Body cleansing

From ArticleWorld

The practice of body cleansing is a common part of many alternative medical practices. The theoretical basis behind body cleansing or “detoxification” is that the methods used to cleanse the body are ridding the various body systems of built-up toxins.

Methods

Body cleansing involves several methods, each of which targets a specific body area. Colon cleansing, for example, can involve colonic enemas, the ingestion of dietary fiber or juices and the taking of herbal supplements known to cleanse the intestinal tract of harmful bacteria and toxins. Cleansing the kidneys in order to treat kidney stones also involves taking herbal supplements and large amounts of fluids to dissolve the stones and flush toxins out of the kidneys. The liver, particularly, harbors many toxins that the body can’t eliminate. Using herbs and other supplements can rid the liver of its toxic excesses.

Techniques

Many body cleansing techniques target the whole body at once. Tinctures or pills can be used to rid the body of parasites. Fasting can allow natural healing to take place and clean out the digestive tract. Oxygen therapy is theoretically used to increase the oxidative processes in the body which neutralizes toxic substances. Finally, the use of heat therapy promotes the sweating of toxins and the natural improvement of the immune system.

When seeing an alternative medical therapist for a chronic illness, digestive problems or even allergic conditions, the use of body cleansing is often employed early in the therapy, often before other treatment strategies are begun.