Spring body cleansing: Will CBD help with detoxification?

Spring body cleansing

 

If you're feeling tired and congested after the winter, it's important to give your body time to recover and detoxify. Cleansing the body is a great way to restore mental and physical health. Awaken the freshness and lightness within you and kick-start your body with a spring detox. Will CBD help you with your cleanse? We'll tell you in the article.

What is a detox?

Detox or detoxification is actually a cleansing of the body. In many cultures, it has been performed for centuries to promote optimal health. Our body naturally detoxifies itself through several organs that work synergistically to neutralize and eliminate toxins in order to keep the blood and cells free of impurities. 

There are 6 major organs involved in the body's detoxification activities:

  • The liver or "master detox gland" - cleanses the blood and breaks down everything both bad and good that enters the body, including drugs, alcohol and nutrients.
  • Kidneys - filter fluids and excrete unnecessary waste through urine.
  • Small and large intestine - breaks down food, facilitates nutrient absorption and excretes other unnecessary substances.
  • Lymph - responsible for healthy immune function, collects and excretes all cellular "waste".
  • Lungs - filter impurities through respiration.
  • Skin - filters impurities through sweat.

The question then becomes, "Why do we need to detox?" Because by doing so, we can promote our health and make it easier for the body to cleanse. It may be that there are too many toxins in the body and the body itself cannot keep up with the cleansing process. This can happen, for example, if toxins build up in the tissues of the detoxifying organs or an infection occurs that causes the impurities to not filter (detoxify) properly. 

On a daily basis, our bodies can be exposed to toxins such as:

  • heavy metals in food and water
  • environmental pollution
  • pesticides in food
  • chemical food additives in processed foods
  • cigarette smoke
  • chemicals in vaping
  • solar radiation
  • use and abuse of alcohol and other drugs
  • use and abuse of prescription drugs

There are also factors that make detoxification difficult and may cause the cleanse to be ineffective. These include: 

  • chronic high stress
  • weakened immunity
  • sedentary lifestyle
  • frequent infections

 

A woman takes a portion of fruit to promote body cleansing

What causes slow lymph?

In the context of detoxification, we must also mention the lymph. The lymph, or lymphatic system, can be described as an intricate network of specialized blood vessels that move lymphatic fluid, from the tips of the toes to the top of the head and into centralized lymph nodes, which helps to regulate balance in the body. Lymphatic fluid is a body fluid that contains primarily white blood cells (lymphocytes).

The lymphatic system collects and removes cellular "waste" such as white blood cells, viruses, toxins, bacteria and other molecular debris from every tissue in the body. And because all cells create waste as a "byproduct" during their daily processes, the lymph plays an absolutely vital role.

If the lymphatic system and fluid flow is not functioning well, various bodily processes can be slowed down, manifesting in such things as chronic headaches and inflammation, fatigue, swollen skin, swollen and stiff joints, and brain fog.

Disease is the main cause of this slowing down, as it requires more cellular waste to be disposed of. 

Benefits of detoxifying the body

If you create a detoxification program that is tailored to your needs, you will strengthen your health on many levels:

  • You stimulate your liver to process toxins more efficiently
  • Relieve the digestive organs, leading to more efficient digestion
  • Support bowel movement
  • Promote efficient absorption of nutrients
  • Promote circulation of important nutrients in the bloodstream
  • Get rid of impurities more easily through increased sweating
  • Restore energy in both body and mind

Purify the body: Basic information

Guided detoxification (detox treatment) is a manual process that can be used to rid the body of excess toxins. Typical detoxification regimens are diets based on a light and healthy diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, where you eliminate sugar, alcohol and caffeine from your diet. 

It's up to you which way you choose to cleanse your body. Fruit and vegetable juices and cleansing herbal blends and teas are popular. A very common method is a short period of fasting with adequate fluid intake, followed by a period of eating whole or raw foods and beverages, after which it is usual to return to your normal daily routine. Detox programmes can last as little as 1-3 days or as long as a few weeks.

If you have never tried a detox before, consult your doctor. Tell him or her your detox plan (number of days, how you will hydrate and eat) and consult with him or her about nutritional or herbal supplements and how you will change your usual activities during the detox, etc.

Generally a detox plan includes rest, cleansing and nourishing the body. Meditation, frequent time outdoors in nature, regular exercise, dry brushing, yoga or even sauna can also help cleanse the body and mind. 

 

How to play sports and detoxify the body in spring

Simple tips to detoxify the body

As we've already covered, there are multiple ways you can approach detoxification. We're going to look at simple steps for daily detoxification that aren't difficult and can be applied immediately:

  • Indulge in a colorful plant-based diet and eat real whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds and legumes. 
  • If possible, choose organic foods above all.
  • Avoid all processed foods and sweets.
  • Avoid or reduce wheat, dairy, alcohol and caffeine.
  • Drink at least 2 litres of room temperature water daily. Alkaline water, which has a higher pH, suppresses free radicals and reduces inflammation, is also recommended.
  • Eat meat that comes from organic farming, if it is difficult for your digestion to digest, focus on eating vegetable protein or fish.
  • Get moving, get at least 30 minutes of physical activity a day. Exercise helps to stimulate the body's natural detoxification processes by speeding up circulation, helping to flush toxins out of the body more efficiently, and also helps to speed up metabolism. Light hiking, dancing, walking, yoga or tai-chi, for example, are suitable.
  • Make sure you sleep well and follow the rules of sleep hygiene. Try to sleep at least 7-9 hours a day, ideally in loose clothing, to allow lymphatic fluids to move as freely as possible. The body naturally undergoes a major detoxification process during the night between 10pm and 2am. Hemnia Sleep functional patches can help to improve the quality of sleep.
  • Practice daily dry brushing. This method has long been used for lymphatic drainage and to improve fluid flow. The pressure on the skin puts pressure on the tissues, helping to push fluid through the lymphatic system. Dry brushing is traditionally done first thing in the morning or before a shower. Choose a brush with natural bristles or a loofah.
  • Incorporate a sauna or steam. Gentle sweating helps speed up the release of toxins.
  • Harness the power of herbs and other natural remedies.
  • Try incorporating CBD.

Can CBD help with body cleansing?

CBD (cannabidiol) is a natural cannabinoid that has no psychoactive effect and is growing in popularity due to its therapeutic potential. CBD can promote feelings of relaxation, improve mood, and can also promote sleep, helping the body fight hormonal imbalances and free radicals. 

Much of the effects of cannabinoids come from how they work with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is found inside our bodies. The ECS helps regulate homeostasis and is involved in many physiological processes such as sleep, mood, pain perception, cognitive function, motor coordination, appetite, immunity and metabolism. According to a number of studies, CBD and other cannabinoids appear to help bring the body back into balance.

Current knowledge suggests that CBD affects various organs and functions in the body, including:

  • the immune system
  • hormonal detoxification (symptoms of hormonal imbalance include eczema, night sweats, hot flashes, headaches, mood swings and weight gain)
  • restoring gut health
  • improving kidney, liver and digestive tract function
  • pain relief
  • relieve anxiety
  • support for insomnia

A 2020 study suggested that CBD may have antioxidant effects, with increased intake of antioxidants being one way to naturally detoxify the body.

In 2020, a study published in the journal Cannabis Cannabinoid Res looked at the effect of CBD on the immune system and its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. The study suggested that CBD may suppress immune system activity in the treatment of inflammatory conditions where it is desirable to dampen an overreactive immune system.

Although more research is needed, there is growing evidence that CBD may contribute to the antioxidant power we need to be healthy.

 

A woman holds a hemp leaf and a bottle of CBD oil that can help detoxify the body

How to detox with CBD?

Cannabidiol can help with detoxification by addressing some of the causes of toxins in the body, such as poor sleep or high stress levels. And unlike many commercial detox products, it is completely natural. 

CBD oils and other hemp-based products come from industrial hemp. Not sure what CBD products to choose when cleansing your body? You have several options, namely:

If you're inexperienced with CBD, the best way to figure out how much CBD you need is to start with a low dose and then gradually increase it. There is no one-size-fits-all measure as the amount needed depends on a lot of factors such as health, body proportions and sensitivity. 

Once you recognize how much CBD you need per day, continue to stick to your regimen for at least 2 or 3 weeks to allow the cannabidiol to work regularly throughout your body.

Tip: Get inspired by our recipes with Hemnia CBD oils:

Is CBD good for the liver?

Some studies have suggested that CBD may be beneficial for the liver, even if the liver is damaged due to an unhealthy lifestyle. 

For example, a 2021 study published in the peer-reviewed journal Frontiers in Pharmacology reported that CBD has antioxidant properties and mitigates some liver damage caused by excessive alcohol use and high-fat diets.

The same year, another study was published that compared the prevalence of elevated liver tests in adults who self-administered CBD with that in the general adult population. The study suggested that self-medication with CBD is not associated with a higher prevalence of elevated liver tests, and most elevated liver tests are likely due to the conditions/medications for which individuals take CBD.

Overview of hemp products for spring detox

Products

Description

How to use

Hemp Seeds

Hemp seeds are a source of protein (all essential amino acids) and essential fatty acids, minerals and vitamins.

They can be added to morning muesli or smoothies, salads and savoury dishes, added to baking, cooked or just munched on.

Hemp oil

The oil contains an ideal ratio of omega-3, omega-6 and omega-9 unsaturated fatty acids.

It is suitable for salads, smoothies and soups.  It is also used in cosmetics; it is suitable for massages. It balances the pH of the skin and restores the natural protective microfilm. 

Herbal mixtures with cannabis

The tea has a positive effect on the nervous system, calms and relaxes, can help with insomnia and migraines, and aids digestion.

Just pour 2-3 teaspoons of the herbal mixture over boiling water and let it sit for 5 minutes. 



Hemp protein

Hemp protein contains up to 50% complete complex plant protein, which is even comparable to animal sources (it has over 90% digestibility).

It can be used in its pure form or added to spreads, porridges and smoothies.

Overview of herbs and other natural products 

Milk thistle

Cleanses the liver, supports digestion and, by strengthening the liver, increases overall mental well-being. It is also used to treat liver diseases such as mononucleosis and jaundice.

Green foods

Tablets and drinks made from chlorella and green barley cleanse the body and replenish biologically active substances such as vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.

Quinoa

This is a gluten-free grain that is rich in protein and easy to digest.

Fermented foods

Fermented products promote digestion and are low in calories, so they are also good for weight loss. Sauerkraut contains a lot of fibre and vitamin C. 

Red clover

This herb has the ability to filter and remove toxins from the bloodstream, has a tonic effect on the lymph and also stimulates the liver, which can promote bile production, and also contributes to the detoxification process.

Ground ivy

The above-ground part of ivy promotes cleansing and liver function, and aids in the removal of waste products through the urinary tract and kidneys. It can help with spring allergies that trigger mucus, and can contribute to detoxification from heavy metals (lead).

Dandelion

The whole plant, i.e. flowers, leaves and root can be used to support and nourish the body. The root is probably the most used part of the plant in herbal medicine, containing inulin, which nourishes beneficial bacteria in the gut.  The flowers are high in antioxidant flavonoids and the spring leaves contain potassium, zinc and vitamins A, B and C.

Stinging nettle

Nettles have diuretic properties and give additional support to the kidneys in removing waste products. They are rich in minerals and vitamins such as calcium, iron, boron, chlorophyll and vitamin. They are also used to relieve inflammation, arthritis, eczema, acne and psoriasis.

Turmeric

Curcumin, which is found in turmeric, has protective properties and can suppress oxidative damage caused by solvents, viruses, alcohol or drugs.

Burdock root

This herb has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years to detoxify the blood and strengthen circulation. It is also used to remove lymphatic congestion and enlarged lymph nodes.

Detox Tea

Common ingredients in these teas include:


  • green tea
  • milk thistle seeds
  • schisandra berries
  • ginger root
  • licorice root
  • fennel seeds

Side effects in detox to lose weight

Since toxins are also stored in fat cells, it is possible to experience side effects when detoxing to lose weight. Common side effects such as headaches, indigestion, muscle and joint pain, and fatigue can occur.

If severe symptoms occur, it is recommended to immediately suspend the detox program and adjust to a more moderate approach.

 

Spring weight loss

For whom is detoxification not suitable?

People with medical conditions, including pregnant or breastfeeding women, or those diagnosed with a medical condition (e.g. diabetes) must be under the supervision of a GP during detoxification.

It is important to be vital and have enough energy during the body cleanse so that the organymus can cope with any side effects. Experts do not recommend a detoxification program to those who suffer from repeated illnesses, extremely low energy or high stress.

Detox is by no means a quick fix for serious health problems. A consultation with a physician prior to starting will help to identify and prioritize key areas to focus on, such as lymph, liver, digestion, weight loss or substance detox.

Factors such as age, previous health, goals and current toxic load will determine the level and length of detoxification needed.

Body cleansing: Feeling fresh and light

There is no better way to welcome spring than to begin a detoxification ritual. Not only will it help you put a stop to spring fatigue, but it will also kick-start your body to feel light and fresh again. 

Use this spring as a fresh start and an opportunity to detoxify your body. And try incorporating Hemnia CBD oils into your body cleanse, as they are natural, can help reduce toxins in the body and promote overall mental well-being.

 

Author: Patricie Mikolášová, translation by AI

 

Photo: Shutterstock

Short and simple:

  1. Hemnia does not and cannot replace the professional care of your doctor.
  2. Hemnia products are not medicines (or medicinal products), so please do not approach them as such.
  3. Hemnia offers cannabis products, but don't look for any narcotic or psychotropic substances here. We do not offer or recommend them.

Read the full text of the disclaimer here .