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Yahoo
6 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Everyone Is Talking About Detoxing. Here's What It Actually Means.
"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links." IF ANYTHING NEEDS a detox, it's social media influencers finger-wagging that it's about time you detoxed. While the idea of life with a toxin-riddled body doesn't sound good, the whole concept of a detox is a little murky. What are we trying to get rid of here and what is a detox, exactly? It's important to point this out upfront: While there are some medical uses for detoxes in certain situations (like taking activated charcoal after you've been poisoned), detoxing with the help of certain supplements or juices is kind of bogus and can be dangerous. Still, plenty of people claim that a good detox will help set you right after days of bad eating, struggling with insulin resistance, or dealing with excess weight. But before you decide to go on juice cleanse or fasting diet in the name of detoxing, there are a few things you should know. A dietitian and toxicologists break it down. There are a lot of different versions of detoxes out there, but they usually claim to help remove toxins from your body, while boosting your health and helping you lose weight, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH). What those toxins are, exactly, usually remains murky. Detoxes come in a wide range of forms, including fasting, juice cleanses, herbal remedies, supplements, colon cleanses, sauna regimens, and more. Again, there are some select medical reasons to detox. 'In traditional medicine, 'detox' may also refer to the process of weaning patients off of alcohol or other addictive substances,' says Kelly Johnson-Arbor, MD, a toxicologist at MedStar Health. 'Chelation therapy is a form of medical detoxification that involves the administration of medications to bind heavy metals or other toxins so that they can be more effectively eliminated from the human body.' But that's not what these online claims and treatments are talking about. 'Detox is not legitimate, not in the way it's sold,' says Scott Keatley, RD, co-owner of Keatley Medical Nutrition Therapy. Your body actually has its own built-in detoxification system—your liver, kidneys, lungs, digestive tract, skin, he explains. 'These work 24/7 to neutralize and eliminate harmful substances,' Keatley says. 'There's no credible evidence that a tea, juice, or supplement can enhance or speed up this process.' Jamie Alan, PhD, an associate professor of pharmacology and toxicology at Michigan State University, agrees. 'At this time, there is no scientific evidence to recommend a cleanse for most people,' she says. 'Our liver was built to remove toxins, and generally, the liver does a great job detoxifying our bodies.' At minimum, a detox may be a waste of your money. But they can also be harmful to your health. Johnson-Arbor points to a 2023 TikTok trend that encouraged people to eat or bathe in borax to ease inflammation and detox as an example. 'Borax, a laundry booster, is not meant to be consumed by humans and can cause stomach irritation, vomiting, and diarrhea when eaten,' she says. 'Bathing in borax can lead to skin rashes, irritation, and itching.' There have also been claims that having activated charcoal or n-acetylcysteine can help with an everyday detox. 'These can be effective in limiting the toxic effects of certain substances on the human body, but are unproven as general detoxification methods,' Johnson-Arbor says. 'For example, activated charcoal does not bind to alcohol or certain metals, and most oral forms of n-acetylcysteine are poorly absorbed by the human body, which limits their use for detoxification purposes.' There's probably a reason why you're even considering a detox, and that's important to explore. 'If you're feeling sluggish or 'off,' forget the gimmicks and focus on supporting your body's actual detox systems,' Keatley says. 'That means eating enough fiber from whole foods—veggies, fruits, legumes—drinking adequate water, limiting alcohol, getting sufficient sleep, and moving your body regularly.' If you feel like you need a reset, he suggests spending a week consistently eating meals that focus on lean proteins, vegetables, and whole grains with minimal added sugar versus drinking cayenne lemonade or something similar. If that doesn't do the trick, Alan recommends seeing a doctor for an evaluation. You could be dealing with symptoms of an underlying health condition, like diabetes, a thyroid issue, or an electrolyte imbalance, Johnson-Arbor says. That's not something a supplement or juice cleanse will fix. 'There are rare cases, like exposure to heavy metals or certain drugs, where clinical detox is necessary,' Keatley says. 'But that happens in hospitals, not your kitchen.' You Might Also Like The Best Hair Growth Shampoos for Men to Buy Now 25 Vegetables That Are Surprising Sources of Protein
Yahoo
04-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
U.S. Complementary and Alternative Medicine Market Competitive Landscape 2025, with Gaia Herbs, Herb Pharm, Pure Encapsulations, NOW Health Group, Nature's Way, Solgar, Twinlab, Ayush Herbs, and more
The U.S. Complementary and Alternative Medicine Market offers significant growth opportunities, driven by increased consumer interest in wellness and non-traditional medicine. Key trends include integration with conventional healthcare, rising chronic and stress-related health issues, and mainstream acceptance of therapies like herbal supplements and mindfulness practices. However, challenges such as regulatory inconsistencies and quality control issues remain. U.S. Complementary and Alternative Medicine Market Dublin, July 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "United States Complementary and Alternative Medicine Market, By Region, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2020-2030F" has been added to United States Complementary and Alternative Medicine Market was valued at USD 34.82 Billion in 2024, and is expected to reach USD 125.94 Billion by 2030, rising at a CAGR of 23.87%. The market is expanding rapidly as consumer interest in wellness-oriented lifestyles grows and individuals increasingly explore treatment options beyond traditional medicine. Therapies like acupuncture, homeopathy, naturopathy, energy healing, and aromatherapy are gaining traction across diverse demographics for managing both acute and chronic health concerns. CAM offerings are increasingly integrated with fitness memberships, corporate wellness programs, and digital health subscriptions, contributing to their mainstream acceptance. The popularity of herbal infusions, detox products, and plant-based diets further reflects a cultural pivot toward natural health solutions. According to the NCCIH's 2023 survey, approximately 40% of American adults and 12% of children use complementary therapies. CAM services are being widely incorporated into holistic clinics, hospitals, and telehealth platforms, covering modalities such as yoga, mindfulness, chiropractic care, and herbal supplementation. The younger population is adopting Reiki, sound healing, and crystal therapy, while older adults seek non-invasive methods for pain and sleep disorders. CAM visibility is amplified by wearable health tech, social media influencers, and expanded retail presence in pharmacies and online marketplaces. Key Market Drivers Increase in Chronic and Stress-Related Health Conditions The growing incidence of chronic and stress-induced health conditions is a key driver of the United States Complementary and Alternative Medicine Market. Chronic diseases like cardiovascular disorders, diabetes, arthritis, and respiratory ailments continue to rise, affecting a significant portion of the U.S. population. As of 2023, CDC data shows 6 in 10 U.S. adults live with at least one chronic condition, and 4 in 10 have two or more. Patients are increasingly turning to CAM therapies for their holistic and less invasive approach to long-term disease management. Stress-related issues are also prevalent due to modern lifestyle demands. The American Psychological Association reported that 77% of Americans frequently experience physical symptoms from stress, and 73% report psychological effects. CAM practices such as meditation, acupuncture, herbal therapy, and mindfulness are gaining popularity as non-drug alternatives for mental and emotional well-being. Clinicians are recognizing the value of integrative care models that blend conventional and complementary therapies to address both physical and emotional dimensions of health. The rising emphasis on self-care, wellness, and preventive strategies is further fueling CAM's appeal. Key Market Challenges Lack of Standardized Regulations and Quality Control One of the most significant challenges facing the U.S. CAM market is the lack of consistent regulatory frameworks and standardized quality controls. Unlike conventional pharmaceuticals, many CAM products - including herbal supplements and traditional remedies - do not undergo uniform evaluation for safety and efficacy. This regulatory inconsistency creates uncertainty for both consumers and manufacturers, limiting broader adoption and integration into mainstream healthcare. Quality assurance is another critical issue. Variability in ingredient sourcing, formulation, and production processes leads to inconsistent product quality and therapeutic outcomes. Botanical components, for example, can vary significantly in potency depending on region, harvesting practices, and processing methods. These inconsistencies raise concerns about contamination and mislabeling. The absence of robust quality standards can reduce consumer trust and expose producers to legal risks. The lack of regulatory clarity also discourages investment and innovation, delaying the development of validated, evidence-based CAM solutions. Key Market Trends Integration of CAM into Conventional Healthcare Systems A prominent trend in the U.S. CAM market is its growing integration into mainstream healthcare settings. The Department of Veterans Affairs has significantly expanded its use of Complementary and Integrative Health (CIH) practices to support pain management, mental health, and overall well-being. This move represents a broader push toward patient-centered care that includes both medical and holistic treatment options. Government-backed initiatives further reflect this integration. For instance, in 2023, the Department of Health and Human Services launched a national strategy emphasizing Food Is Medicine (FIM) programs, aligning with CAM's foundational principles. These developments signal increasing institutional support for CAM therapies as part of broader healthcare delivery models. Hospitals, insurers, and public health organizations are recognizing the value of non-invasive, cost-effective interventions in managing chronic diseases and improving patient satisfaction. This institutional adoption is expected to accelerate as more clinical data validates CAM's efficacy and safety. Key Market Players Gaia Herbs, Inc. Herb Pharm, LLC Pure Encapsulations, LLC NOW Health Group, Inc. Nature's Way Products, LLC Solgar, Inc. Traditional Medicinals, Inc. Twinlab Consolidated Holdings, Inc. Ayush Herbs, Inc. Integrative Therapeutics Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 84 Forecast Period 2024 - 2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $34.82 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 $125.94 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 23.8% Regions Covered United States Report Scope: In this report, the United States Complementary and Alternative Medicine Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below: United States Complementary and Alternative Medicine Market, By Intervention: Traditional Alternative Medicine/Botanicals Mind Healing Body Healing External Energy Aromatherapy United States Complementary and Alternative Medicine Market, By Distribution Method: Direct Sales E-sales Distance Correspondence United States Complementary and Alternative Medicine Market, By Region: North-East Mid-West West South For more information about this report visit About is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Attachment U.S. Complementary and Alternative Medicine Market CONTACT: CONTACT: Laura Wood,Senior Press Manager press@ For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900Sign in to access your portfolio
NDTV
27-05-2025
- Health
- NDTV
Health Benefits Of Mint Fennel Water
Staying hydrated in a healthy way is essential, especially during India's sweltering summers. While plain water is always beneficial, infusing it with natural ingredients like mint and fennel can offer added wellness perks. Mint fennel water is a traditional Indian remedy known to soothe the digestive system, refresh the senses, and support overall well-being. Both ingredients are commonly used in Ayurveda and are backed by modern science for their medicinal properties. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), herbal infusions like these can support gut health, reduce inflammation, and aid in detoxification when taken regularly. Why you should start your day with mint fennel water Mint fennel water is more than just a refreshing drink. It serves as a natural detoxifier, digestive aid, and cooling agent for the body. Combining the soothing effects of mint with the carminative (gas-relieving) power of fennel, this herbal water is ideal for those looking to improve digestion, reduce bloating, and enhance hydration with natural herbs. 1. Aids digestion and reduces bloating Both mint and fennel are known for their carminative properties. They help relax gastrointestinal muscles, improve bile flow, and relieve gas. Fennel seeds contain anethole, which can help ease stomach cramps and indigestion. 2. Promotes better hydration The cooling nature of mint makes water more palatable, encouraging you to drink more. Hydration is key to regulating body temperature, preventing fatigue, and supporting cellular functions. 3. Natural detoxification Fennel is rich in antioxidants and fibre, which support liver function and help flush toxins from the body. Mint has anti-inflammatory compounds that help cleanse the system and fight oxidative stress. 4. Helps manage weight Drinking mint fennel water can aid metabolism and reduce appetite. Fennel seeds may help suppress hunger and reduce water retention, which is beneficial for those on a weight-loss journey. 5. Improves skin health Hydrated skin is healthy skin. The antioxidants in mint and fennel help purify the blood and reduce acne-causing toxins. Their anti-inflammatory properties also soothe irritated skin and promote a clearer complexion. 6. Freshens breath naturally Fennel seeds have been used for centuries as natural mouth fresheners. Combined with mint, this drink helps eliminate bacteria in the mouth and maintain oral hygiene. 7. Supports hormonal balance Fennel seeds are known to contain phytoestrogens that can help regulate hormonal fluctuations in women. Regular consumption may ease symptoms of PMS or menopause when taken under medical supervision. How to make mint fennel water Boil the water and add fennel seeds. Let it steep for 10 minutes. Add mint leaves and allow the mixture to cool. Strain and drink in the morning on an empty stomach or sip throughout the day. Ingredients 1 tsp fennel seeds (saunf) 5-6 fresh mint leaves 2 glasses of water Mint fennel water is a gentle yet powerful herbal infusion offering multiple health benefits, from better digestion to glowing skin. As confirmed by holistic health experts and supported by traditional practices, incorporating it into your daily routine is a simple step toward improved wellness. Refreshing, detoxifying, and easy to prepare, it's nature's elixir in a glass. Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
NDTV
22-04-2025
- Health
- NDTV
Can Ayurvedic Treatment Help Cure Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes rapid skin cell turnover, leading to red, scaly patches primarily on the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back. While modern medicine offers topical steroids and immunosuppressants, many patients are exploring holistic alternatives. Ayurveda, India's traditional system of medicine, focuses on balancing bodily energies, Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, to treat the root cause of the disease. According to the Ministry of AYUSH, Ayurvedic therapies, dietary changes, and herbal remedies have shown promise in managing psoriasis symptoms. But can they truly cure the condition? Let's explore what Ayurveda has to offer in the management of psoriasis. Ayurveda focuses on long-term balance Unlike conventional treatments that manage symptoms, Ayurveda aims to restore systemic balance. It views psoriasis as a result of an imbalance in the doshas, particularly Vata and Kapha. Through detoxification, herbal medication, diet, and lifestyle changes, Ayurvedic treatment seeks to reduce inflammation and support skin regeneration, offering long-term relief rather than short-term suppression. Below mentioned are seven Ayurvedic remedies and principles for managing psoriasis. 1. Panchakarma therapy for detoxification Ayurveda recommends Panchakarma, a five-step cleansing process involving therapies like Vamana (emesis), Virechana (purgation), and Basti (medicated enema). This is believed to purify the blood and remove accumulated toxins, which may help in reducing the severity of psoriatic patches. 2. Herbal formulations like turmeric and neem Anti-inflammatory herbs such as turmeric, neem, and guggul are commonly prescribed. Turmeric, in particular, is rich in curcumin, a compound studied for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) has recognised turmeric's therapeutic potential in various inflammatory conditions. 3. Use of medicated ghee and oils Ayurvedic practitioners often prescribe medicated ghee like Mahatiktaka Ghrita and herbal oils like Karanj oil and Coconut oil infused with herbs for topical use. These soothe inflammation, reduce scaling, and help moisturise dry, flaky skin. 4. Diet based on dosha balance (Pathya-Apathya) Diet plays a crucial role. Patients are advised to avoid spicy, oily, and fermented foods. Bitter vegetables like karela (bitter gourd) and leafy greens are encouraged to reduce Pitta imbalance and cool the system internally. 5. Stress management through yoga and meditation Psoriasis flare-ups are often linked to emotional stress. Yoga asanas like Shavasana, meditation, and pranayama are recommended to calm the nervous system and help regulate the immune response naturally. 6. Avoiding environmental triggers Ayurvedic guidelines also encourage minimising exposure to harsh chemicals, cold temperatures, and allergens which may trigger or worsen the symptoms of psoriasis. 7. Consistency and time are key Ayurvedic treatments are not overnight cures. They require consistent practice over months. Regular follow-ups with certified Ayurvedic practitioners are important to tailor the treatment as per the individual's prakriti (body constitution). While Ayurveda may not offer a cure for psoriasis, it provides a well-rounded, personalised approach to managing the disease holistically. With consistent treatment, detoxification, diet regulation, and stress relief, many patients report significant improvement in symptoms. As always, consult both dermatologists and certified Ayurvedic practitioners before combining therapies for safe, effective, and integrative care. Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
