This toxin build-up slowly poisons the body. Early symptoms, such as bad breath, abdominal bloating, constipation, fatigue and lethargy, intolerance to rich/fatty foods, food sensitivities, headaches, acne or spots, cellulite, weight gain, gallstones or episodes of gallbladder inflammation; all of which may eventually lead to chronic ailments. Toxins that are unable to leave our system may cause the body to reach the state of degeneration where the vital force is so diminished that the breakdown of tissue is stronger than the inherent regenerative power. Reason dictates that we must cleanse - then nourish and strengthen the integrity of the whole organism so that it will reverse itself through the stages from which it originated.

There are many ways of detoxing or cleansing the system; notably, fasting, special diets, exercise, sauna, herbal teas, skin brushing, juicing, bathing and the latest - detox patches.

Commencing a detox programme vigorously with methods such as juicing, fasting or drinking water may result in a mere 'stirring up' of toxins; which then become re-embedded when the short regime is over. The usual uncomfortable healing crises symptoms such as fatigue and headaches as the toxins are shaken up into the blood stream, unnecessarily put the body through additional stress.

Detoxing in this brisk way is not recommended during winter, for children, the weak and already stressed out individuals; even though a real detox may be needed.

It may thus be wiser to introduce a gentler detoxification process. The application of Detox Patches at night whilst one sleeps achieve a manageable, effective detoxification process to which one can add simple healthful changes.

Detox patches are a groundbreaking detoxification method which work on a combination of healing processes bringing about real results and are easy to use. No willpower, special preparations, or discomfort are required. The method is gradual and yet deep cleansing for the body. It is thus suitable for children, people in old age, those that are stressed as well as for all the 'in betweens' who wish to re-activate the body's healing response, prevent deterioration or counter-act specific ailments. The patches further provide visual confirmation of detoxification occurring - which is most encouraging.

Detox patches are patches that are placed on the sole of the feet at night when the body is in repair mode. The main ingredients are Tourmaline, Eucalpytus Wood Vinegar and Agaricus Mushroom; together with other natural herbal ingredients. Like the old-fashioned poultice, a patch is placed on the sole of the foot where toxins are absorbed into the patch.

Tourmaline is best known as one of the only minerals to emit far infra-red rays, discharge permanent electricity on earth and is also a natural source of negative ions (antioxidants). It creates resonance in the body that vibrates at the same frequency as water which has a stabilizing and cleansing effect. It is known to improve circulation, relieve stress, increase mental alertness and assist in strengthening the immune system.

Eucalyptus Wood Vinegar has an ancient history. In Japan, wood was burnt and the art of making charcoal by wood distillation was developed. Emitted from the charcoal kiln, smoke billows upward, and when cooled and condensed; a thick brown/black liquid results. This liquid is raw pyroligneous acid (wood vinegar). This acid has been shown to warm the body, activate the skin, moisturize and act as an antibacterial. Once dehydrated for inclusion in the detox patch, the tree sap absorbs, detoxifies and sterilizes. This is the basis of its ability to assist the reduction of body toxicity. The Eucalyptus tree is probably the most powerful antiseptic in its class. Ozone is formed upon exposure to air and contains a proven disinfectant action destroying unhealthy flora and microbes.

Agaricus Semotus Mushrooms from Brazil contain beta-glucan and polysaccarides are one of the most powerful enhancing agents for the immune system. Beta Glucans are known as a potent factor in natural cancer control.

The patches are placed on the sole of the feet. Feet are known as "the second heart" in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as they hold not only the reflex of the actual heart but all the other body's organs. When placed on the sole of the feet, the patches
-emit far infrared rays
-donate anti-oxidants
-stimulate the reflexes, which in turn stimulate the actual internal body organs,
-stimulate the meridians ie the energy pathways known in TCM,
-activate acupuncture points and 7000 nerve endings found in the feet.

The combination of these processes creates the detoxification effect in the body and an activation of the body's own healing response. The patches will then turn from a cream colour to a darker colour and become saturated (thus giving visual confirmation of a detox). Patches may also be placed on body parts such as the knees or the back for effective pain relief. Detoxification will only occur from the sole of the foot.

Gentle detoxification in this manner takes place for a recommended 5-15 nights depending on a person's state of health and wellbeing. It has been found that people with debilitating arthritis or gout have had tremendous relief after consistent use of the patches. Diabetes sufferers (even those born insulin dependant) have experienced a significant drop in blood sugar levels, suffered less neuropathy and foot pain has eased to remarkable levels. Symptoms of toxicity have found to be either greatly reduced or eliminated after a programme of detox-patch use. It is recommended that a maintenance program of patch use be continued so as to keep toxins at a manageable level at one pair of patches used every 4 to 7 days.

Once gradual detoxification in this manner is completed it is then a lot more comfortable for the body to undergo a more rigorous detox program of juicing or fasting; should this be required.

Detoxification in this way enables one to sleep better, improves energy levels, reduces aches and pains, leads to decreased bloatedness and fluid retention, improved mental clarity and memory, a feeling of rejuvenation and a sense of peace and calmness.

In order to assist detoxification it is advised to eliminate as many external toxic factors as possible by promoting a healthy diet - the more natural the better! Remember that when you choose natural, organic foods you are assisting in the reduction of these external toxins. Eat whole, well washed foods with skin for fibre; support your liver by eating less fatty foods such as red meat and dairy; keep away from caffeinated drinks; and reduce your intake of processed foods and alcohol. Gentle exercise such as walking and skin brushing is also extremely beneficial in moving the lymph system which has no heart and needs the massage of the brush or moving muscles to move the lymph. Deep breathing is also extremely beneficial in eliminating gaseous toxins from the body and providing oxygen, a vital factor in the detox process. Drinking pure fluids such as herbal teas or clean water is also beneficial. It should be noted, however, that too much water is not a good thing as the kidneys eliminate not only water and toxins in urine but also vital minerals 1.5 to 2 liters of water daily is thus sufficient.

The Detox Patch is a real solution in today's chemical world of stress and hurried lifestyles. It provides all the benefits of a cleansing programme in a natural, safe and easy manner for all ages.

References: Detox Handbook Dr Jennifer Harper ISBN0-7513-3971-7
Ultimate Health Dr John Briffa ISBN 0-7181-4498-8
Niwa Institute for Immunology, Japan Int J Biometeriol 1993 Sep; (3) 133-8