When we think of foods for a body detox diet, we typically think about fruits and vegetables. They’re more effective than French fries and a pepperoni pizza, right? Right, but we shouldn’t forget about the effectiveness of herbs. For centuries, ancient cultures like the Chinese have used herbs for detoxification purposes. Here are some of the most effective ones for achieving that objective.

1. Green Tea

Since ancient times, the Chinese have been using green tea for medicinal purposes. And today, clinical studies are providing solid evidence that green tea indeed provides several health benefits. For instance, it can reduce cholesterol levels, improve the proportion of “good” cholesterol (HDL) and even reduce the likelihood of acquiring certain types of cancer.
 

Green tea is high in something called “epigallocatechin gallate.” That’s somewhat of a tongue-twister to pronounce, so you can simply refer to it as EGCG. What exactly is EGCG? It’s a potent antioxidant that not only prevents the growth of cancer cells, but can even destroy cancer cells that have already formed!
 

2. Hibiscus

The Hibiscus is more than a lovely flower. Herbal remedies originate from the “calyx” of the Hibiscus. This safeguards the flower before it opens, and is packed with a particular substance called “anthocyanins.” What’s so special about anthocyanins when creating a body detox diet? This substance is full of flavonoids, which contain antioxidants. In fact, numerous scientists and herbalists worldwide have concluded that the consumption of Hibiscus provides helpful side effects. How often do we hear news about helpful side effects? Almost never!

3. Rosehips

Did you know that roses have hips? Rosehips, which can function as part of a body detox diet, grow from the blossoms of a particular type of wild rose, named rosa canina. Clinical studies have revealed that rosehip extracts can hinder lipid oxidation. Basically, this is process in which free radicals take electrons contained in cell membranes’ lipids—resulting in the damage of cells. Lipids include a wide range of molecules that occur naturally, such as Vitamins A, D, E, and K. Rosehips contain several flavonoids that function as antioxidants, which boost your immune system. Flavonoids are natural compounds found in fruits, vegetables, berries, and chocolate (yes, chocolate!) 

4. Slippery Elm

While most of us wouldn’t consider tree bark as a tasty midnight snack, slippery elm extract can be an effective ingredient of a body detox diet. For hundreds of years, Native Americans have used the interior bark of this tree as herbal remedy salves for various ailments--including burns, boils, ulcers, and so on. They also consumed it orally for disorders such as stomach problems and diarrhea. What’s so fantastic about this natural ingredient? It contains mucilage, which is a substance that can coat your stomach and intestines. Furthermore, slippery elm may contain antioxidants that can help to relieve bowel disorders that are inflammatory.  

These are only some of the ingredients need for a proper natural cleansing of your body. There is more free detox information found in our Detox Blog.