can involve taking a supplement or vitamin, drinking a liquid, fasting, or eating certain foods. Which form of detoxification you choose is dependent on your preferences as an individual and what you are trying to achieve.

  Detoxification will potentially flush out the body's toxins. A colon cleansing is one way to do this and is one of the more popular methods advertised throughout the media today. Herbs and hydrotherapy can be used to cleanse the colon. Hydrotherapy is the application of water to the colon. This process helps the bowels resume normal function.

  You can also change your diet by eliminating refined flour, sugars, caffeine, and alcohol. Herbal cleansing kits can also be used. Flaxseed is a common ingredient found in herbal cleansing kits. Such kits can be put together at home or can be purchased from your local health food store.

Detoxing the Lungs

• Herbs and spices can be a powerful detoxification for the lungs. Parsley is great for detoxifying the lungs. It is often used in a smoker's cleanse after a smoker has quit. Parsley has a strong reaction against carcinogens found within tobacco smoke. Consume parsley regularly (or with meals) to receive cleansing benefits.

  Rosemary is the next herb used for cleansing the lungs. It smells like pine and has needle-like leaves. Some people believe that it can prevent lung cancer. Rosemary can be added to soups, vegetable dishes, and rice.

  Other herbs useful for detoxification in general include nettle, which is rich in vitamins A, C, D, and K, and can help clear out the lungs. Red root can be used for throat infections and can be used to clear out both liver and lung blockages.

Detoxing the Liver

• Turmeric has been used in holistic medicine for centuries to detoxify the liver. It is often used at the beginning of a program of detoxification. Oregano is also good for liver function, because it is a natural antioxidant.

  Burdock can be used to detoxify the lymph and the liver and is considered a blood cleanser. It's been known to improve kidney function and to regulate blood sugar levels.