Step Eighteen: Dr. S’s Favorite Detox Recipes

An essential component of a safe and effective detox is healthy, nourishing foods & beverages to support your body as you cleanse. Here are my favorite, easy juice, tea, smoothie, tonic, shake & soup recipes!

This is the 18th post in a 20-part series about how to detox your body, life and spirit. Make sure to check out the first post in the series, which also lists all 20 steps of the detox program. You can also subscribe to be notified of future posts, and sign up to receive my free 67-page detox e-book.

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JUICE, TEA & SMOOTHIE RECIPES

1. CELERY JUICE

• 1 – 2 stalk/s of celery juiced

Celery is loaded with antioxidants and polysaccharides. Antioxidants can help alleviate the harm free radicals cause on the body — one of the most common causes of inflammation. Inflammation is a major contributor in chronic diseases like arthritis, cancer, and heart disease.

Inflammation is also a huge factor in skin disease such as eczema, psoriasis, and acne; eating and drinking celery juice can enhance skin beauty and reduce  skin symptoms.

Celery also has been known for its ability to lower blood pressure. There is a component in celery juice called BuPh that has positive affect on cholesterol, making it great for heart health. .

It’s also rich in vitamin C, vitamin B, potassium, and electrolytes.

Celery is antibacterial and antimicrobial, can inhibit the growth of bacteria, boost the efficiency of your immune system, and fight any bacterial infections that might be manifesting within your body.  This aspect of celery can improve digestion and reduce bloating.

2. CARROT GINGER JUICE

• 10 – 12 Carrots
• 1 apple (or orange)
• Ginger root to preference of bite (can replace with 1/2 – 1 teaspoon of powder ginger if root is unavailable)
• 3 turmeric roots (can replace with 1-2 teaspoon of powder turmeric if root is not available)

This juice is chalk full of vitamin A, E and C — vitamins that are amazing for skin health! They support collagen production, protect against UV radiation and oxidation from sun exposure.

The high vitamin A content in carrots may also protect the eyes and lungs against disease:

• Prevents cataracts
• Prevents glaucoma
• Reduce the risk of red eye
• Reduce the risk of itchy eyes
• Protects against tuberculosis and lung fibrosis

Both have properties that support the immune system and protect against viruses and bacterial attack, by increasing white blood cell production in bone marrow.

Ginger contains an active ingredient called Gingerol that lowers blood pressure and improves blood circulation to protect against heart disease. Combined with the vitamin A and C from carrots, it helps keep the arteries cholesterol-free and lowers the risk of heart attack and stroke.

This juice also protects the mucous lining of the stomach by promoting healthy gut flora and relieving constipation.

3. CANTALOUPE JUICE

• ½ – 1 Cantaloupe
• Cinnamon and nutmeg 

Cantaloupes have a high water and fiber content making it a great for your hydration. The water content also aids in digestion.

This is another juice that is great for the skin due to its high level of vitamin C content. It promotes collagen production, immune support and antioxidant levels.

The choline in cantaloupe helps to maintain the cellular membranes, absorption of fats and to reduce chronic inflammation. Choline also provides nerve protection which allows for the impulses across synapses (connection between neurons) to be better transmitted.

Zea-xanthin present in cantaloupe protects the eyes from age-related macular degeneration.

The active ingredients in cinnamon — eugenol, ethyl cinnamate, methyl chavicol, beta-caryophyllene and linalool among others — give cinnamon its nutritional value.

There are studies suggestion that cinnamon may help protect against diabetes by reducing insulin-resistance and lowering blood sugar levels; in turn keeping energy levels regulated throughout the day. This is another reason cinnamon can assist in weight loss and weight management and is known to lower “Bad/LDL”  and raise “Good/HDL” cholesterol contributing to its anti-inflammatory function.

Cinnamon also contributes to weight loss by combating as anti-fungal and protecting the gut against overgrowth of Candida Albicans, Candida feeds on sugar and actually sends signals to the brain forcing the mind to think it craves sugar.

Cinnulin is an antioxidant that protects the heart and combats free radical damage. Free radical damage is a major contributor in aging. Cinnulin has been suggested to repair mutated DNA potentially avoiding a number of chronic diseases.

Nutmeg tastes amazing and has very similar health effects to cinnamon, so why not double down!

4. GREEN JUICE

• Kale, dandelion, collards, cilantro, and parsley
• ½ – 1 apple
• ½ – lemon
• H2O

Refer to previous previous blog post on Bitter Greens for more information on health benefits!

5. BURDOCK & DANDELION ROOT TEA

• Burdock root
• Dandelion root
• Steeped in hot water

Burdock and dandelion root have so many great healing properties, especially for the blood and liver!

Given the blood purifying effects of burdock, it is no surprise that it protects the skin against eczema, psoriasis, acne and other skin issues affected by unhealthy blood. Due to its ability to improve blood flow and circulation it actually can stimulate hair growth due to high content of phytosterols and essential fatty acids. So if you are a person who loves and/or wants to improve their luscious lions mane, burdock is probably for you!

Burdock regulates blood sugar, as one of the fibers found in this root actually prevents the absorption of sugars.

As mentioned above, the liver loves burdock! By promoting the production of bile, which most people know comes from the liver, burdock root can assists the body in its secretion and excretion of unwanted waste products from the blood, reducing toxins in the body.

Burdock also has strong anti-inflammatory properties which alleviate pain especially in people who suffer from arthritis.

Dandelion root is used to treat gut, liver, and lung diseases in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

It detoxifies and prevents liver damage with its high content of  iron, vitamin A and calcium all of which are key to liver health. This root is thought to promote increased bile production, while also cleansing the liver and gallbladder.

Dandelion root is also great for the gut by promoting healthy gut flora, reducing gas and bloating, and aiding in digestion by relieving constipation with its mild laxative effects.

As a diuretic, dandelion root may help lower blood pressure. It is also a good source of fiber and potassium, which supports healthy blood pressure.

Burdock references: (1)(2)(3)

Dandelion references: (1)(2)(3)

6. ADRENAL TONIC

• Chaga, reishi and  cordyceps mushrooms
• Ashwagandha and astragalus 
• Tribulus 
• Mixed in hot water (option to add cacao, nut mil, honey or maple syrup  and/or rose water)

In Chinese Medicine, mushrooms are known to have several health benefits. These nutritious fungi eat decay in nature to grow. Medicinal mushrooms may also eat decay in the body.

Chaga mushrooms are known for their immune boosting properties and improving overall health. They promote the formation of beneficial cytokines, interleukin 6 (IL-6) and T lymphocytes (specialized proteins that balance the immune system). They also boost white blood cells, which are essential for fighting off harmful bacteria or viruses.

The antioxidant triterpene is the component of Chaga which protects cells against free radicals.  Chaga has been suggested to be taken for many free radical connected illnesses, including:

• Heart disease
• Diabetes
• Liver disease
• Parasites
• Stomach pain
• Certain types of cancer

(Sources) (1) (2) (3)

Reishi may regulate and fine tune the immune system. Reishi contains polysaccharides, known to increase the body’s apoptosis (DNA damaged or abnormal cell death) and cellular differentiation, as well as aid in strengthening the spleen.

Reishi can reduced fatigue and depression, as well as improve quality of life. Reishi may increase good cholesterol “HDL” and reduce triglycerides. (Sources) (1) (2)

Cordyceps have been seen to treat liver disease and help protect against liver damage.  It has been mentioned to have anti-aging properties and Traditional Tibetan healers have recommended Cordyceps as a tonic for all illnesses.  This is because they continually witness how it improves people’s energy, sleep habits, digestion, stamina, libido and endurance. (Source) (1) (2) (3)

Ashwaganda is another traditional medicinal herb. It has been noted to reduce stress, anxiety, depression and may improve mental clarity as well as focus. It has been said to support fertility in men and boost testosterone.

(Sources) (1) (2) (3)

Astragalus can benefit the kidneys, speed wound recovery, enhance athletic performance, and support heart health.(Source)

Tribulus can potentially reduce blood sugar and cholesterol, alter hormone levels and increase sexual function and libido. Saponins are chemical compounds in Tribulus, and they are thought to be responsible for its health benefits.(Source)

Most of the above mushrooms are considered adaptogens.  Adaptogens are non-toxic – this means they don’t have harmful effects on the body and are safe to be taken for long periods of time. They produce a non-specific biological response that improves the bodies ability to resist physical, chemical, emotional and other biological stressors. They have a strong influence on the body towards homeostatic balance. This means that they move the body in the direction of a normal homeostatic set point.  If stress hormones are too high, they lower and stabilize them, and if stress hormones are too low, they raise and stabilize them.

Always consult your health practitioner or naturopath, especially if you are pregnant, nursing or chronically ill before trying medicinal mushrooms.

Tribulus: (1)

7. PARSLEY DETOX SHAKE

If you have a big event planned, this is the perfect beverage to help you reduce any excess water weight.

The parsley, cucumber and celery all work as a diuretic. The lemon and ginger are powerfully anti-inflammatory and add a great zing to the shake.

• 2 cups parsley, chopped
• 2 cups cucumber, chopped
• 3 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 apple, chopped
• 1 celery stick
• ¼ tsp ginger powder
• 2 cups spring water
• Blend all ingredients in a blender on high until silky smooth
• Makes 2 large servings

Parsley is packed with a mighty nutritional content with vitamins A, B, C and K. It also contains iron and potassium.  It is a natural diuretic and protects against water retention and bloating without depleting potassium stores.

Parsley has been noted to support against a variety of diseases including atherosclerosis, asthmas, diabetes and colon cancer.

It is high in vitamin C, which is a vital nutrient in neutralizing free radicals and oxidative stress in the body.

SOUPS

8. ORGANIC VEGETABLE BROTH SOUP

• Vegetable broth
• Onions
• Garlic
• Celery
• Cilantro
• Carrots
• Light seasoning: Salt, pepper, cayenne or rosemary

You can consume with vegetables or just drink the broth and set the vegetables aside for making veggie burgers and other things. If you are fasting this broth is a great way to get your minerals!

We already described the health benefits of carrots and celery in the Juice section above, so let’s discuss the benefits of garlic, onion and and cilantro:

Cilantro contains vitamin K and small amounts of folate, potassium, manganese, and choline, as well as the antioxidants beta-carotene, beta-cryptoxanthin, lutein, and zeaxanthin.

It has been found to inhibit lead accumulation in rats. The study shows evidence for the use of cilantro to overcome lead and other heavy metal toxicity.

Because of its ability to chelate (bond chemicals together), cilantro is also being studied as a natural water purifier.  Cilantro’s antibacterial, anti-fungal and heavy metal chelation factors have increased its use in ‘detoxification’ juices, soups and smoothies.  (Sources 1, 2)

Garlic has been known for it antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory affects on the body, mainly due to Allicin, an active ingredient in garlic. Garlic may increase blood flow through the body, and most surgeons advise not eating garlic prior to surgery due to its anti-coagulating affects. The increase in blood flow can benefit the circulation, the heart, lungs and brain by increasing nutrient delivery and flow. Due to these properties garlic tends to have an overall affect on the body and increase energy levels.

Onions are actually amazing for electrolyte balance and mineralizing the body. They are low in calorie yet high in vitamins and minerals. Onions are high in Vitamin C, B5, B6, potassium, folate and assist in iron absorption. (Source)

9. BLENDED GREEN SUPERFOOD SOUP

• 1 cup green kale
• 1 cup broccoli
• 1 cup cilantro
• 1 cup parsley
• ½ cup cucumber
• ½ avocado
• ½ cup chopped celery
• ½ clove garlic
• 1 tablespoon kelp powder
• Himalayan salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• Place all ingredients in blender or Vitamix and blend until creamy smooth.
• Top with nori, ground pumpkin seeds and/or cilantro sprigs.

Check out our blog post on Bitter Greens for more information on the health benefits of this soup. You can also refer to the celery juice section, above.

If you enjoyed this 18th step in Dr S’s 20 Step Detox Program, make sure to:

• Subscribe to be notified of future posts
• Check out the first post in the series to read the full list of 20 Ways to Detox
• And download the free 67-page e-book to learn the entire program in full!

Dr. S, ND