To rid itself of its toxic burden, the body uses a combination of organs and organ systems collectively dubbed the seven channels of elimination. The lungs, liver, lymphatic system, kidneys, skin, blood and bowel (or colon) work together to filter and eliminate toxin substances and waste, but because of the increasing number of both internal and external toxins to which our bodies are exposed daily, our cleansing organs are often overwhelmed. Fortunately, natural internal cleansing formulas that address each of the seven channels of elimination can support the body's natural detoxification processes.

Periodic cleansing, coupled with a daily maintenance program, is an essential part of maintaining the body's overall health. If you have never cleansed before, you may benefit from beginning with a gentle, total-body cleanse formulated specifically for first-time cleansers. Such products generally contain whole herbs, which are milder than deep-cleansing herbal extracts, as well as a blend of enzymes and nutrients to help enhance the absorption of the formulation. More often than not, first-time cleansing formulas will include a gentle colon cleanse to support healthy elimination.

For those familiar with cleansing, an advanced total-body cleanse is often the next step in the detoxification process. However, those with specific concerns may want to begin with a more targeted cleanse that is better suited to their individual needs. Advanced internal cleansing formulas will typically contain concentrated herbal extracts in addition to whole herbs and minerals for a more potent, deep-acting cleanse. They may last up to 30 days and are designed to support the digestive system by promoting healthy, regular bowel movements.

Following a total-body cleanse, targeted internal cleansing formulas are designed to provide support to specific organs or areas of the body. Many experts recommend beginning with a natural kidney cleanse to support kidney, bladder and urinary tract health. While a healthy urinary tract is sterile (bacteria-free), irritation may occur when bacteria from the digestive tract are allowed to grow in the urinary tract and bladder. A blend of whole herbs and minerals is often an effective way to help cleanse the kidneys, bladder and urinary tract. Herbs such as cranberry and uva ursi help fight bacteria and promote a sterile environment, and herbs such as stinging nettle, cornsilk, parsley leaf and dandelion extract provide powerful cleansing support.

Decades of industrial and personal misuse have led to an unfortunate buildup of heavy metals in our environment. The most common are lead, mercury and arsenic, which have been used for centuries in everything from paint to pressure-treated wood, and which can cause serious health problems if allowed to accumulate in the human body. Targeted cleansing formulas that contain a combination of herbs, vitamins, minerals and amino acids may provide effective support by assisting the body's natural cleansing processes.

Your body's largest internal organ, the liver performs countless functions that are essential to overall health. It filters toxins from one liter of blood every minute and processes toxins and waste before they are sent to the kidneys and colon for elimination. In addition to following a healthy diet and drinking plenty of water, a targeted internal cleansing formula designed to support the liver can significantly benefit this vital organ. A targeted liver cleanse that contains a combination of herbs, antioxidants and amino acids can help support healthy liver detoxification.

Because a build-up of toxins and waste in the body can create an opportune environment for parasites to grow and thrive, a cleansing formula that specifically targets parasites is the next step in an effective overall detoxification program. According to the Centers for Disease Control, roughly 76 million people contract parasites from food every year, and scientists estimate that half of the world's population will be infected with some type of parasitic infection by the year 2025. A beneficial cleansing formula that targets parasites should include a broad spectrum of herbs and nutraceuticals designed to support a healthy balance of intestinal microbes. Enzyme supplements may also help break down foods that can provide food for nourishment for parasites if left undigested.

Maintaining a healthy bacterial balance in your intestines is essential to your health, as nearly three-quarters of your immune system is located in your digested tract. Ideally, there should be approximately 80% good bacteria and 20% percent harmful bacteria in your intestines. However, factors such as diet, stress, illness, and exposure to toxins can affect that healthy environment can result in yeast overgrowth, which can lead to a variety of health issues. That's why a cleansing formula that focuses on supporting a beneficial balance of intestinal flora plays a key role in total-body detoxification. Choose a cleanse made with natural ingredients (such as uva ursi, neem leaf and olive leaf) that is designed to be taken in harmony with your normal daily activity.

Finally, because your body works constantly to cleanse itself of toxins, a daily cleansing formula designed to assist all seven channels of elimination and promote healthy digestion is the last step in a comprehensive total-body detoxification program. Rather than providing a purgative effect, such daily formulas offer gentle, nutritive assistance. An ideal daily cleanse should include herbs, nutraceuticals, antioxidants and amino acids, as well as beneficial enzymes to enhance the absorption of the natural ingredients.

While exposure to harmful chemicals may be unavoidable in an increasingly toxic world, there are ways in which you can combat toxins and support your body's natural detoxification processes. The right internal cleansing products, combined with a healthy diet and exercise, can be the first step toward a lifetime of good health.