Springtime Is Cleanse Time

An Herbalist’s Perspective

Ellen Zimmerman studied herbalism in 1994 with Rosemary Gladstar. Zimmerman, a certified marriage and family counselor, developed a special interest and expertise in women’s health and went on to found the Austin (Texas) School of Herbal Studies in 1995. She gives individual consultations and holds workshops throughout the year, and also blends her own herbal teas, tinctures and salves from herbs grown on her 5-acre homestead near Austin. One of Zimmerman’s specialities is her Spring/Fall Liver Cleansing Tea. For more information or to purchase the tea, visit Zimmerman’s website at www.EZHerbs.net or call (512) 301-5838.

Nancy Allison: When most people hear the word “detox,” they probably think of fasting. What’s your notion of “detox” — and how can we accomplish it with herbs?

Ellen Zimmerman: I think of “detoxing” as cleansing, supporting and nourishing your body. A gentle detox can be accomplished with herbs by drinking a cleansing tea; by eliminating sugar, alcohol, processed foods, white flour and preservatives from your diet — which should be done ordinarily; and by eating light, nutritious meals for one week’s time. This can assist the body, particularly the liver, in eliminating toxins from the body and replenishing and rejuvenating your blood.

N.A.: What are the best herbs for cleansing the body’s systems?

E.Z.: I believe the best herbs for cleansing the body and supporting the liver are dandelion root, echinacea root, burdock root, wild yam root, milk thistle seeds, licorice root, sassafras and gingerroot.

N.A.: Do these herbs have a long history of use as detoxifiers?

E.Z.: Yes, all of these herbs have a history of being used as detoxifiers.

N.A.: How long a process is it? Some detox programs go on for weeks!

E.Z.: I recommend a cleansing regime for one week in the fall and one week in the spring. Hence the name of my Spring/Fall Liver Cleansing Tea. You also can drink the tea at other times when you are ill or whenever liver support is needed.

N.A.: Will I feel any different during or after the detox? What benefits will I gain?

E.Z.: There might be a laxative effect during the detox, which is one of the body’s natural ways of eliminating toxins. The benefits gained would be a nourished, healthier liver, gallbladder, spleen and pancreas. You also will need to breathe fresh air, get a lot of rest and exercise appropriately. The great benefit of better health is the greatest gain.

N.A.: Will I lose weight?

E.Z.: There may be a slight weight loss during the detox but that is not the aim of the cleanse.

N.A.: Are there any health risks to detoxing with herbs?

E.Z.: Anyone can be allergic to anything. Take responsibility for yourself and make sure all of these herbs are agreeable to you. In most situations, the herbs I have mentioned are used safely and effectively by the majority of people.