The Five Channels of Elimination

Elimination of waste and toxins is as important to wellness as the quality of foods we ingest. If we are unable to properly rid our bodies of waste on a regular basis, it will be forced into the blood and lymph systems and carried to the weakest areas of the body. The result is a decrease in vitality with common problems such as headaches, fatigue, and allergies. If these problems persist over a prolonged period of time, the disease process will begin.

1. THE BOWELS
Problems – Constipation, Diverticulitis, Prolapse of the transverse colon, Rectal Cancer, Haemorrhoids, Colitis, Irritable Bowel, Diarrhea.
Treatment –
·Drink plenty of water
·Castor oil packs
·Cleansing Diets
·Hydrotherapy
·Psyllium Husks, Olive oil (1 tsp)*
·Enemas, Colon Wash
·Herbs
·Adequate fibre intake

* not to be taken for more than 6 weeks as a dependency may follow.

2. THE LUNGS
The lungs do not have to be actively treated unless a chronic condition persists. Problems – Bronchitis, Asthma, Excess mucous, Breathing difficulties.
Treatment ·Eliminate or reduce exposure to pollutants (ie: smoke)
·Dairy-free, alkaline diet
·Body work (massage), breathing exercises, yoga
·Support other eliminative channels
·Breath fresh air – use ionizers and air purifiers
·Herbs – Marshmallow, mullein, slippery elm

3. THE KIDNEYS
The kidneys filter the blood and excrete excess water and waste in the form of urine. Problems – Depression, lower back pain, scanty urination, frequent urination, dark urine, restlessness at night, headaches, edema.
Treatment
·Herbs – uva, ursi, buchu, cliers, juniper
·Reflexology
·Poultices
·Drink plenty of water – 2 liters per day
·Massage
·Cranberry, celery and parsley juice
·Cleansing Diet

4. THE LYMPH
Lymph glands are found in the neck, underarm, groin and solar plexus areas of the body. The lymphatic fluid flushes the body and acts as a drainage system for toxins and waste. The body “flushes” these by-products through body movement, which is another reason why exercise is so important. Problems – tonsillitis, appendicitis, adenoid problems, growths, lumps, cysts.
Treatment
·Vigorous exercise
·Massage
·Juice Cleanse
·Adequate fluid intake – 2 litres of water per day
·Eliminate or decrease wheat and dairy intake
·Herbs
·Colon cleanse
·Detoxification

5. THE SKIN
The skin is one of our best eliminative organs.
Problems – acne, warts, psoriasis, eczema
Treatment -
·Skin brushing - sweep a natural bristle brush over dry skin before showering. Start at the feet and take 5-10 minutes working your way up the body. Skin may feel a little tender at first, but gradually you will find it invigorating.
·Epsom salt bath - available from all pharmacists
·Herbs – yarrow, catnip, prickly ash, clivers, red clover, sasparilla
·Saunas
·Sunbathing
·Exercise
·Fenugreek Tea
·Natural fibre bedding and clothing