There are many ways to reduce inflammation in the body, including proper rest, anti-inflammatory foods, adequate movement, healthy relationships, herbs and nutritional supplements. Detoxification strategies are another important part of this process, as they help to lower the toxic load that most people bear each day. High toxicity is a trigger for the body’s inflammatory response.

The body has six primary pathways of detoxification:  the liver, colon, kidneys, lungs, lymph, and skin.  Programs providing the most anti-inflammatory support address the importance of each of these systems. Here are three of the most effective detoxification strategies:

1. Clay baths

While inflammation leads to the destruction of tissues, clay baths help to stop this destruction.  A research group in Turkey found significant reductions in pain intensity, arthritis severity index scores and pain reliever consumption among those who partook of clay bath therapy.  The researchers further remarked that clay bath treatments showed beneficial effects on cartilage stability and inflammatory reactions. This therapy has the added benefit of being very relaxing, thereby reducing the stress response associated with inflammation.

1. Far Infrared Sauna

Research shows that Far Infrared Sauna treatments can decrease the pain, stiffness, and fatigue associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Americans suffer from RA at a rate 15 times higher than Norwegians, who’ve been enjoying saunas for centuries.  The Journal of the American Medical Association states that, “Regular use of a sauna may impact a similar stress on the cardiovascular system as running, and its regular use may be as effective [at] burning calories."  This is a great option for people whose inflammation prevents them from performing regular exercise.  

1. Glutathione

People suffering from inflammatory symptoms in the digestive system and lungs have been shown to have deficiencies of glutathione in the inflamed areas of their bodies.  Known as “The Mother of All Antioxidants,” this unique molecule allows the processing of free radicals, heavy metals, and other substances that lead to chronic, inflammatory, and degenerative diseases. Glutathione can be taken in an easily absorbed liposomal form. Intravenous options also exist and allow for higher doses. 

A comprehensive plan to decrease inflammation should include at least one of these detoxification strategies. As always, it’s best to consult with a qualified practitioner in order to choose the detoxification and anti-inflammatory options that will work best for you.

Joshua Lloyd is a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine at Groton Wellness Center, located at Mill Run Plaza, 495 Main Street, in Groton. For more information call 978-449-9919 or visit GrotonWellness.com.