Detoxification

Detoxification is a complex physiological process understood through diverse medical paradigms. In Western medicine, detoxification often refers to medically supervised programs for substance withdrawal, focusing on neutralizing and eliminating toxic substances (Saitz, R., Alcohol Health & Research World, 1998).

Conversely, holistic traditions like Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda emphasize multi-organ detoxification—targeting the kidneys, liver, lungs, and colon—to restore homeostasis (Kiefer, D., & Pantuso, T., American Family Physician, 2002). These approaches employ various methods such as sauna, fasting, and herbal medicines. Noteworthy detoxifying herbs like red clover, echinacea, and dandelion are characterized by their bitter and cooling properties, believed to facilitate the body's natural elimination pathways (Winston, D., & Maimes, S., 2007). The overarching goal across all paradigms is the restoration of physiological equilibrium.