Detox Teas You Can Make at Home

Discover a range of detox teas approved by registered dietitians (RDs), made from natural ingredients and evidence-based formulas.

The term "detox" has gained popularity due to its association with eliminating "toxins" and "impurities" from the body that may be harmful and lead to health issues. When we talk about "detox" teas, foods, and diets, we are often referring to products and regimens that claim to cleanse the body, improve health, and aid in weight loss. Jerry Bailey, DC, LAc, a certified nutritionist, acupuncturist, chiropractor, and functional medicine physician at Lakeside Holistic Health, explains that detox teas are believed to enhance the body's natural cleansing process by supporting the liver, kidneys, digestive system, and skin, which are the body's primary detoxification systems.

Detox teas are gaining popularity because they contain herbs that support the body's natural detoxification process. They complement daily HUM supplements, such as HUM's Daily Cleanse, for a comprehensive wellness approach.

How does our body detox?

Our body naturally detoxifies through multiple phases. "Phase one detoxification in the liver involves the cytochrome P450 enzyme, which converts toxins into an 'activated intermediate' substance," explains functional dietitian and clinical herbalist Jenna Volpe, RDN, LD, CLT. This phase requires specific nutrients and antioxidants like B vitamins, amino acids, and glutathione. "Phase two involves conjugation, where toxins are converted into neutral substances and eliminated from the body," she adds. Certain nutrients like B vitamins, amino acids, antioxidants, and minerals are essential for this phase.

There is also a phase three of detoxification where the gut helps remove waste products from the liver and gallbladder.

Are there other ways to detox?

While some health professionals believe in letting the body handle detoxification on its own, others suggest supporting the body's natural systems for overall health and well-being. Certain herbs have been known for centuries to support the body's detoxification processes by working in synergy with existing systems, enhancing cleansing and maintaining health.

Drinking herbal detox teas can be an effective way to support the body's natural detoxification pathways and reduce the toxic burden on the liver and kidneys by neutralizing free radicals in the body.

The benefits of detox teas

Detox teas offer a practical and enjoyable way to enhance the body's natural detoxification processes, promoting overall health and well-being.

May help support healthy digestion

Many detox teas contain ingredients like ginger and dandelion root, known for aiding digestion by stimulating the production of digestive juices and bile, improving nutrient absorption, and promoting a healthier gut environment.

Pairing detox teas with HUM's Flatter Me can provide additional digestive support.

May help boost energy levels

Detox teas can help boost energy levels by eliminating toxins that may weigh down the body and impair organ function. They enhance metabolic efficiency, resulting in increased energy levels and clearer thinking.

May help enhance natural detoxification

One of the significant benefits of detox teas is their ability to facilitate the body's natural detoxification process by stimulating the liver, kidneys, and digestive tract to filter and expel toxins more effectively, maintaining a cleaner internal environment essential for overall health.

The best detox teas to try

Try these nutritionist-approved detox teas to eliminate harmful toxins from your body.

1. Ginger Turmeric Detox Tea

Ginger aids in healthy sweating and digestion, while turmeric's anti-inflammatory properties support the breakdown and reduction of toxins in the body, protecting liver cells and promoting liver health.

Ingredients:

• 1 inch fresh ginger root, minced


• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder or 1 inch turmeric root, minced


• 1 tablespoon lemon juice


• 1 teaspoon raw honey (optional)


• 1 cup of boiling water

Preparation:

• Combine minced ginger and turmeric in a tea infuser for teapot.


• Pour boiling water over the ginger and turmeric. Allow it to steep for 5-10 minutes.


• Remove the infuser or strain the tea to remove the bits of ginger and turmeric.


• Stir in lemon juice and honey to taste.


• Customization: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or a green tea bag for a caffeine boost during steeping.

2. Green Tea and Lemon Balm Detox Tea

Green tea's antioxidants neutralize free radicals, reduce oxidative stress, enhance metabolic rate, and aid in weight loss. Lemon balm soothes stress and anxiety, improves digestive health, and supports liver function.

Ingredients:

• 1 green tea bag or 1 tablespoon loose green tea leaves


• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon balm leaves, or 1 teaspoon dried


• 1 teaspoon lemon juice


• Honey or stevia to sweeten (optional)


• 1 cup of boiling water

Preparation:

• Place the green tea and lemon balm leaves in a tea infuser or directly in a cup.


• Pour hot water over the tea leaves and allow them to steep for 3-5 minutes.


• Remove the infuser or strain to remove loose leaves.


• Add lemon juice and sweetener to taste, stirring well.

3. Dandelion Burdock Tea

Dandelion root helps protect liver function and reduce oxidative stress, supporting overall liver health and detoxification.

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon dried dandelion leaves


• 1 teaspoon dried dandelion roots


• 1 teaspoon dried burdock root


• Optional: 1-inch slice of fresh ginger root


• 24 ounces (3 cups) of filtered/purified water or spring water

Directions:

• Add all ingredients to a medium stovetop pot on low to medium heat.


• Simmer for 15-20 minutes, then strain.


• Drink 1 to 3 cups daily before meals to support digestion and detoxification.


• Store any leftover tea in a sealed glass container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

How to incorporate detox teas into your daily routine

Follow these tips to add detox teas to your daily routine effectively.

1. Consult a qualified expert

Before trying new herbs, consult a healthcare practitioner trained in clinical nutrition and functional medicine to ensure safety and beneficial effects, especially if you have specific medical conditions or take medications that may interact with herbs.

2. Start slow and low

Start with the lowest dose of herbs and gradually increase under the supervision of a qualified expert to avoid adverse reactions or allergies.

3. Opt for organic, third-party tested products

Choose organic herbs to reduce exposure to chemical residues and opt for products that have been third-party tested for quality, purity, and safety.