By Steven Wallace


Those interested in looking and feeling better often begin with a diet, since losing a few pounds is a common goal. Using a detox tea for weight loss is one way to attain an ideal weight. However, these teas, usually herbal in nature, require the user to have some knowledge of the properties of the ingredients and how each individual herb should be used. Even natural remedies can be harmful if used improperly.

First of all, herbs can be strong medicine. Anyone taking prescription drugs should be aware of interactions with herbs (and even foods). Things like anti-depressants and blood pressure medicines may not work well with a particular herb, even if it is a plant that has many health benefits. Ask a knowledgeable person, like a doctor or pharmacist.

There are many different formulas of cleansing teas, but there are a familiar few that are standard in products of this description. Some herbs are alright for daily use, but most are better when used occasionally or for a short period of time. Herbs that work as diuretics, laxatives, purifiers, and flavor additives are on this list.

Purifying herbs include burdock, which is a blood cleanser and skin tonic. Dandelion is another well-know plant; research shows that it has beneficial actions on the liver and kidneys, as well as on intestinal health. Milk thistle helps detoxify and heal the liver; it also aids digestion.

These are considered nutritive and tonic herbs, but you should be aware that they may have diuretic and laxative properties, too. Stronger diuretics include parsley, horsetail, hawthorn, juniper, lemongrass, and hibiscus. Of course, diuretics are often used in weight loss products, and losing 'water weight' can help shed pounds, but diuretics should not be overused. Anyone taking prescription drugs for water retention or edema should be especially cautious.

Detox programs are often dependent on laxatives for much of their efficacy. Some mild herbs used for this purpose are cascara sagrada and senna. Fenugreek and chickweed are also in this category. Stronger herbs are rhubarb and aloe vera. If a formula causes cramping or diarrhea, it is obviously too strong. A more dilute cup of tea might work well.

Using herbs in combination is considered a good practice, as the effects of one herb can be enhanced or buffered by those of another. Anyone using detox formulas must closely monitor the results. A particular formula with several of the laxative herbs might be too strong for daily use. Similarly, too many diuretics in one product might lead to dehydration, which is already a common problem for many.

A formula based on ginger or peppermint, both of which boost digestion and add a tasty flavor to a tea, could have some mixture of the herbs listed above and be a pleasant help in shedding excess pounds. Consumers should monitor the effects of any herbal product and make sure it is gentle as well as effective. When formulated and used properly, a detox tea can be very helpful. Most detoxes are suggested for a one or two week period, not for continuous use.




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