A One-Week Cleansing and Detoxification Program

[Guest guest]

A One-Week Cleansing and Detoxification Program

by Janet Zand, OMD, L.Ac.

____________________________________

In both Chinese and Naturopathic medicine, the spring season is the optimal

time of year for cleansing and detoxification. But remember, cleansing can be

beneficial during all seasons of the year. An effective cleansing program

targets two important organ systems -- the colon (for elimination) and the

liver (for detoxification).

The herbs Psyllium and Cascara Sagrada are two of the most widely used

remedies in colon cleansing programs. Psyllium (Plantaga ovata seed and husk)

is

categorized as a bulk laxative -- its mucilaginous component acts as a bulking

agent that cleanses the intestines. In addition, Psyllium has other

important health benefits -- studies show that it reduces low density

lipoproteins

(the bad cholesterol) and regulates blood sugar levels. Cascara Sagrada

(Rhamnus Purshiana bark) has been used for centuries to treat occasional

constipation -- its active components stimulate the intestinal lining and

relieve a

sluggish colon. The combination of both Psyllium (as a bulking agent) and

Cascara

(as a stimulant laxative) is essential in an effective colon cleansing

program.

Detoxification is best supported with herbs that target the liver, which is

responsible for many of the important " detox " functions in the body. And Milk

Thistle is the place to start. Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum seed) is used

to detoxify the liver and protect it from harmful toxins. Studies show that

this beneficial herb not only protects the liver but also promotes the

regeneration of healthy new liver cells. Other herbs traditionally used to

support

the liver include Dandelion (Taraxacum Officinale root), Yellow Dock (Rumex

Crispus root), and the Chinese herb Bupleurum (Radix Bupleurum).

Cleansing and detoxification encourage the body's natural internal processes

that eliminate toxins from our system so that we can feel our best. In any

cleansing program, diet and exercise should be emphasized in order to ensure

optimal results! The following is an easy-to-follow program -- try it for one

week, and see how you feel.

Diet and Exercise for a One-Week Cleansing Program

Fasting may be a useful way to detox, but it is difficult, especially for

those who work and have families to care for. A cleansing diet, on the other

hand, can be very beneficial and creates less stress on the body as it is

purified. Cleansing foods include cooked whole grains, steamed vegetables, raw

vegetable salads, fruit, and juices. Avoid sauces, dressings, butter, and oil.

However, you may use lemon juice as a dressing for salads and vegetables. You

should also limit your intake of flour or bread products. Whole grain

wheat-free bread, wheat-free crackers, and rice cakes are acceptable. And

remember,

drink lots of pure water -- at least 8 glasses a day!

Exercise is also a very important part of any cleansing program. Th is means

exercising to the point of perspiration. The skin is the largest organ of

elimination in the body and sweating eliminates toxins. You may also consider

using a loofa scrub to further stimulate elimination through the skin.

Jogging, brisk walking, cycling, and swimming are all excellent forms of

exercise to

supplement this program.

Herbs for a One-Week Cleansing Program

* Psyllium Seed and Husk combination -- suggested Use: One dose, two

times daily, in the morning and evening

* Stimulant Laxative with Cascara Sagrada -- Directions: One dose, one

time daily, in the evening

* Milk Thistle Combination with Cascara Sagrada -- Suggested Use: One

dose, two times daily, in the morning and evening.

After Your One-Week Cleansing Program

* Try adaptogenic herbs such as Siberian Ginseng or American Ginseng

for one month to support energy, enhance immune function and benefit overall

health.

* Repeat this program at least once a year -- as part of your spring

cleansing or during seasonal changes.

* Consider use for one week in the autumn -- to prepare for the cold

and flu season.

* Or try it any time your system needs cleansing.

After you have completed this one week program, you may repeat it, or choose

the regimen outlined below. This rotational program may be used during the

spring or any time your liver and body need cleansing and detoxification, and

does not feature Cascara or Psyllium for colon cleansing.

Week 1: A Milk Thistle combination with other supporting herbs. Suggested

use: one dose, three times daily.

Week 2: An Echinacea and goldenseal combination. Suggested use: One dose,

three times daily.

Week 3: Repeat week 1

Week 4: Repeat week 2

Jeff el

10360 Pine Lakes Blvd

North Fort Myers, Fl,33903

http://www.msprotocols.com/