The blood mainly functions for transporting all sorts of materials throughout the body, from oxygen to hormones, clotting factors, sugar, fats and the cells of the immune system. There’s really no need to invest in an expensive cleanse diet or buy tons of detox supplements to help keep the blood clean and free of toxins and waste. The liver and kidneys purify the blood by removing and breaking down waste. So, the best bet for purifying the blood naturally would be to find ways to help these essential organs function most efficiently.
In This Article:
All You Need to Know about Herbal Detox
What is Herbal Detox?
Detox diets are generally short-term dietary interventions designed to eliminate toxins from the body. Sometimes it also includes herbs, teas, supplements, and colon cleanses or enemas. Herbal detox is detox which includes herbs. This is claimed to –
- Rest the organs by fasting
- Stimulate the liver to get rid of toxins
- Promote toxin elimination through feces, urine and sweat
- Improve circulation
Provide the body with healthy nutrients
Blood Cleansing Basics
The blood serves three basic functions –
- Transport – the blood transports gases such as oxygen and carbon dioxide to and from the lungs and the rest of the body. The blood also moves nutrients from the digestive tract to the rest of the body and transports substances like waste products, hormones, and other cells.
- Protection – the blood contains white blood cells that destroy invading microorganisms as well as platelet factors to clot the blood and minimize blood loss from any of the injuries.
- Regulation – the blood helps to regulate the body’s ph, water balance, and temperature.
Fortunately, the body already has a system to take care of the detox process and remove waste from the blood, namely the liver and the kidneys.
- Liver – it helps convert food into energy. Also, it converts toxins like alcohol, harmful metals and medications into harmless substances and ensures they are removed from the body.
- Kidneys – these are two-bean shaped organs responsible for filtering the blood and removing waste.
The body’s natural detox process also involves the intestines, skin, spleen and lymphatic system.
There are a lot of unfolded claims about detox supplements that can supposedly cleanse and purify the blood. While the ingredients in these supplements might help the blood indirectly by supporting kidney and liver function but there is no evidence or proof to show that they have a direct impact on removing waste and toxins from the blood.
Foods to Eat
The following foods, in particular, have been shown to positively affect the liver and kidneys’ ability to cleanse and filter out waste and toxins from the blood are –
- Water – by far the best way to boost the kidney’s performance is to drink enough water. Kidneys depend on water to help eliminate waste from the body. Water also helps keep the blood vessels open so that blood can move freely. Severe dehydration can lead to kidney damage. The urine should be light yellow or colorless throughout the day. A general rule is 8 glasses of water per day.
- Cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, brussels sprouts) – they are often recommended for people with kidney disease. They are high in antioxidants and extremely nutritious. They have been shown to reduce the risk of many types of cancer including kidney cancer. Also, are incredibly versatile.
- Blueberries – they are incredibly high in antioxidants which can protect the liver from damage.
- Cranberries – they are often touted for urinary tract benefits. They have been shown to prevent bacteria from attaching to the urinary tract which in turn keeps the kidneys free from infection.
- Coffee – drinking coffee or intake may have protective effects on the liver. Studies show that drinking coffee lowers the risk of cirrhosis in people with chronic liver disease and may also reduce the risk of developing liver cancer. The benefits may be because of coffee’s ability to prevent the accumulation of fat and collagen in the liver.
- Garlic – it adds a wonderful flavor to any dish whether raw or in powdered form. It has anti-inflammatory properties and can help lower cholesterol and blood pressure.
- Grapefruit – it is high in antioxidants and may help control inflammation in the body.
- Apples – these contain a high amount of a soluble fiber known as pectin. Soluble fiber helps regulate blood sugar levels.
- Fish – certain types of fish like salmon, tuna or sardines are high in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to decrease blood triglycerides levels and lower blood pressure.
Helpful Herbs
- Ginger – it may help improve the body’s control of blood sugar.
- Green tea – it may improve the health of the liver, reduce fat deposits in the liver and possibly ward against liver cancer.
- Hibiscus – it has diuretic effects on the body and may assist with kidney filtration.
- Parsley – it also protects the liver. It may help with urinary volume which helps the kidneys get rid of waste.
- Dandelion – it acts as a diuretic which means it increases the amount of water moving through the kidneys. This, in turn, helps filter out waste from the body.
Conclusion
There’s no need to buy detox supplements to keep the blood clean. The body is equipped with a detox system of its own. A balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables and enough water is needed. If diagnosed with a liver or kidney condition, talk to the doctor about any special dietary changes, herbal teas or lifestyle changes need to make in order to manage the condition.
Sources:
- https://www.healthline.com/health/blood-purifier#takeaway
- Https://food.ndtv.com/food-drinks/herbs-for-detox-5-ingredients-that-will-help-reboot-your-system-1730003
