The first few months of the year are by far the most popular months for doing cleanses and detoxes. Most people look at January as a good time to turn over a new leaf and start taking care of themselves. And while no one would disagree that doing a good cleanse every 3 months or so is a good thing, it doesn’t hurt to think about what you can do on a daily basis to keep all your organs functioning properly. 
There are certain ingredients in a typical whole-body cleanse that should not be taken daily. Most of these are herbal laxatives, which are much gentler than their pharmaceutical equivalents, but can still be habit-forming. Overuse of laxatives can weaken your digestive function, eventually leading to a situation where the colon is too weak to function without a laxative. It can also deplete the body of minerals and B vitamins.
Triphala is one of the oldest herbal formulas in the world. It is a combination of three ayurvedic herbs: harada, amla, and bihara. This formula is unique in that it both cleanses and tonifies the body. So even though triphala has some of the same laxative properties as other laxative herbs, it is safe to take on a daily basis. It is good for all digestive ailments from ulcers to constipation or diarrhea, but also for liver congestion and high cholesterol.
Taken along with something like psyllium or flax, which lubricate and sweep
out the colon like a broom, triphala is one of the most beneficial herb formulas that can be taken daily with no negative consequences. The powdered form of triphala is considered the best way to take it, and it can be taken alone or in formulas like Planetary Herbals Tri-Cleanse.
Some other great formulas would be Daily Gentle Cleanse from Irwin Naturals, or Rejuve Powder from Gaia Herbs. As always we are here to answer any questions you might have. Please give us a call at Willner Chemists in Atlanta (404-266-9115), or stop by so we can assist you with whatever you might need.
