Using 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.

Of course, anyone taking prescription medicines must be especially careful. Most laymen and even most doctors don't know how a drug might react when used with an herb. Many medical practitioners recommend avoiding all herbs, but this really does limit their patients' ability to regain health and well-being. Detox teas often contain some of the more potent herbs, however, so caution is important.

There are many different formulas of cleansing teas, but there are a familiar few that are standard in products of this description. Some herbs are alright for daily use, but most are better when used occasionally or for a short period of time. Herbs that work as diuretics, laxatives, purifiers, and flavor additives are on this list.

Purifying herbs might have some diuretic or laxative effect, but they have more of an effect on the kidneys and liver, helping these organs clean toxins from the bloodstream. In this category are burdock, dandelion, and milk thistle. Dandelion and milk thistle promote good digestion, while burdock is especially helpful for those with skin disorders like psoriasis and eczema.

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.

Detox programs are often dependent on laxatives for much of their efficacy. Some mild herbs used for this purpose are cascara sagrada and senna. Fenugreek and chickweed are also in this category. Stronger herbs are rhubarb and aloe vera. If a formula causes cramping or diarrhea, it is obviously too strong. A more dilute cup of tea might work well.

Formulas are designed to let herbs buffer each other, keeping any one from being too strong. A formula should not have too many herbs with similar properties. Too much of a laxative or diuretic could lead to dehydration, which is already a common problem in modern society. Detox should proceed gradually, as should weight loss. Herbals are generally safe when used in the time honored way and in the manner that has proved safe over centuries of use.

A formula based on ginger or peppermint, both of which boost digestion and add a tasty flavor to a tea, could have some mixture of the herbs listed above and be a pleasant help in shedding excess pounds. Consumers should monitor the effects of any herbal product and make sure it is gentle as well as effective. When formulated and used properly, a detox tea can be very helpful. Most detoxes are suggested for a one or two week period, not for continuous use.




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