Ask Dr. Davis

Detoxification

Question

I have never done a detoxification program. I am 38 years old and have recently become interested in Ayurveda. I understand Ayurveda considers cleansing very important for good health. Can you please give me some advice on how to begin?
~ E.N. from Washington

Answer

You are correct — Ayurveda considers regular internal cleansing crucial for good health. Although the body has its own systems of elimination of impurities, often the body can't keep pace with the rate at which toxins build up inside. Toxins inside the body form a breeding ground for disease according to Ayurveda. If you have never done a cleansing program before, ideally you should begin a three-month process of purification now. After that, a one-month purification program is recommended at every change of season. Maharishi Ayurveda health centers offer a royal, comprehensive purification program called Panchakarma. This occurs over several days under the supervision of an ayurvedic vaidya. Or you can do it yourself at home, with diet and lifestyle changes and herbal formulas. Here are some tips to get you started:

• In the morning, or two hours before you go to bed, give yourself a relaxing full-body oil massage. This will improve circulation and help dislodge impurities from body tissues.
• Then take a warm bath to support the process of elimination of toxins.
• After that, take Elim-Tox or Elim-Tox-O herbal tablets to aid the cleansing of the blood, the colon and the entire body. The Herbal Cleanse formula works to regulate elimination.
• Continue taking the herbal formula for at least 3 months.
• Avoid eating leftovers and hard-to-digest foods.
• Avoid intake of alcohol, tobacco and caffeine.
• Drink plenty of warm water throughout the day.
• Eat lots of sweet, juicy fruits.
• Get plenty of rest — go to bed before 10 p.m.