One of the most common e-mails I receive goes something like this: "How do I cleanse my liver? Do you have any liver cleanse recipes? How do you do a liver flush? Is it safe?" So instead of sending out a hundred emails on the topic, I decided to write it all out for everyone's benefit and share the wonders of flushing out and regenerating your liver!
Why Do a Liver Cleanse?
Our liver is a phenomenal organ and a true hardworking hustler when it comes to keeping things in order.
Every day, our liver:
• Manages our blood sugar levels
• Produces, filters, conjugates, deconjugates, and regulates our hormones
• Creates bile to break down fats so that the body can assimilate fat-soluble vitamins
• Metabolizes alcohol and medications
• Produces and secretes vital protein components for blood plasma which are essential for blood clotting
• Maintains our electrolyte balance
• Filters 1.4 liters of blood per minute!
That's a lot of vital processes our body needs on a daily basis for vibrant health and well-being.
Pretty impressive!
Ensuring the liver is in tip-top shape is one of the best ways to maintain energy, beautiful skin, and overall health.
The liver takes care of a lot and doesn't get any breaks. To maintain optimal health and a robust immune system, we need to lessen its burden as much as possible because toxins are more prevalent than ever before.
Giving it a good liver detox on occasion to support healthy liver function is a great way to support our health and well-being.
However, you don't HAVE to do a liver and gallbladder flush to get the same results.
You can take herbal supplements like milk thistle or dandelion root to achieve the same results, albeit in a longer time frame.
This a great option for anyone who doesn't want to go through an intense cleanse drinking a rather yucky-tasting liver detox drink.
Who Should Do a Liver Cleanse?
Not everyone should do a liver cleanse because it can pack a wallop on those who take certain medications, are pregnant or nursing, suffer from frequent yeast infections, are diabetic, hypoglycemic, have stomach ulcers, or have a fragile constitution due to age, chemo, etc.
Honestly, this cleanse can take you on Mr. Toad's Wild Ride even if you're strong and healthy, so I highly recommend checking with your healthcare practitioner before diving into liver flushing.
That said, how do you know if you need to do a liver cleanse?
Some of the most common reasons may be:
• You have acne
• You drink alcohol regularly
• You drank too heavily on a night out or over the weekend
• You eat processed foods often
• Your sugar intake is moderate to high
• You feel fatigued, run-down, or just tired throughout the day
• You use chemicals to clean your home
• You are exposed to environmental toxins and pollution (maybe you live in a large city or your workplace uses chemicals)
• Your blood sugar fluctuates often (due to your liver's overburdened state)
• Your skin is always dry
• You use skincare and cosmetics that contain chemicals daily, like lotions, shampoos, conditioners, foundation, etc.
• You have unexplained back pain
How Often Should You Do a Liver Cleanse?
This largely depends on how you treat your body. If you eat healthy wholesome foods, exercise a few times a week, stay hydrated, get outside, and keep your alcohol, sugar, and processed foods intake to a minimum, you really only "need" to cleanse your liver once a year.
However, if you go out often and are exposed to pollutants, chemicals, and other toxins in your environment on a daily basis, cleansing your liver 2-3 times a year is generally recommended.
Never do a liver cleanse when you are ill.
How does The Liver Cleanse Work?
I'm adding this in so you know exactly why you need to follow every instruction without substitutions. The cleanse will not work otherwise and you may cause yourself some unintentional discomfort.
Apples, Apple Juice, and Malic Acid
Apples are rich in malic acid, a compound that helps break up gallstones for more comfortable elimination. You need to include these in this cleanse for this reason. Without them, you may not pass some of the larger stones.
Epsom Salts
Epsom salts are essential because it dilates the ducts that expel gallstones. If you don't use Epsom salts, you risk one or more of the stones getting lodged and causing a lot of pain as the gallbladder expels bile.
Grapefruit and Lemon
The slightly bitter flavor of these fruits is known to stimulate the gallbladder and cause it to release bile and flush out stones. Grapefruit and lemon are also amazing for liver support and regeneration.
All of these make up the recipe for a rather intense liver cleanse juice that isn't for the faint of heart so please do your research and be prepared!
How to Do a Liver Cleanse and Liver Flush
This cleanse is inexpensive and straightforward to do. In fact, you may already have all of the ingredients that you need. Once again, keep in mind that this cleanse is not for everyone!
Here are the ingredients:
• Organic apple juice (I buy the large gallon size as I need it)
• Organic whole apples, or a malic acid supplement
• 4 TB Epsom salt
• 3 cups of filtered water
• ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
• One or two large organic grapefruit (I prefer ruby grapefruit) OR 3 organic lemons (must be freshly squeezed from the fruit!) to make at least ½ cup of juice. Do not use ready-made juice.
Lime juice will not work.
How to do a Liver Flush
Before diving into this liver flush routine, please READ ALL OF THE INSTRUCTIONS FIRST.
This will ensure success and you will know what to expect and can prepare properly.
This cleanse can take 11 days to complete if you want to best results possible.
5 Days Before Cleansing
Eat as many organic apples as possible for the first five days before you begin the liver flushing protocol. Obviously, don't make yourself ill doing this.
I typically eat one apple with every meal and snack on apples between meals.
You can also drink unfiltered organic apple juice instead of eating apples throughout the day, or take a malic acid supplement according to its instructions.
Just choose one method - apples or malic acid. Doing both will be too much.
During this time, eat clean, healthy meals that are simple, like lean meats, whole vegetables, fresh fruit, and whole grains.
Days 1 and 2 of The Liver Cleanse
On days 1 and 2, you should cut out all meat products (unless you absolutely need more sustenance) and focus on eating fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains if desired. Keep it very simple.
Eat a fresh apple with every meal or take malic acid as directed on the bottle. Snack on fresh apples as desired.
*** Alternatively, you can eat clean five days prior to starting the cleanse and fast for days 1 and 2 if you are experienced with cleansing protocols.
Day 3, 4, and 5 of the Liver Cleanse
On days 3-5, begin drinking a cup of organic apple juice every 2-3 waking hours, you can do this in conjunction with eating apples as well if you desire, but it isn't necessary.
This process tops up the malic acid in your body which is an incredible liver detoxifier and will help ensure that you flush out more stones.
If you don't want to drink apple juice or eat apples, you can take 500mg of malic acid 3x a day with lots of filtered water.
Day 6 of the Liver Cleanse
Make sure to prepare for this flush ahead of time.
Get someone to watch the kids and make sure you have taken care of everything you need to. The fewer distractions, the better your results will be.
Step 1. On day 6, eat a very light breakfast with no fat before 10 am. An example would be fresh fruit.
Doing this will increase bile accumulation in the liver. The bile increases pressure which will help eliminate more stones.
After breakfast, just drink water and snack lightly on fresh fruit if needed.
Step 2. At 2:00 pm, mix 4 TB of Epsom salt into 3 cups of filtered water and store it in the fridge so it gets cold.
DO NOT eat after 2:00 pm or the flush will not work.
Step 3. At 6:00 pm, drink 1 cup of the Epsom salt mixture.
It's going to taste awful but try your best!
You cannot add anything to make it taste better or you will compromise the cleanse results.
Using a straw makes it easier to drink.
Step 4. At 8:00 pm, drink another 1 cup of Epsom salt mixture.
At this point, THE ONLY THING you should be doing is resting, laying down, or sleeping.
Step 5. At 9:45 pm, juice the large grapefruit and remove all the seeds.
If you dislike pulp, strain it out. Mix the grapefruit juice (or the juice of 3 lemons) with ½ cup of olive oil in a jar or shaker cup until very well combined.
This should be ½ cup of olive oil and a ½ cup of fresh grapefruit juice or lemon juice.
Step 6. At 10:00 pm, drink the grapefruit mixture within 5 minutes. You can use a straw to make it easier. I recommend actually tasting the mixture because the bitter flavor will stimulate the release of bile.
Step 7. Immediately after drinking the grapefruit mixture, lay down in bed on your right side with your right knee up towards your chin for 20 minutes WITHOUT MOVING.
This is super important.
Step 8. After 20 minutes, try to sleep on your right side for the rest of the night. Really try not to move if possible.
Day 7 of the Liver Cleanse
Step 1. The next morning when you wake up, drink ½ cup of Epsom salt mixture and relax.
Try not to overexert yourself at all. Lay down in bed and rest.
Step 2. 2 hours later, drink the last ½ cup of Epsom salt mixture. Rest.
Step 3. After drinking the epsom salt mixture, wait another 2 hours before eating ANYTHING, not even fresh fruit, after this last dose.
You're almost there!
Step 4. Once 2 hours are up, begin with a liquid diet of fruit juice or a pure fruit smoothie that is slightly runny (you can dilute this with water or apple juice).
Slowly incorporate fresh fruit throughout the day, then to light meals that include veggies and light broth.
You should feel pretty normal again by dinnertime but some people may feel worn out up to two days after the cleanse.
Follow the cleanse by eating a clean and healthy diet.
I have found great benefits in making fresh vegetable juices high in vitamin c, beta carotene, and antioxidants by adding turmeric, beets, cucumbers, spinach, kale, fresh citrus, and, of course, apples, to a juicer and having it every morning.
If you want the fiber, don't strain the juice afterward.
Alternatively, you can opt to blend some of these ingredients into your daily smoothie.
Drinking lemon water upon waking is also a great habit to get into after a cleanse as it helps with constipation and other gastrointestinal stagnancy.
You can learn more in the video below:
What to Expect After Flushing Your Liver and Gallbladder
The morning you finish up the cleanse is when you can expect to experience some intestinal cleansing effects.
Sometimes these symptoms can occur soon after drinking the Epsom salt mixture; other times it can take all day to feel the effects.
Most people will experience some degree of diarrhea or bloating on this cleanse, which is totally normal due to the Epsom salts.
Another aspect many people experience is the elimination of several to sometimes hundreds of gallstones. These appear as pea shaped green "stones" that may sink or float during elimination and are made up of cholesterol and bilirubin.
There is a lot of debate about whether these genuinely are gallstones, and not everyone eliminates them. Still, one thing is clear, most everyone who has done a liver flush correctly has experienced incredible results.
Other symptoms, especially if you're new to fasting and cleansing, include fatigue, nausea, and vomiting.
Weight loss is another effect of this cleanse due to the restricted calories.
If you stay rested and take it easy, you should be fine. Remember, this cleanse is about REST. You shouldn't be puttering around town or cleaning the house, or chasing after a toddler. The key is lots of rest!
Best of luck, everyone!
Frequently Asked Questions About Doing a Liver Cleanse
What to eat on a liver cleanse?
Some of the best healthy foods to consume during a liver cleanse include:
- Like spinach and kale, leafy greens contain vitamins and minerals that help support liver health.
- Citrus fruits like lemons, oranges, and grapefruit contain antioxidants that help neutralize harmful toxins.
- Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, and radishes possess anti-inflammatory properties that can help protect your liver.
- Whole grains such as quinoa and oats provide energy without overworking your liver.
- Lean proteins such as egg whites and fish provide essential nutrients for the body's detoxification processes without being too heavy.
What can I drink to flush my liver?
Drinking unfiltered organic apple juice is a great way to get malic acid into your diet to support liver health. Malic acid does this by boosting transport enzyme activity, reducing the fat that can accumulate around the liver, and increasing short-chain fatty acids essential for metabolizing fats and carbs.
You can also drink fresh vegetable juices to support a healthy body in general while eliminating unhealthy foods.
What is the fastest way to cleanse your liver?
Doing a liver and gallbladder flush using epsom salts, grapefruit juice, and olive oil. While intense, it's the fastest way to cleanse the liver thoroughly.
How can I detox my liver at home?
You can detox the liver at home by doing a liver and gallbladder flush, changing your lifestyle to support health and well-being by eating healthy, sleeping well, staying hydrated, avoiding toxins, or taking liver-supportive supplements like milk thistle and dandelion root.
What is the best homemade liver cleanse?
The best homemade liver cleanse will be the one you can comfortably commit to.
If you can take a good two weeks to stick to strict protocol and you are looking for fast results, a liver and gallbladder flush may be what you're looking for.
If you want to go slow and steady, then eating a healthier diet and taking liver-supportive herbs like milk thistle and dandelion root may be the route for you.
Have you ever done a liver cleanse? How did it turn out?
For more articles on liver support, look below:
How to Detox your Liver for the New Year with Herbs!
Healing Acne- The Herbalist's Way Part 3
Can You Balance Hormones with Carrots? + a Recipe!
3 Ways to do a Liver Flush
Robert says
There is way too much fear around this and fasting. I’ve been doing this fast and the master cleanse for 20 years fasting up to 28 days. For the liver cleanse I’ve never done any apple juice or cider. I think this is new and was not part of it 20 years ago. I’ve never had a problem with stones or pain. Stomach cramps or vomiting I would push through it. Your almost through it anyway. Your gonna be just fine. I have done it several times in one year and known others to do ever 2 weeks or monthly until the little balls get smaller. Mine never went away just got smaller. I don’t always follow the protocol very precisely and it works every time. The day after is intense. A lovely intense. I feel deeply connected to myself and like to revel in the exhausted euphoric state that lasts most of the day. Next day I’m back to normal only feeling better. Good Luck and don’t even worry about it. It’s just a fast. People who talk about the dangers of fasting have very little experience with fasting.
BRidgette Reid says
Hi there, thanks for posting this, really great content,
Questions do I need to do a colon or parasite detox first? also is it effective to do a colonic the day of the detox or the day after?
thanks again
x b
Paola says
Hi Tash, Thank you for taking your time to create this blog. I was browsing different sites and i found this blog very interesting. Last week I had an ultrasound done and found that I have gallstones and fatty liver. I was wondering if this cleanse would help me.
Tash says
Hi, Paola!
I always recommend caution when considering this cleanse. If a gallstone should get stuck during the flush, the consequences can be dire.
Dr Stephen Moss says
Hey Tash
I just wanted to thank you for all your dedication to this blog.
I am a regular flusher, once a year at least, and find it a useful part of a relatively healthy eating regime.
My wife is medical and thinks I am crazy doing this, but hey, each to their own (40 years married) - I just wanted to thank you for your dedicatioon to this blog.
Stephen
Angela says
Can I do this Cleanse if I didn’t eat the apples for five days? My diet is pretty clean I would say but I have been feeling swollen an I feel like doing it one. Thanks for answering
loretta says
Did my liver flush for the third time in 6 weeks. Thousands of stones come out everytime as the first time. Wondering when it will lessen.
Tash says
Hi Loretta! I would recommend giving your body a rest. this cleanse should really only be done maybe once a year.
Zoe says
Hi I don't have gallstones but have been drinking alot, will this help? X
Tash says
It can help, but don't take this cleanse lightly! I would recommend perhaps looking into milk thistle or turmeric supplements to see if those will work for you better.
Sophia says
Hello,
Thanks for good blogg. I would highly recommend people reading Andrea's Moritz "miraculous gallbladder and Liver cleanse".
And also super important, don't forget to do you enemas before and after. Or the toxic waste might get reabsorbed in colum...
This is a very important step and should not be dismissed, especially the enema following up the flush.
It's simple to do at home, we have an enema kit and use saltwater.
Thanks,
Sophia
Amy says
I got up in the middle of the night and threw up. Should I continue the flush when I wake up In the morning?
Tash says
If you are ever physically ill during the cleanse, you should stop, as with most things! This cleanse can be really intense, so please listen to your body. Hope you're feeling better!
Erin says
I was just recommended a liver cleanse and found your site. Reading through the comments, I notice some people mention really being careful in terms of passing gallstones and possible side effects.
As far as I'm aware I don't have gallbladder issues, so I don't think being worried about possibly passing stones should be an issue. (Not that I shouldn't be careful!)
Opinion?
Tash says
Any cleanse can be quite risky and this one is no different - it's actually more risky to do because of gallstones. I wrote it because SO many people ask about it but I have to stress that I am not a doctor and you should always make sure to do your own research and be under the care of a doctor. If you decide to do the cleanse pay close attention to your body and how it is feeling. If anything feels wrong along the way (like vomiting etc.) you should stop the cleanse.
I think most people can cleanse the liver quite effectively using herbs like turmeric and milk thistle without going through the wringer with this cleanse.
Hiten says
Hi Tash,
Great detailed article. Just found out that i have gallstones and don't want to go through surgery or meds and will follow this flush. would you mind explaining the colonics part after the flush.
Thank you,
Tash says
Hi Hiten!
The colonic is where you would use an enema bag to help flush out the large intestine to help expel excess fecal matter and toxins. It isn't the most pleasant thing to experience, but if you're up for it, you can find the enema bag kits on Amazon. You would then hold the water for as long as is comfortable (try to do it for 20 minutes if you can) and then expel the water. You can repeat the enema 1-2 more times. Doing this helps further cleanse the body and help it get rid of toxins after the liver flush.
Jen says
Hi Tash
I have a 14year old son who has bad acne, could this be safe for him and help with getting rid of his acne or at least lessening it? I wouldn’t do it if it’s risky for him. I am going to do the cleanse first so I know what to expect but just wanted to hear your thoughts on teens doing it. Thanks
Tash says
Hi Jen!
This cleanse is a bit strong even for adults so I wouldn't have him do it since it could be pretty uncomfortable. Maybe if he were older! You may want to look into milk thistle capsules instead if you want to cleanse his liver. it's a safe herb and it won't make him feel sick!
Nutritional Consultant says
Your not wrong that this is intense, and can be incredibly dangerous, if gallstones have not been broken down sufficiently (i.e. preferably to dust like particles) they can then become lodged in either the Cystic Duct or the Bile Duct (these tubes are incredibly small) depending on where they become lodged this can cause major problems for the pancreas as the Main Pancreatic Duct and Sphinctor are attached to the Bile Duct if this happens it can cause the pancreas to cease working (very quickly) and can then very quickly lead to heart failure.
The risk is that unless you have very recently had a scan that will detect the amount and size of gallstones you are completely unaware until it all goes terribly wrong that the gallstones cannot pass through the very small tubes to hopefully find their way to the duodenum. Even if you are confident that you know the size (pre-cleanse), you still can't possibly know if they have reduced sufficiently to pass during or at the end of the cleanse and if they may become lodged on exit of the gallbladder, irrespective of the amount of oil you may have consumed, the size, shape and amount of gallstones (information that you probably won't have) may well dictate if they can pass or not.
Apple juice alone over a period of 1-5 days is rarely enough time to breakdown or sufficiently reduce the size of gallstones, and is not the best product to use to breakdown gallstones.
As a Clinical Nutritionist and have extensively studied Anatomy, Physiology and Biochemistry, I would seriously urge anyone with gallstones to thoroughly do their research before attempting such a cleanse. I can say with confidence that gallstones are easy to treat effectively using safe methods to reduce and even eliminate them and also treat the cause of the gallstones in the first place, just expelling them does not resolve the cause, for if you do not treat the cause they will return.
Tash says
Yes!! This is all very true! I always try and warn people that this cleanse isn't a walk in the park nor is it a joke! Thank you for your informed comment!
Rujing says
Hmm but the stones I’ve passed, which vary in color from tan to emerald green, are much larger than dustlike particles. Some are pea or marble sized. There has been no pain.
victor says
Hello
1-what does 4 TB epson salt mean?
I mean TB?
2-heard that before and after liver cleansing you have to do intestine and colon cleansing
And if you don't do that the liver cleansing results bad effectsand the toxin will come back to body from intestine?
Yhus we have to do intestine cleanse immediately after liver cleanse.
Right???
Tash says
Hi Victor!
1 TB (tablespoon) is about 15 grams. And yes, it is a good idea to also cleanse the colon after. Even an at-home enema will help 🙂
DF725 says
Hi Tash,
I am considering doing this cleanse. Could elaborate on what you mean by ‘this is an intense cleanse’ ?
Also, specifically, what can I expect during the actual cleanse days and the day or so after? You mention possible vomiting and diarrhea on the actual cleanse days- especially if the instructions aren’t followed exactly. But what can I reasonably expect to happen if I follow all instructions to the letter?
Tash says
Hi DF725!
By intense, I mean that for those who are sensitive, it can make you feel nauseated. Essentially, you're drinking a bunch of Epsom salts and a concoction of grapefruit juice and olive oil which isn't the most appetizing thing for most people. I just like to warn people beforehand so that they aren't;t taken by surprise. Most people actually do just fine doing this cleanse and typically just experience loose bowels (because of the epsom salts) and hunger since they can't eat anything for a while during the cleanse. Additionally, if you do the cleanse while comfortably at home where you can rest and not feel rushed or stressed while doing it, it more often than not goes really well. Since I write health-related content, I just have to be mindful to let everyone know what CAN happen.
I hope your cleanse goes well!
Julia says
Will this aid with anxiety and weight loss?
Tash says
Hi Julie!
I think cleansing the liver can definitely help with digestion and anxiety because it will assimilate nutrients more readily and also detox pent up negative emotions - including anxiety. 🙂 However, this cleanse is not a joke! It's pretty intense, so think it through before deciding to do it!
Julia says
So I am on day 6 of the flush and just mixed my epsom salt mixture at about 3:45, should I still drink the mixture at 6 or should I wait the remaining time until 7:45?
Sandy says
Hello is this cleanse good for a fatty liver?
Tash says
Hi Sandy!
It should be fine, but I will warn you that this cleanse isn't for the faint of heart! Listen to YOUR body! 🙂
Emma says
Can I drink water throughout the flush?
Tash says
Yes, you can! 🙂
Paola says
Hi, i also have a fatty live, was wondering if you tried this cleanse, and if worked?
Shane says
Can we have dairy and coffee during the 11 days?
Tash says
Hi Shane!
I would avoid the dairy. The coffee might be alright as long as you aren't adding anything to it.
Joshua says
Hey!!! So I am unclear as to the time frame btw eating breakfast and than the 2:00pm period where you cannot eat anymore...what is that time frame...when do you eat breakfast...for example if at 6am than 8 hour period, if at 8 than 6 hour period?
Tash says
Great Question Joshua!
I would just eat breakfast when you normally would in the morning. Shoot for giving your body a few hours to digest before you hit the 2:00 PM mark. I would probably eat breakfast before 10am to give you an idea. The key is to just jump start your liver and get it to produce bile.
Richard Law says
Hi,
I am a little confuse with 4TB Epsom salt what does it means ,
4 table spoon
4 tea spoon
4 tablets
please help
Richard Law
Tash says
Hi Richard!
1 tablespoon is about 15 grams, so 4 is 60 grams
1 teaspoon is about 5 grams, so 4 is about 20 grams
Hope this helps!
Arpee says
So is it
4 tablespoon?
Or 4 teaspoon?
Tash says
Hi Arpee!
It's tablespoons 🙂
Lee says
Did you mention doing enemas or colonics before and after the liver flush?
Tash says
You can certainly do that! It would help with elimination. Just be gentle with your body. I would not recommend doing colonics DURING a liver flush as it would be too much for the body and you would probably feel quite ill.
Sisi says
Hi Tash, thanks so much for the recipe! Can't wait to do it.
I may just be reading the comments wrong, but I'm very confused about days 1-5.
Am I fasting on days 1-2, and then days 3-5 are apples and light meat? Or am I eating apples and light meat days 1-3 and fasting on days 4-5?
When fasting, am I still consuming apple juice?
Tash says
Hi Sisi!
I just updated the instruction to make them more clear! 🙂 Best of luck, it's a doozy!
Ange says
Hi Tash - thanks for such a clear and interesting article. I've just followed all the steps for the liver cleanse, and day 6 was yesterday. It's been such an interesting experience. Yesterday evening (the flush day) after drinking the epsom salts and then the oil and citrus juice, I felt really nauseous and I wondered if I was doing it right. But I persevered and today the results have been amazing. I've never seen gallstones before - but now I have. Feeling really good. Your article was one of the clearest I've read about what to do and when - and it gave me confidence. Thanks so much. I'm curious though - does everyone have gallstones, even people who eat a largely plant based diet?
Tash says
Hi Ange!
That's definitely a debatable topic! While I think a lot of people DO have gallstones (due to poor diet, genetic predisposition, high cholesterol, and so on), not everyone does. Gallstones can also stay in the gallbladder for quite some time, in some cases, they need to be removed via surgery! Having said this, I would not recommend doing a liver cleanse very often (perhaps once a year, tops) since your body can actually dissolve/excrete gallstones by itself if you lead a healthy lifestyle. This includes eating one raw carrot a day (this helps remove toxins, wastes, and excess hormones from the body), taking bitters before meals (which stimulates the gallbladder to excrete healthy bile), and to eat a diet that focuses on non-inflammatory foods (which lower the risk of developing gallstones).
It sounds like your diet is on the right track! Plant-based is definitely the way to go 🙂 Unless you're eating a lot of junk or gallstones run in your family, you shouldn't have trouble with gallstones in the future.
Great job on completing the liver cleanse! It's a doozy, to say the least!!
Sue T. says
Hi Tash
Please excuse my ignorance but what are bitters? Is it like Angostura Bitters?
Thanks 🙂
Tash says
Hi Sue!
Yes actually, bitters really are like Agostura Bitters but without any of the additives 🙂 They both use the same types of herbs to get a bitter flavor.
Ange says
Thank you so much, Tash!
Linnaia says
Oh crud, I already messed up. 6 pm, drank nearly ALL the epsom salt mixture. Arg! No wonder I'm feeling so nauseuous. Really hoping I can down the other ingredients while I'm feeling like this.
Tash says
Oh no Linnaia!
I hope you're feeling a bit better! Sending you good vibes! Try not to force your body to ingest the other ingredients if you're not feeling well. You can always restart the cleanse at another time.
Rowan says
Can these method clear up my acne? Is the Epsom salt like the regular salt which we add to the food or this is a different one?
Tash says
Hi Rowan!
Epsom salt is definitely different than the salt you use for cooking. You can find epsom salt in the laxative section/muscle pain section at your local health food store or pharmacy. Doing a liver flush can help clear the body of built-up wastes and in turn, help improve the function of your liver. This improved function will then help clear your skin since the liver doesn't have to work so hard to eliminate toxins.
A liver flush is sort of a serious cleanse, so only do it once you feel confident that it's right for you!
Tracy says
Sorry if I'm missing something, but on the first step you mention it is made apples for the 5 days prior Etc and then it says fasting for 2 days before is even better is it one or the other because the next step starts on day three so I'm a little confused. Is it the five days of apples and then two days of fasting and then day 3-5 day step?
Tash says
Hi Tracy!
It's 5 days of apples. However, you CAN choose to completely fast for those last two days. Sorry for the confusion! Just listen to your body 🙂
Tee says
I am thinking to start this cleanse next week. I have a question: do you still consume water during the cleanse? I usually drink a 1-2 gallons when I’m detoxing. Is this ok to continue?
Tash says
Hi Tee!
Yes, you should still drink water 🙂 Continue as you normally would!
Pamela says
Would it be possible to replace the oil for coconut oil? It's just that the thought of drinking pure oil sounds rather unappetizing, but coconut oil has a bit of a better flavor at least...
Tash says
Hi Pamela! I don't see how that shouldn't work. Let me know how it goes 🙂
Jennifer Abels says
I have hormonal acne and I am thinking about doing this flush to help with that. Is this effective for this problem? If so, will results show clearer skin? Thank you!
Tash says
Hi Jennifer!
Cleansing the liver is always a good thing to do when clearing acne. This cleanse can be a bit rough depending on your body, so just tale it easy if you give it a try! Best of luck!
Loren Fenderson says
I have done this exact flush twice now. On Day 6 I have substituted apple juice for the water in making the Epsom salt mixture. Everything else exactly the same.
So much easier getting it down.
I seem to get great results and feel much better doing this flush with the substitution. Any thoughts on this ?
Tash says
Hey, if it works well for you I say do it! There's no point in suffering needlessly amiright? 🙂 This cleanse has always been a doozy for most people so I'm glad you've come across a way to make it work AND taste a bit better. It sounds to me like your results are still great so I don't see any harm making the substitution as long as the apple juice is high quality. Thank you for sharing Loren!
Adam says
Thanks for sharing, I am starting a detox diet and this page has been very informative.
meghan faulkner says
Is this recommended if you have fatty liver?
Tash says
Hi Meghan!
I probably wouldn't do this cleanse if you have a fatty liver only because it can be stressful on the body. Sorry I don't know more!
Jonathan says
yup, been drinking too much alcohol and I think I need a liver cleanse and it doesn't look too difficult.
Great article btw...
Tash says
Thanks Jonathan! Best of luck!
Laura says
Hi
Do you eat on days 3-5 as well as drinking the apple juice every few hours or just drink the juice?
Thanks
Tash says
Hi Laura!
Yes, but you would keep it light and very clean 🙂
Michael Wessely says
Hi Tash!
Thanks for the great article - I'm just on day number 2 of the process. I had the same question as Laura regarding days 3-5 - do. you only drink the apple juice or do you drink it in addition to eating apples? How much juice each time roughly?
Tash says
Sorry for the confusion Michael! You can drink just the apple juice (make sure it's unfiltered so you get the pectin and fiber) 1-2 cups every 2-3 waking hours. If you don't want to be drinking apple juice, you can always take malic acid instead with filtered water (500mg 3x a day) 🙂 If you feel any discomfort then stop the malic acid.
Dipika says
Hi, can I drink water after 10pm olive oil dose . As I m breatfeeding so I need water for whole night .
Tash says
Hi Dipika!
I'm not sure if this cleanse is recommended while breastfeeding due to the potential toxins your body will be releasing. I do know that you have to follow the cleanse to a T or it may not yield the results you are looking for. Best of luck!
Sally says
What if you had your gallbladder removed
Tash says
Hi Sally!
If you have had your gallbladder removed then you don't need to do this cleanse. You could just use liver supporting herbs like turmeric and milk thistle daily to help revitalize the liver 🙂
Marika Bezuidenhout says
My mom did the liver cleanse without a gallbladder and had excellent results. She was really really tired all the time and mostly was just lying
on her bed(not her nature). The inside of her hands were yellow and then the white of her eyes started looking yellow to me, then I gave her the liver cleanse to do . She felt a million dollars afterwards. Months later she was tested medically for something else and they said she previously had jaundice, but she was never treated for that. People who had a lot of anger should also do liver cleanses, anger resides in the liver
Tash says
That's amazing Marika! So glad she felt so much better afterward 🙂
Mrs. Smith says
Maybe I've missed something, but I see that you mix the Epsom with 3c. Water, however the dosages only total up to 2 cups worth. 3/4c. at 6, 3/4 c. at 9, and then two 1/4 c. doses. Do you not take the full 3 cups?
Tash says
Hi Mrs. Smith!
You're right! I have updated the post 🙂
crystal says
could u take the calm which is a magnesium drink instead of Epsom salt
Tash says
Hi Crystal!
Epsom salts are used because they are the best at dilating the ducts leading from the gallbladder. I'm not sure how effective using natural calm would be for this purpose, but I DO know that if your ducts do not dilate enough, you may risk injury because the gallstones may get stuck.
Payton says
Sounds intense!! On day 6, do you not eat anything after the light breakfast, and then nothing till the next day?
Tash says
Hi Payton!
It IS intense! Definitely something you wouldn't do if you have to go to work. On day 6, all you eat is the light breakfast. That's it! No more eating especially after 2:00pm.
MRS. PINNOCK says
GOOD ONE TASH! I KNOW ABOUT THIS, AND I USED IT TO EXPEL HUNDREDS OF STONES FROM MY MUM, SOME TWO YEARS BACK, WHEN SHE HAD SOME SERIOUS PAINS FROM GALLSTONES ATTACK, INFLAMED LIVER AND THE REST. AFTER USING MY MUM TO EXPERIMENT THE EFFICACY OF THIS LIVER CLEANSE, I DID IT FOR MYSELF, MY HUSBAND, AND I'VE BEEN DOING IT FOR SEVERAL OTHERS EVER SINCE. IT TRULY WORKS. I'M PRESENTLY NURSING A BABY, BUT WILL FIND TIME TO DO IT, AFTER NURSING.
Tash says
I'm happy to hear about your success stories using this liver cleanse Mrs. Pinnock! Thank you for sharing with us 🙂
Alison says
Hi! Thank you for sharing the information, just had a quick question as to the purpose of the oil. Thank you!
Tash says
Hi Alison!
Consuming fats stimulates the gallbladder to release bile. The large amount of oil used in this cleanse it what causes the gallbladder to expel the "stones" 🙂
Lindsey Dietz says
I've actually done this twice with great results!
Tash says
That's great Lindsey!
Linda Petersen Spiker says
Wow. Lot's of great info. Pinned to my Health and Wellness board!
Tash says
Thank you Linda!
RecipestoNourish says
I've never done a liver cleanse before, so interesting! I am taking a liver detox supplement for supporting my liver though. Thanks for sharing how to do the cleanse.
Tash says
I usually go the liver supplement route myself 🙂
Sarah (@Polithealth) says
This is good to know. With where I am in my health journey, it doesn't make sense for me to do a cleanse, but I appreciate you sharing this information 🙂
Tash says
You're very welcome Sarah!
Caitlin says
I have always wondered about liver cleansing! This doesn't sound as scary as I thought it'd be.
Megan Stevens says
I've always wondered if there are fruit-free liver cleanses for those who can't have fruit? I know a bone broth diet, and raw milk diet both provide cleanses, too. Maybe that's the answer. I'm fruit-free. Thanks for walking us through the process, and for the encouragement in the post.
Tash says
Oh! What an interesting thought Megan! I'll have to look into this!
99 says
I was thinking of replacing the citrus with
Pottassium citrate
At what dosage would I need
Tash says
Hi 99,
I looked into this, but I couldn't find any definitive answer on the topic. it seems like taking potassium citrate can have a lot of side effects as well. maybe ask your general practitioner?
Raising Natural Kids says
I have been wanting to try one myself and haven't loved some of the other 'recipes' I've seen for doing one. I will try this - thank you!
Tash says
Best of luck! It can be an interesting experience but from what I've heard, most people feel good afterward.