Detoxification Saunas

One of the most basic steps of detoxification is promoting heat in the body to release lipophilic (fat-soluble) toxins from the fat cells of the body. This is known as heat depuration, which means to remove a toxic contaminant or to purify with heat. When heat frees toxins from the fat cells where they are stored, they move to the bloodstream where they are flushed out of the body in perspiration, urine, bile, and other body fluids.

Not all methods of detoxification will be available or appropriate for all people. For some of them medical supervision is essential; others can be done on your own at home. The heavier your total toxic burden is, the more imperative it is to have medical supervision for your detoxification program. Detoxification must take place slowly enough that the detoxification mechanisms of the body can handle the increased load, so that you do not sustain organ damage.

The use of a sauna is a major part of most detoxification programs because the “heat stress” of a sauna is very effective in releasing toxins from fat cells. Developed in Finland centuries ago, saunas are now used worldwide and are common in health clubs and gyms.

A sauna is a relatively airtight room with wooden platforms and benches. The air is kept fresh by a special ventilation system that preheats outside air before it enters the sauna. For good ventilation, the air should be exchanged six times an hour.

Saunas may be either dry or wet. For a dry sauna, no moisture is added to the sauna room. Electricity is used to generate infrared heat. Dry saunas stimulate a therapeutic sweat that helps flush out toxins and heavy metals. They also stimulate vasodilation of peripheral blood vessels and increase cardiovascular activity, which helps the body rid itself of more toxins. Saunas speed up all metabolism in the body and inhibit the replication of pathogenic organisms, such as bacteria and viruses. The immune response is also strengthened because the number of leukocytes (a type of white blood cell) in the blood is increased.

One- or two-person dry saunas constructed of wood are available for home use. Infrared units provide the heat source for these saunas. Poplar is the best choice of wood for sensitive people, as it outgases fewer terpenes. Portable saunas, sometimes called cabinet baths, are also available for home use. They are available in both wet and dry models. These saunas allow the head to remain cool and the user to breathe the cleaner outside air. Take care when selecting a portable sauna because plastic parts can outgas.

Dry saunas are recommended because they increase sweating and so speed detoxification. A complete sauna cleansing program should include exercise, time in a dry sauna, and a cleansing shower followed by a massage or physical therapy. Both the exercise and sauna time should be built up gradually so that stress to the body is minimized. The bodywork breaks down chemical storage, mobilizes toxins, and helps break down toxic chemicals through increased metabolism.

Some people experience increased excretion of toxins if they exfoliate the skin. The skin is in contact with pollution, ultraviolet radiation, and dirt. These substances combine with the oils, salts, and toxins that the skin excretes daily, as well as dead skin cells that are being shed. Exfoliation, which involves gently rubbing off the old layers, is accomplished with the aid of a loofa sponge, sisal mitt, or brushes. Exfoliation helps speed the detoxification process by increasing circulation, opening pores, and invigorating the skin. If you use exfoliation, take a shower before beginning your exercise session.

Begin your detoxification session with 20 minutes of exercise. You may have to gradually build up your exercise time if you have previously been sedentary. Light cardiovascular exercise, such as a stationary bike or walking on a treadmill as tolerated, is helpful as is rebounding (jumping on a trampoline) for 3 to 5 minutes a day. Rebounding stimulates lymph flow, which helps remove toxins. Drink at least two 8-ounce glasses of water during your exercise period.

Go into the sauna when you finish exercising. If you are fairly healthy, and heat tolerant, begin your sauna time with 10 minutes. If you are heat intolerant or have multiple chemical sensitivities or a chronic illness, begin with 5 minutes and increase by 5 minutes daily. The maximum sauna time should be 30 to 45 minutes to allow for ample sweating and the accompanying release of toxins. The temperature should be kept between 140°F and 150°F for environmentally ill people and people with a heavy load of toxins.