Detoxification Toxin Elimination Tips * Eastern Medicine Detox Herbs *

Toxins are Everywhere!

Ridding your environment and body of toxins is one of the most important things you can do for your health. This month we've rounded up information that can help you find toxins in your home and suggest ways you can naturally eliminate them from your body.

In This Issue:

• Detoxification -- an Eastern Medicine point of view
• Support for natural detoxification
• Hidden toxins in your home
• Reducing exposure to toxins
• Alcohol is a toxin, too
• Alternatives to alcoholic beverages
• Drinking water cleanses your systems

Hidden Toxins in Your Home

Surrounding yourself with toxins sounds strange - downright crazy, even. Why is it, then, that we ignore the hidden pollutants in our own homes? Before you resort to a life in the wilderness, read what National Geographic says might be harmful to you and download our summary of what you can do to prevent the damage. In it you'll find valuable information about what's lurking in your appliances, nonstick pans, and even your food.

Reducing Exposure to Toxins

While some toxins are inescapable, recognizing their origins and effects can help you select preventative measures. A recent Newsweek article offers tips and tricks for reducing exposure to toxins in your home:

• Buy a water filter to trap pollutants
• Become knowledgeable about the ingredients in your toiletries (i.e. shampoo, lipstick, etc.)
• Avoid microwave popcorn
• Don't opt for stain-protection treatment on new furniture and clothes
• Use canned foods and plastic containers in moderation
• Buy PBDE-free electronic equipment
• Don't use paint containing Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
• Choose a dry cleaner that doesn't use Perchloroethylene
• Dust and vacuum weekly

Alcohol is a Toxin, Too

For some people, drinking alcohol is a way to relieve stress or escape from reality. For others, it's merely a social habit. Either way, alcohol is a toxin. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism emphasizes that the liver must work overtime to eliminate alcohol toxins from the body. As little as three drinks can cause serious liver problems when paired with common over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen. According to RevolutionHealth.com, alcohol inhibits the nerves that control innate functions such as breathing, a healthy heartbeat and gag reflex. When consumed in excess, alcohol may also cause a sudden drop in body temperature which can trigger cardiac arrest; and cause blood sugar to fall to a dangerously low level – a prime cause of seizures.*

Alternatives to Alcoholic Beverages

While recent research recognizes the health benefits of wine, drinking alcohol in excess is unhealthy. The soothing qualities of meditation and aromatherapy can be natural alternatives. Try setting some time aside each week to meditate. Meditation can be a time for deep reflection and rhythmic breathing or just quiet daydreaming. Either way, meditating instead of drinking alcohol is better for your health. For an added benefit, try meditating surrounded by the soothing scent of the lavender flower. Frequently used to inspire a more relaxed state-of-being, lavender can serve as a fragrant companion to meditation.*

Drinking Water Cleanses Your Systems

The human body is an impressive organism – one that has the power to detox naturally in a sufficient manner. All systems in the body, from the digestive system to the respiratory system, play a part in the detoxification process. Both Western and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) agree that increasing your water consumption will help your body expel pollutants. Consuming other healthy liquids, like herb teas and natural fruit juices, also help rid the body of toxins. NaturalHealthPerspective.com points out that the road to natural detoxification is paved with a variety of fiber-rich foods and healthy liquids.*