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Natural Awakenings Greater Boston - Rhode Island

Sustainable Detox: Simple Daily Practices That Actually Stick

May 30, 2025 09:31AM ● By Dee Davidson, FDN-P

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As interest in holistic wellness grows, more people are seeking sustainable ways to support their body’s natural detox systems. Fortunately, detoxification doesn’t have to mean extreme diets, harsh cleanses or expensive programs. In fact, gentle and consistent practices are often far more effective in the long term.

Every day, the body processes environmental toxins—from pollutants in the air to chemicals in household products and processed foods. Rather than relying on quick fixes, the key lies in small, daily habits that nourish the body’s detox pathways: the liver, kidneys, skin and lymphatic system.

Here are eight practical and approachable strategies to help support detoxification in a way that feels doable—and actually lasts:

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1. Morning Mineral Water Boost

Begin the day with two glasses of room-temperature water, each with a pinch of high-quality mineral salt and a squeeze of lemon. This rehydrates cells, supports digestion and gives the liver a gentle nudge after an overnight fast.



2. Cook with Detoxifying Herbs
Herbs such as cilantro, parsley, dandelion, milk thistle, turmeric and ginger are known for their detox-supporting properties. These herbs enhance bile flow and assist the liver in processing toxins. Add them to soups, stews, salads or smoothies to make cleansing a natural part of meals.


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3. Sip Organic Herbal Tea

A daily cup of organic herbal tea can work wonders. Teas with ingredients such as burdock root, nettle, dandelion leaf or milk thistle help flush waste and reduce inflammation. Be sure to choose certified organic blends to avoid pesticide exposure.



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4. Sweat It Out

Whether using a traditional or infrared sauna, sweating 15 to 20 minutes three to four times a week encourages the release of heavy metals and toxins through the skin. This practice not only aids detox, but also improves circulation and skin health.




5. Dry Brush Before Showering
Dry brushing with a natural bristle brush stimulates the lymphatic system, exfoliates dead skin cells and boosts circulation. Done just before showering, it’s a simple way to support the body’s waste drainage systems.


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6. Move to Drain

The lymphatic system relies on movement—not the heart—to circulate. Light activities like walking, rebounding (mini-trampoline) or even jumping jacks help stimulate lymph flow and accelerate detoxification.



7. Overnight Castor Oil Packs
Applying an organic castor oil pack to the abdomen overnight promotes lymph flow, supports liver function and calms the nervous system. This traditional remedy has stood the test of time for good reason.


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8. Hydrate Based on Body Weight

Aim to drink one-half of one’s body weight in ounces of clean, filtered water daily (e.g., a 150-pound person would aim for 75 ounces). Hydration is essential to flush out toxins and support organs like the liver and kidneys.





These practices draw from both ancestral wisdom and modern science. They’re not quick fixes—they’re tools for building resilience, energy and long-term well-being. The beauty lies in their simplicity: no overwhelm, no gimmicks, just daily rhythms that the body will appreciate. In a culture often drawn to extremes, this balanced approach to detoxification is refreshingly sustainable—and that’s what truly makes it effective.

Dee Davidson is a Functional Health Practitioner, hormone health expert and an advocate for personalized health and integrative health care. For those interested in learning more about what functional lab testing can do, listen to her Confidently Balance Your Hormones podcast or schedule a discovery call by visiting ConfidentlyLoveYourself.com.