Spring is the time of birth and regeneration, characterised by optimism and opportunity. It is a time of growth, so very evident as we see all the plants and flowers coming into bloom, and wildlife awakening from the winter slumber.
On the flip side Spring also brings an abundance of pollen, and allergies or sinus issues can flare up. Spring allergy symptoms provide all the more reason to support our body to better undertake the processes of detoxification which will in turn assist us through the Springtime.
Detoxification is a natural process performed by the body almost constantly, to remove unwanted toxins, in the form of waste. Our liver and kidneys are our major detoxification organs. They eliminate their wastes through the bowels as faeces and urinary tract as urine.
Toxins are also released through the pores of our skin via sweat and in the form of carbon dioxide, exhaled from our lungs as we breathe.
So how do we know if these organs, otherwise known as detoxification pathways, are overloaded?
Some of the physical signs that our liver is toxic are:
- Allergies
- Skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema or acne
- Headaches or migraines
- Gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, bloating, and constipation
- Obesity or difficulty achieving healthy weight
- Fatigue
- Depression and anxiety
- Autoimmune disorders
Some of the emotional signs that our liver is toxic are:
- Anger
- Frustration / resentment
- Depression
- A feeling of hopelessness or feeling stuck
What are the benefits of well-functioning detox organs?
The benefits of a healthy, functioning detox system are many! You will experience feelings of sustained energy, good quality sleep, clarity, joy and a radiant complexion! People will notice that healthy glow.
And how do I best support my detox pathways?
The organs involved in natural detoxification are:
Liver: The liver loves greens. Dark green leafy vegetables, green juices, green powders.
Kidneys: The kidneys appreciate water. Pure, clean water and hydrating herbal teas, and foods with high fluid content such as watermelons and leafy greens.
Bowels: Our bowels need a balance of fibre and hydration. They also thrive on regular meal times and regular exercise.
Urinary tract: As per the kidneys, the urinary tract also needs pure, clean water for optimal functioning.
Skin: Our skin needs whatever the liver loves. The skin will break out if the liver is struggling. Dry skin brushing with a loofah to remove dead cells will support elimination via this organ.
Lungs: Our Lungs appreciate exercise, breath work, breathing clean air, and provide support for the nervous system. The lungs suffer when we feel anxious and worry so try some beautiful Pranayama practices for strong healthy lungs.
Consider the following ideas to support your body’s natural detoxification:
- Herbal Teas and Supplements
To help your body’s natural detoxification processes stay healthy and strong, try the following for support:
- Tulsi Cleanse Tea
- Tulsi Lax Tea
- Whole Husk Psyllium
- Tulsi Original
- Liver Kidney Herbal Supplement
- Triphala Herbal Supplement
- Bowelcare Herbal Supplement
- Intermittent Fasting
You could also try Intermittent Fasting, which can be as simple as keeping a 12 hour period without food overnight to support the body while it undertakes its natural detox processes.
- Emotions
To detox emotionally, work on expressing emotions in a healthy way. Try journaling, writing, exercising, whatever does it for you! Tulsi Tea has been shown to be wonderful as a mood enhancer, and Tulsi Rose Tea is lovely for all matters of the heart.
At times, one organ will struggle more than another. If one detox organ is under more stress, then all of the other pathways are forced to compensate. For example, if there is constipation, then more toxins need to find their way out of the skin.
Ideally, our regular wellness practices would support all of our pathways to function well. So, to support our hardworking detox organs, drink plenty of pure water, organic herbal teas, eat plenty of vital, leafy greens, embrace some breathing exercises and you’re well on your way to a clean, fresh, energised, radiant Spring.
About the Author: Sarah Holloway is an ORGANIC INDIA team member with a keen interest in Ayurveda and a background in environmental resource management. She is a proud Aunty and lives near Byron Bay with her husband and beloved pooch.