A salt flush is a detoxification method that uses magnesium salts to promote the elimination of toxins accumulated in the body, in particular uric acid.
Uric acid
Uric acid is a natural by-product of purine degradationfound mainly in animal proteins (meat, eggs, dairy products...), alkaloids (caffeine, morphine, nicotine...) and refined sugars. This sparingly soluble acid solidifies in the form of acid crystals that tend to lodge in jointsparticularly in the extremities of the body, such as the toes, ankles and knees.
When there is an excessive accumulation in the body, it can cause joint problems such as gout, but also all types of other inflammatory pain as well as wear and tear, agitation, fever, emotional instability, aggressiveness, itching, etc...
Uric acid can also be deposited in other areas of the body, such as the kidneys, forming kidney stones or from soft tissue depositssuch as ears or tendons.
Salt purging is a natural and effective way to reduce excessive uric acid accumulation in the body and restore our vitality and joie de vivre.
Benefits of salt purging
The Irène Grosjean who taught me the practice of purging (saline and oily) during a course I took with her in the summer of 2020. Since then, I've used it on numerous occasions and I'm now convinced of the benefits of purging.
Here are just a few examples:
- Detox: One of the functions of our natural emunctories (liver, kidneys, intestines, lungs, skin) is to eliminate the toxins we accumulate. When these systems become too clogged, a saline cleanse helps them eliminate excess toxins. By eliminating these toxins, our body can regain its natural balance and function optimally.
- Pain relief: The magnesium salts used in salt purging help neutralize uric acid and reduce inflammatory-type conditions.
- Improved vitality: By eliminating toxins, salt flushing enables our bodies to better absorb essential nutrients, promoting better digestion, energy and vitality.
- Symptom reduction: Saline purging can help reduce symptoms such as anxiety, sleep disorders, muscle pain and skin problems.
The different options for salt purging
Irène Grosjean recommends several options for salt purging. I've ranked them from the most effective (radical) to the most "pleasant". Note that when urine burns, it's because it contains acid, which is being eliminated.
- Chlorumagen: Extremely effective option for neutralizing and eliminating pain.
- Chlorumagen is a Magnesium hydroxide (Mg(OH)2) at 100%. Not to be confused with Magnesium Chloride.
- We call this molecule ChloruMaGMagnesium hydroxide is generated when it comes into contact with the hydrochloric acid present in gastric juices.
- Much of the acid to be eliminated will pass through the urine when Chlorumagen is chosen.
- Magnesia San Pellegrino: Deacidifying properties.
- Magnesia San Pellegrino is a Magnesium hydroxide at 90%.
- Although it's not generally available in pharmacies, you can order it from them (ask for the 90% version, not the 44% which is usually the default).
- Make sure you also choose the simple, non-effervescent version.
- Helps eliminate toxins with less passage through the stool.
- Magnesium sulfate (Epsom salt): less powerful than magnesium hydroxide, but still effective in eliminating toxins.
- Magnesium sulfate, also known as Epsom salt, is a heptahydrate sulfate.
- It can be purchased in 500g packs on specialist websites or in small 30g sachets from chemists.
- A greater quantity of toxins is generally evacuated through stools rather than urine.
- Purgative lime: less potent than magnesium sulfate, but has the advantage of a pleasant taste.
- Must be able to find a drugstore but I've never used one so I wouldn't know.
Seawater
Another way to purge saline is to ingest sea water to a certain extent. There's a certain protocol to follow. Irène Grosjean didn't teach me this technique, but I've practiced it successfully, so I can recommend it to anyone who feels the appeal. I'll be writing a detailed article on the subject soon.
Nigari salt
The Nigari salt (Magnesium chloride) is not to be considered a salt purge in the strict sense of the term. Rather, it will cause lymphatic drainageThis is different from a purge, whose aim is to eliminate toxins and waste accumulated in the body. Both can, of course, be complementary. because (1) emptying detoxifies and (2) purging eliminates the toxins that have been detoxified.
For lymphatic drainage, make a preparation of 20g of Nigari salt to 1L of water and take a glass or ½ glass a day.
Recommended protocol for salt purging
All salt purges require drink well to dilute acid crystals. Based on Irène Grosjean's teachings and my own experience, here's the basic protocol for salt purging:
- Food descent: I ideally recommend that you make a food downhill for at least 1 day without animal products or cereals (including bread and rice), and to eat at least 70% of raw fruit and vegetables that day, with no added salt (and ideally no fat either). If you eat a little cooked food, that's okay, but go for raw, as this will greatly enhance your body's ability to eliminate toxins the next day.
- Fasting: It is recommended to fast for 6 to 8 hours before taking the saline purge. This prepares the body to receive the saline solution. Choose to take the saline solution in the morning on an empty stomach, or at the end of the day, taking care to leave at least 6 to 8 hours after your midday meal.
- Choice of magnesium salts: Ideally, I recommend consult with a qualified naturopath or coach to identify the best option for you at this stage. When in doubt, or if you don't have the opportunity to consult, I generally recommend opting for Epsom Salt, as it has an effect without being too violent - especially if it's your first purge.
- Solution preparation: Follow the specific instructions for each magnesium salt to prepare the appropriate saline solution. In general, it is recommended to take 2 tablespoons salt (30g) in a large glass of preferably lukewarm water because the salts dilute more quickly and the intestine absorbs the solution more quickly.
- Hydration: After taking the saline purge, it is crucial to drain properly by drinking 1L to 1.5L of liquid over the next 2 to 3 hours such as herbal teas, vegetable broth or hydrosols. Vegetable broth is particularly beneficial, as each vegetable has medicinal properties that will help the body cleanse itself.
- Observing body signs: During the salt purging process, it is important to connect with your body and toobserve signs and sensations. Until you feel better or are really hungry (different fromdesire to eat, which is more of a psycho-emotional need than a physical one), we recommend not eating and continuing to let the body eliminate toxins. As long as you continue to evacuate, stay on a diet.
- Eating again: It's important not to swallow anything that needs to be digested before you've had several bowel movements. When you resume eating, take it slowly and gradually. It is essential to start with rehydration by drinking pure water, which will help eliminate remaining toxins and restore your body's water balance. You can also opt for a clear vegetable broth or a mild herbal tea. Next, gradually add fresh fruit and vegetablesand light, easy-to-digest foods such as soups, light salads and steamed vegetables. Opt for foods that provide essential nutrients while being gentle on the digestive system. In all cases, listen to your body's signals, adjust your diet if necessary and gradually increase the quantity and variety of foods you eat.
Precautions
A purge is not a trivial operation. This requires a certain level of vitality in the body to allow the various systems to rebalance following the operation. Before performing a purge, you need to a diet rich in plant-based productsa adequate hydration thanks to a living (non-dehydrated) diet, as well as a appropriate physical activity to allow energies to circulate in the body.
Some saline purges may be contraindicated. such as kidney failure, high blood pressure, cardiac arrhythmia or pregnancy.
In all cases, it is always advisable to consult a health professional before starting any detoxification program, so that we can tailor the method to your individual needs.
Happy purging and regeneration!