As the New Year approaches and detox programs gain popularity, it is crucial to approach this journey with due caution and comprehensive understanding.

As a naturopath in Australia, I have witnessed the risks associated with hasty detox efforts. This is particularly true for individuals managing histamine intolerance, skin conditions and autoimmune issues linked to Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) or mould toxicity.

Let’s now deepen our understanding by exploring the intricacies of detoxification. Moreover, let’s uncover why consulting a naturopath, like myself, is integral for a safe and effective cleanse.

1.         Mould Toxicity: Unveiling the Root Trigger

The primary root trigger I consistently observe in my clinic is Mould Toxicity. Mould not only poses a challenge for detoxification; it also intertwines with issues like Histamine Intolerance and MCAS. Lowering the toxic load and aiding the body in safely removing mould toxins are key components in addressing these complex conditions.

2.         The Three Phases of Detox: A Brief Overview

Understanding the three phases of detoxification is crucial for embarking on a safe and effective cleansing journey. These phases unfold in the liver, where toxins undergo processes to become water-soluble and safely exit the body. However, for those with MCAS and Mould Toxicity, navigating these phases requires precision to prevent exacerbating existing issues.

3.         Histamine Intolerance: Unravelling the Complexities

Histamine, a mediator in the neuro-immuno-endocrine system, plays a vital role in various physiological mechanisms. Histamine intolerance, distinct from allergy, involves an excessive accumulation of histamine due to an imbalance between intake and elimination. Recognising histamine intoxication symptoms and addressing underlying causes are pivotal in the treatment process.

4.         Causes of Histamine Intolerance: A Holistic View

Histamine intolerance often stems from underlying factors such as viruses, fungi, bacteria, parasites, an unbalanced microbiome, stagnant liver, low bile production and insufficient stomach acid. Addressing these root causes is essential for resolving histamine intolerance and preventing its recurrence.

5.      Five Steps to Address Histamine Intolerance

1. Avoid Excess Dietary Histamine: Temporarily eliminate high histamine foods and stabilise mast cells.
2. Rebalance Microbiome: Strategically address gut dysbiosis—an imbalance in the microbial community within the human body, particularly in the digestive system—prior to anti-microbial therapy to avoid excessive histamine release.
3. Target Underlying Infections: Utilise comprehensive testing to identify and clear underlying infections, including viruses, bacteria, parasites and fungi.
4. Assess Liver Function: Tailor liver optimisation strategies based on individual factors like toxin exposure and lifestyle.
5. Support Immune System: Strengthen the immune system through repletion of essential vitamins and minerals for lasting recovery.

6.         Detoxification Mistakes and Precision Detox

Detoxification mistakes can lead to severe consequences; especially for those with sensitivities. Precision detoxification is vital for individuals with Mast Cell Activation Syndrome and Histamine Intolerance.

Personalised approaches; avoiding common pitfalls such as detoxing metals before addressing mould toxins; and utilising the right strategies can make a significant difference in the healing journey.

7.         Conclusion

As the New Year beckons, the allure of detox programs intensifies. To safeguard your well-being, consider consulting with a naturopath, like myself, Charmaine D, WITH expertise in histamine intolerance, skin conditions and autoimmune issues.

Navigating the detox maze requires precision; a meticulously tailored approach ensures that your journey is both effective and safe.

8.         Cautionary Measures

Embarking on a detox journey?

First and foremost, guarantee its safety and effectiveness by consulting with a naturopath.

Additionally, recognise that addressing mould toxicity and histamine intolerance requires a precisely designed strategy to prevent potential setbacks.

✅ NOURISH… ❌ DON’T DETOX!

In a world saturated with detox fads, it is crucial to appreciate and be reminded of the body’s remarkable, natural detoxification capabilities.  Join us on a journey to unravel the truth and discover the art of nourishing the body from within. 

1. Understanding the Intricacies of Natural Detox  

Existing within us is a system comprising the gut, liver and kidneys; a complex system that works tirelessly to naturally detoxify. The liver, kidneys and gut are instrumental in eliminating toxins, displaying the remarkable efficiency of our internal detox mechanisms. 

In the realm of wellness, certain fasting practices can be beneficial. Nevertheless, it is essential to embark on them at optimal times to make the most of their benefits. A fasting protocol that is making you feel significantly worse, indicates that there could be an underlying problem.  This signals the need for an evaluation to ensure your body can handle detoxification at that point in time.  

The liver plays a crucial role in overseeing three essential phases of detoxification; particularly significant for individuals contending with challenges such as mould detoxification. Errors frequently occur when these phases lack sufficient support; particularly when addressing sensitivities.  

Rather than delving into common detox pitfalls, let’s pause for a moment and redirect our focus to exploring the three essential phases of toxin detoxification.  

It is crucial to grasp that Phases 1 and 2 unfold within the liver, while in Phase 3, toxins migrate from the liver before being expelled from the body. 

In Phase 1, the liver renders toxins more water-soluble, making them ready for elimination. However, this process generates damaging free radicals, paving the way for Phase 2 to intervene.  

Phase 2 involves making these intermediate toxins less harmful through conjugation, a process that “packages up” toxins for safe removal. 

Phase 3 marks the exit of packaged toxins from the liver. The toxins can either enter the bloodstream or exit through the gallbladder with bile, eventually being expelled from the body.  

When these three phases encounter impediments, often exacerbated by mould and other toxins, a downward spiral ensues, impacting overall health. 

2. Embracing the Merit of a Naturopath’s Proficiency 

As a naturopath treating patients with diverse underlying conditions, my approach involves tailoring treatments to individual needs. Rather than applying blanket protocols, I address biochemical and physiological impediments such as viral infections, gastrointestinal dysbiosis, food allergies and vitamin deficiencies. 

3. The Pitfalls of Do It Yourself (DIY) Treatment Plans 

Crafting a personalised treatment plan is crucial, as a one-size-fits-all approach seldom works for complex cases. Online information overload may lead well-informed individuals to concoct DIY plans, relying on research-backed interventions. However, not all interventions suitable on paper translate effectively to individual cases. 

4. Functional Medicine for Detox Support  

Seeking a practitioner trained in Functional Medicine is paramount for effective detox support. The treatment plan should adapt to evolving patient needs, akin to peeling back layers of an onion. Health is not universally restored through extreme measures like water fasts; instead, it requires a nuanced, personalised approach. 

5. Nourishing vs. Detoxing 

Amidst the clamour of detox trends, the emphasis should shift towards nourishment. Extreme detox measures can disrupt the delicate balance, especially for those with overburdened detoxification organs. While intermittent fasting can be beneficial, prolonged water and juice fasts may not suit everyone. 

6. Understanding Toxin Load 

The body detoxifies through five crucial organs—liver, kidneys, intestines, skin and lungs. 

A high toxin load, prevalent in today’s lifestyle, poses health risks. Chemical toxins from various sources, including mould, can overwhelm detox pathways, contributing to symptoms like fatigue, brain fog and sensitivities. 

7. Detoxification Challenges with Mould Exposure 

Mould toxins, or mycotoxins, can impede detox pathways, triggering conditions like Mast Cell Activation Syndrome. Modern living exposes individuals to high levels of mould, intensifying detox challenges. Understanding these complexities is vital for effective detox support. 

8. Healthy Habits for Detox Support 

Incorporating lifestyle and dietary habits that promote overall well-being is essential. A balanced diet, hydration and adequate sleep serve as allies in supporting the body’s natural detox processes. 

9. Cautionary Notes 

Aggressive detox methods pose risks and may harm rather than help. Approach detox with caution, seeking professional advice for a personalised care plan. 

10. Conclusion 

Our bodies are marvels of natural detoxification.  

Let’s shift our focus from quick fixes to a holistic approach that prioritises nourishment. 

Embrace a lifestyle aligned with your body’s rhythm for well-being and harmony. 

Remember, the journey to optimal health is a marathon, not a sprint.  

Consult with Charmaine D for personalised guidance, ensuring your well-being journey is as unique as you are. 

“Caution: Support, not Detox. Book a Consult with Charmaine D to ensure safe and effective well-being strategies.” 

Naturopath and skin expert, Charmaine D, has formulated a skincare line called Cell Defence. Cell Defence is a high performing, botanically based skincare program formulated with an understanding and belief of the concept that plant ingredients are far safer, gentler and better for human health than synthetic chemicals. It was this belief that initiated the formulation of Cell Defence and for it to be crafted from the infusion of all things pure in plant chemistry. A chemical free product prepared in line with the Do No Harm guidelines of a Naturopath. Treat the cause don’t band-aid the issue. The major differentiation of this skincare line is its combination of pure, active ingredients which are jam-packed into every formulation. Each preparation is synergistically combined to work together in harmony with your own skin. When purchasing a skincare product individuals need to be confident in the knowledge that the product’s ingredients will work harmoniously with their skin’s requirements. With this in mind, Cell Defence is backed by a Naturopath that has had her own skincare clinic for over 25 years.

Although always beneficial, how we apply the products onto our skin may have the ability to increase the benefits. For example, after cleansing your face with the Hibiscus Flower Foaming Cleansing Gel, and toning your face with the Skin Saviour Toner, applying the next product; Lilac Rebalancing Plant Stem Cell Serum through gentle tapping may increase the product’s benefits, and may ensure the skin absorbs it more thoroughly, allowing for penetration at a cellular level.

Tapping is more commonly associated with EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) tapping, and used for emotional release and energy rebalancing. Under the belief that energy and emotions can become trapped and stagnant in the face. This treatment has been used on people suffering with anxiety and is similarly associated with acupressure and massage.

Therefore, tapping of a plant-based, healing product into the skin on our face may not only provide benefits from the botanically-based skincare, but also provide a relaxing routine, and potential emotional release.

Performing any routine mindfully, ensuring all action is rooted in grace and self-care, can significantly increase it’s benefits, from eating mindfully, to moving our body mindfully. It is therefore plausible that applying our skincare mindfully and with grace can transform the usually rushed, mundane chore, to a time of self-care and meditation.

Though EFT has trigger points and correct methods, tapping product into your skin does not need to be so strict. For a brief introduction to tapping, see the video of a Cell Defence customer tapping her serum into her skin. With no right or wrong way, just ensure to tap gently. This customer is a long-term client of Naturopath, Charmaine D, and has been suffering from histamine and hormone-induced acne. By utilising these botanically-based, gentle skincare products, she has found an increase in skin health and moisture-retention, as well as scar reducing and soothing. She also states the process of tapping her products every morning and evening has created a mindful ritual that resets her headspace. She also states that the tapping may be helping her circulation and prevent stagnation to her lymphatic system (see lymphatic blog).

For acne healing and lowering histamines it is recommended by Charmaine D to use the Lilac Rebalancing Serum for the full face. For a boost under the eyes, it is recommended to use the Saffron Eye Firming Serum. All of the Cell Defence serums benefit from being tapped into the skin gently and with care.

For more information on the skincare program or Charmaine D’s naturopathic and skincare expertise, book a consultation online to begin your journey to healing and oneness.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW OUR INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEO

CLIENT STORY:

Here you can see two photos of me, taken a year or so apart. The first photo was before I even knew what  a lymphatic treatment was, while the second photo was a few months into my treatment.

My whole life I have been called “baby face”. I have always been self-conscious about the roundness of my face, desperate for the cheekbones and contouring I saw on so many women around me. It didn’t matter how much I exercised, what weight I was or what food I consumed, my face stayed round. The best way to describe how it looked and felt is swollen, my face was swollen. I didn’t understand why and I definitely didn’t know there was anything I could do about it. Until I met naturopath Charmaine D. I went to Charmaine for hormonal support transitioning off the pill, but where I’ve ended up is far beyond what I could’ve imagined.

Charmaine noticed instantly that my face was rounder than what my body’s build allowed and suggested we begin lymphatic treatment. For this treatment to start, I needed to really understand what it was I was dealing with and why.

What is the lymphatic system? The lymphatic system is a drainage network that removes cellular debris, large proteins, foreign bodies, bacteria, viruses, toxins and excess fluid from our organs and vessels. Our lymph nodes act as ‘purification centres’ and is where the lymph fluid moves through. Its primary function is to protect our body from illness and accumulated waste. The lymphatic system circulates lymph throughout the body, approximately 1.5 to 2 litres. When activated efficiently, this can increase to 10-30 litres per day. As the lymphatic system is not connected to the heart, it cannot rely on the heart pumping to circulate, but rather other methods such as muscle contraction. There are many reasons why the lymph vessels or lymph nodes become clogged or stagnant such as stress, illness, emotional shock, dehydration and lack of physical activity. When this stagnation occurs, it can result in fluid retention and swelling.

This fluid retention and swelling is what was wrong with my face. Due to constant illness as a child, my immune system and lymphatic system could never rest and recover, always being in the fight or flight mode, trying to protect me. This caused many issues, mainly fatigue and lymphostasis. In order for my lymphatic system above my heart to work properly, that stagnant fluid needed to be drained and my lymph nodes needed to relax.

This was done both externally and internally with herbs and lymphatic pumping. Charmaine D used botanical herbs that internally aid the drainage of the lymph nodes. This ensured that from the inside out, my lymphatic system was getting the support and drainage it needed. Externally, Charmaine was using a mechanical lymphatic drainage pumping machine, engineered in South Australia. It works similarly to Chinese cupping in that it mechanically massages the lymph nodes to stimulate the deep and superficial lymphatic vessels, which in turn promotes drainage and aids in stagnation. Unlike Chinese cupping, it does not cause bruising, but rather utilises strong puffs of air to stimulate that lymphatic massage.

Charmaine D performed this drainage treatment on half of my face for the first time and asked me to cup both sides to feel the difference, and after only one treatment there was a drastic difference. Fast forward two years later and with a few months of internal herbal treatment, as well as consistent lymphatic drainage pumping, my face is now the shape and size it should be, with no swelling. More than how it looks, however, I also have more energy, am less likely to feel fatigued, and don’t get sick as often.

Through Charmaine’s extensive knowledge on skin and naturopathy, she was able to heal me from the inside, as well as the outside, in a way that utilises natural products and doesn’t cause more harm in the process. For anyone who is concerned about their lymphatic system, for the face or entire body, I highly recommend reaching out to Charmaine D for a consultation.