Additionally, detoxifying teas clean the colon and the liver.  This is extremely important because as one of the liver’s prime functions is detoxification and the production of biochemicals – bile, for example – which are necessary for digestion.  The liver, by the way, is the largest gland in the human body.  Its proper functioning is vital to survival.

Herbal teas have been used for centuries not only as tonics and cleansers but for their taste and general enjoyment.  You can find them pre-made in the grocery store right next to other coffee and tea beverages or you can put together your own according to your tastes and needs.

Some classic herbal ingredients used in detox tea are:

• Chamomile – commonly used to soothe digestion, anxiety and insomnia.  It is mildly sedative.
• Ginger – historically used to calm nausea and cleanse the body via perspiration.  It is one of the most widely used herbal remedy known.
• Lemon – a vital source of vitamin C, historically used to ease rheumatism and fever.
• Lemonbalm – used to promote perspiration, relieve fever insomnia and anxiety and to ease menstrual cramping.  it is mildly sedative.
• Lemongrass – used to strengthen stomach functions and as a treatment for indigestion.  It is also used to loosen mucus and relieve headaches.  It acts as a diuretic is a mild sedative.
• Nettle – used as a whole body tonic and as a remedy for rheumatism and arthritis and as a general detoxifying agent.
• Rose hip – believed to enhance kidney function and maintain the urinary tract.  It is also used for the treatment of colds, flu, scurvy, diarrhea and gastritis.

You’ll notice that many of the ingredients listed above have sedative properties.  They are extremely mild and generally calming.  Don’t expect that consuming a tea made with each of these herbs will  knock you out.  They are as calming and sleep inducing as coffee is stimulative.

Whether you decide to make your own tea or purchase premixed blends from the store, herbal teas are a great tasting way to detoxify your body.