The herbs listed below are better taken as teas because they are more readily assimilated and you thereby increase your fluid intake, rather than having to drink extra glasses of water with capsules.

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)

Dandelion has a cleansing effect because it aids the function of the liver, which carries many of the body’s most vital digestive and blood cleansing functions. Dandelion has the ability to clear obstructions and it stimulates the liver to detoxify poisons.

It has gentle laxative properties and, eaten raw, it is said to improve the enamel of the teeth.

Burdock (Arctium lappa)

Burdock is another great blood purifier that works very well in conjunction with Dandelion. It has the ability to reduce swelling around the joints. This is because of its power to promote kidney function, enabling the kidneys to clear the blood of harmful acids that create joint swelling and pain.

It also aids the pituitary gland in releasing an ample supply of protein to help adjust the body's hormone balance and it is helpful in all skin conditions, including eczema.

Nettle (Urtica dioica)

Nettle is one of the best blood purifiers. It contains alkaloids that neutralise uric acid, which helps with rheumatism, gout and toxicity. It is also extremely rich in chlorophyll (another powerful blood cleanser), as well as iron, silicon and potassium. The whole plant is extremely medicinal, from the roots to the seed.

Research has indicated its value in treating Alzheimer's disease, arthritis, asthma, bladder infections, bronchitis, bursitis, gingivitis, gout, hives, kidney stones, laryngitis, multiple sclerosis, PMS, prostate enlargement, sciatica, and tendinitis. Externally it has been used to improve the appearance of the hair, and as a remedy for oily hair and dandruff.

The leaves when lightly boiled to neutralise the stinging quality can also be used to cleanse the blood, tone up the whole system and as a cure for anaemia, rheumatism, sciatica, arthritis and infertility. The root is used in the treatment of dropsy, lymphatic ailments, and to remove gravel and stones from any organ in which they have formed, especially the kidneys.

Chlorella micro-alga

Chlorella contains chlorophyll, more than 20 vitamins and minerals including B complex, beta-carotene, vitamins C and E, iron and calcium, and 19 of the 22 amino acids. It is almost 70% protein. Chlorophyll is a liver detoxifier, a bowel cleanser, and a catalyst for the absorption of other elements, including iron. Chlorella is the highest source of the nucleic acids DNA and RNA, reduced levels of which are implicated in physical deterioration and ageing.

It boosts the immune system and fights infection. It has been shown to increase the good bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract, helping treat ulcers, colitis, diverticulosis and Crohn's disease. It has been used to treat constipation, fibromyalgia, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and cancer, and also to protect the body from the effects of cancer radiation treatment. It is effective in removing heavy metals from the bloodstream. In Japan, it is traditionally used as a treatment for duodenal ulcers, gastritis, hypertension, diabetes, hypoglycaemia, asthma, and constipation.

Dietary Fiber

This is the mechanical part of the cleansing process. Dietary fiber helps sweep out the colon and by increasing the bulk of stools, it helps constipation, which always leads to toxicity. Soluble fibre intakes of between 2 and 10 grams per day have also been shown to produce significant but small decreases in total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol. Oat bran, psyllium hulls and pectin are all good sources of soluble fiber.

By Patricia Howitt

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