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| 1. Intracellular, the interplay of electrolyte functions and the diffusion of chemical ions across the cell membrane (such as lymph glands). Each cell goes through a process of utilizing what it needs for energy and what it needs to detoxify. Cells detoxify into the lymph and blood systems. Herbs referred to as lymphatics and blood purifiers fall into this category. Thuja and red root are examples. |
| 2. Organismic, intermediate metabolism (such as liver detoxification). Some examples of herbs that assist the liver (as well as the kidneys and spleen) in detoxification include the popular hepatic bitter herbs, dandelion and celandine, both of which have tumor-fighting ability. Dandelion is an amazing plant that heals and provides nutrition. While it is sad that so many chemical toxins are directed at ridding our lawns of this wonderful herb, the good news is that, with all of our efforts to destroy this plant, it triumphs and remains with us, offering its healing properties. |
| 3. Organs of excretion, the elimination of unusable end products and chemical wastes from the kidneys, bowels, skin, and lungs. Some examples are nettles and horsetail, which support the kidneys; butternut, pectin, and a trio of plants used in Ayurvedic medicine, called triphala; and diaphoretic plants including elder, yarrow, and boneset, which enhance elimination through the skin. |
| Each step of metabolism involves an understanding of the nervous system. What is the balance between the parasympathetic (anabolic) and the sympathetic (catabolic) nervous systems, and how does this relate to the breakdown and excretion of waste materials? Eliminative functions are often thought of in terms of the kidneys and large bowel but, in fact, problems of detoxification and the body's ability to eliminate waste is more complex. Some of the indications that help determine the most appropriate herbs for an individual's protocol include: |
| 1. The average level of body temperature. Many cancer patients have a subnormal temperature that contributes to their illness and inability to get well. A basal metabolic temperature reading taken before getting out of bed in the morning provides important information. |
| 2. The degree of tissue hydration. A parasympathetic individual will urinate frequently during the day, more than once during the night, and will usually also experience low blood pressure, dry skin, and low levels of aldosterone, cortisol, and perhaps DHEA. |
| 3. Functional organ state. If the patient shows over-relaxation or overcontraction, this indicates the need to use herbal stimulants or relaxants. For |
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