How to Detox to Eliminate Toxins
Société Apothecary
In Ayurveda, time of change is "Vata," so Fall (and Spring) are the ideal times to do a cleanse/detox to eliminate toxins (ama). This resets your body so you feel healthy, re-energized, and prevents you from getting sick. It also helps eliminate those toxins that could be causing those mysterious ailments that you think you can only cure with prescription medication such rashes, acne, etc. It's a great way to start to treat more concerning health issues too. For the past 5 years I have done a detox 2 times a year and have found that a great week to do this is when we set the clocks ahead or back (easy reminder so I always know when to do it and don't make excuses not to!). I highly recommend starting it on a day you don't have to work, so I always start mine on a Saturday or Sunday. A great Ayurvedic cleanse essentially is no caffeine (eek!), no alcohol, no sugar, eating vegetarian (Vegan/Ayurvedic if possible), having a daily meditation and detoxifying yoga practice (lots of twists!), and using essential oils (detoxifying oils such as tangerine, rosemary, geranium, juniper berry and cilantro but be sure you know the contraindications!) to your fiber drink, tea or water. If you get a headache from the caffeine withdrawal, a couple drops of peppermint essential oil on your ear lobes will give you energy and act as an analgesic for the pain. I also like to dry brush with tea tree oil this time of year, which stimulates the lymphatic system in the body which really strengthens your immunity. Other great oils for a detox are to put in diffuser: lemon, eucalyptus, and german chamomile. I also do abyangha (daily self massage) and use it as excuse to get a professional massage which will further help eliminate those toxins. For those who are brave...there's a couple of teaspoons or tablespoons of castor oil to clean out the digestive system (plan to stay home that day!). The Zrii Purify is a great gentle supplement support as well - consisting of daily herbs, fiber drink and oil to really assist in your cleanse. Of course our Detox tea is a great support with detoxifying herbs such as dandelion leaf, dandelion root, milk thistle, blessed thistle, nettle, burdock root, ginger root, and blueberry leaves. These herbs may help detox the liver and blood stream, as well as provide anti-oxidants. The benefits are amazing; in addition to the above this helps maintain your perfect weight and shed a couple pounds before the holiday feasting begins! Three Triphala Recipes to Try at Home Triphala Herbal Tea 1 teaspoon Triphala powder 1 cup hot water Honey or lemon (optional) Boil a cup of water and let it cool slightly. Add the Triphala powder to a cup. Pour the hot water over the powder and stir well. Allow the tea to steep for 5-10 minutes. Strain the tea into another cup if desired, and add honey or lemon to taste. Triphala Honey Tonic 1 teaspoon Triphala powder 1 tablespoon raw honey 1 cup warm water Warm up a cup of water until it's comfortable to touch. Mix the Triphala powder and raw honey into the warm water. Stir until the honey and powder are fully dissolved. Drink this tonic in the morning on an empty stomach for best results. Triphala Face Mask 1 tablespoon Triphala powder 2 tablespoons yogurt (or rose water for a vegan option) A few drops of olive oil (optional) In a small bowl, combine the Triphala powder and yogurt (or rose water) to form a smooth paste. Add a few drops of olive oil for added moisture, if desired. Apply the paste evenly to your clean face and neck. Leave the mask on for 15-20 minutes. Rinse off with lukewarm water and pat your skin dry. Always consult a qualified practitioner before starting any detox regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions.