MARINA STORM

Spring is a season for gentle cleansing and green nourishment. Just as we spring clean our homes, we can detoxify naturally by adding green vegetables and herbs to our diets. Nutrient-rich, seasonal fuel—ingested as food, juice and tea—is just what the body needs to stay in balance.

Here are three herbs and three foods that I trust to promote spring health. In addition to being seasonal, these are nutrient-packed and great for detoxifying.

HERBS

Cilantro

This natural detoxifier helps to remove heavy metals from the body. Cilantro is a great remedy for enhancing digestive function too.

Oregano

Packed with antioxidants, oregano helps you stay healthy through transitional seasons. Recent university studies have found that the powerful antibacterial herb can actually rival penicillin! It makes a great tea to drink when you feel a bug coming on.

Parsley

This nutrient-rich digestive aid is high in minerals and is especially cleansing to the kidneys. It is a good source of iron and vitamins B12, C, and K.

FOODS

Asparagus

This nutritive diuretic moves excess fluids out of the body and helps cleanse the kidneys gently. It contains antioxidant and detoxifying compounds that help break down carcinogens and protect against free radicals.

Artichokes

Especially cleansing to the liver and gallbladder, the artichoke’s bitter flavor is actually an indicator of its effect on these organs and its ability to stimulate digestion. Artichokes are a great source of folic acid along with many other vitamins and minerals.

Arugula

High in vitamins and minerals, this spicy spring green is rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, calcium, iron and potassium, just to name a few. It contains high levels of chlorophyll and is a member of the brassica family, a group of vegetables known to ward off cancer.