Lemon
In the jeopardy line of powerful detoxes, the answer is almost always lemon water. It improves digestion, supports your immune system, cures bad breath, brightens skin, and aids weight loss. Squeeze half a lemon or throw a few slices in water and indulge.
Ginger
This spice is packed with vitamins and combats important health problems, such as acid reflux, along with lowering the risk of heart problems. Boil or steam some chopped ginger in hot water or simply throw a spoon of powdered ginger root in a tall glass for a spicy energy boost and thorough cleanse.
Turmeric
This antioxidant, antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory spice mixed in warm water proves to be a powerful tonic. This pungent herb, even in powder form, is loaded with Vitamin C, E, and K, which are all great for rejuvenating your skin from the inside out.
Cayenne Pepper
This pepper is surprisingly high in nutrients and low in calories, making it the perfect addition to any diet. The capsaicin (what makes the pepper hot) in cayenne water helps with weight loss by burning fat while reducing appetite. Cayenne is also powerful in detoxifying your lungs. Moderately sprinkle some pepper in (lemon) water.
Green Tea
If hot cayenne pepper is not your cup of tea, consider this valued and popular beverage. It improves brain and oral health, keeps bones strong and is known for its anti-aging properties. It also helps to regulate blood sugar levels, so sit back and have a cup or two.
Apple Cider Vinegar
What doesn’t smell good or taste great but works like a charm? Not Buckleys. Apple Cider Vinegar is the ultimate detox companion with its heavy resumé of enzymes, minerals, and amino acids. It’s so good for you on every level that it even whitens your teeth and kills bacteria in your mouth and gums. One teaspoon for every 8 oz glass of water is enough to do the trick.
Bentonite Clay
This is an ancient detox that also internally heals. Upon contact with water, it produces an electrical charge which allows it to absorb toxins. It’s renowned for its ability to heal digestive issues and tackle skin and allergy issues while nourishing the body with minerals and boosting it with probiotics. Prepare your clay detox a day before by soaking one tablespoon in a large glass of water and letting it sit overnight.
Chlorella
Known as a nutrient-dense superfood, chlorella is rich in chlorophyll which is also found in green leafy vegetables. It’s so powerful that it can not only remove mercury but also heavy toxic build-up. This helps to promote growth and repair of body tissues. Chlorella is available in pills or powder form. Because of its potency, it’s recommended to start with a small dosage and increase based on your body’s reaction. Detoxifying the body doesn’t have to be complex or rigorous. There are a handful of other simple detox options, like drinking warm water or using a steam room. Nutrition can aid in detoxifying the body as well as certain foods that speed up the elimination of toxins. Load up on antioxidant herbs like parsley and oregano and whole, fibre-rich foods such as nuts, flax seeds, beans, and lentils. Featured photo credit: Lemon falls into water by Fleig photography via flickr.com