Detox Tea For Weight Loss

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.

Teas that purport to cleanse the body of toxins often contain standard herbs that have been used for this purpose for centuries. This list includes purifying herbs, diuretics, laxatives, digestive aids, and plants added for a pleasing taste and aroma. Tradition may say that an herb is OK for daily use, or the recommendation might be to use it sporadically.

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.

Laxative herbs are also found in detox formulas. Mild ones include cascara sagrada and flax, while senna and rhubarb are considered slightly stronger. Fenugreek and chickweed are other mild laxatives. Aloe vera is an herb that is soothing to the skin and intestines but can have a strong purgative effect when used internally.

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.

Other herbs are often added for their effect on digestion and for their tasty flavor and aroma. Ginger, peppermint, and licorice (or fennel) add a pleasant taste and smell, but they are all valuable digestive aids, too. These mild herbs can also dilute the stronger, more targeted herbs in a formula and make the product gentle though effective. Each person should understand the effects of a tea and use it accordingly. The results should never include cramping or purging; which are signs that a mixture is too strong.




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