Cleaner Living
by Eden Lavender, Naturopath
As a naturopath, I focus on the body’s cleansing channels (emunctories); the liver, lungs, skin, lymphatics, kidneys and intestines. When one or more of these channels are not functioning well, the body becomes out of balance and will try to compensate with other channels becoming overburdened. The resultant waste material in the body can lead to increased inflammation, fatigue and susceptibility to infections. Here are some tips to support our body’s natural elimination processes:
Liver
Reduce the intake of processed foods,refined sugar and alcohol
Eat the rainbow - enjoy organic wholefoods in a variety of colours! Foods
containing antioxidants support the liver detoxification pathways.
Include leafy greens, berries, green tea, garlic, onion and broccoli
Consider St Mary’s Thistle that has a restorative and protective effect on the liver
Bowels
Aim for 25-30gms fibre/day to promote regular bowel movements - vegetables &
fruit, beans, oats, seeds and nuts
Optimise water intake to keep stools soft and prevent constipation.
Lungs
Manage stress and anxiety to prevent shallow, ineffective breathing
Maintain correct posture to support a proper breathing technique
Make time for some nature therapy such as forest bathing and fresh ocean air
Try dry skin brushing to stimulate lymphatic vessels, just below the skin’s surface
Lymphatics
Get active to support the circulation of lymph
Drink Calendula and Echinacea teas to help improve the flow of lymphatic fluid
Kidneys
Stay hydrated - drink at least 2L of water daily, more if it’s hot or you’re exercising
Drink Dandelion leaf tea for its diuretic action and potassium content
For more individualised advice email
Instagram- @edenlavender_holistic health
The information in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for individual health care advice. Please consult your friendly local naturopath, herbalist or other health care practitioner for personalised advice, particularly if you have a diagnosed medical condition or take pharmaceutical medications or any supplements
First published 2023