Body detoxification and cleansing
Use of drugs and supplements for detoxification and cleansing of the liver, vessels, or lungs, and for removal of «toxins», «parasite biofilms», or heavy metals in adults without a clinical indication. Covers prophylactic hepatoprotection, vessel-cleansing supplements, antiparasitic programs, smoker's lung cleansing, and heavy-metal chelation without confirmed poisoning. Evidence base is limited or absent.
25 drugs
Also known as: detox, body cleanse, cleansing, Liver detox
Marketing claims without evidence base
The drug is promoted for these uses outside international guidelines. Each entry below is analyzed against AEMPS, FDA, EMA, Cochrane and major RCTs.
- DChlorophyll (chlorophyllin copper-sodium complex)Not recommended · Plant pigment; in supplements as natural chlorophyll (E140) and the water-soluble copper-sodium complex chlorophyllin (E141). In the European Union it is registered as a food colourant under Regulation (EC) 1333/2008. On iHerb, Amazon and in Spanish herbolarios «liquid chlorophyll» is sold as detox, a source of «liquid sunshine», anti-age, and an acne remedy. AEMPS does not register it as a medicine; AESAN classifies it as a complemento alimenticio without therapeutic indication. FDA has a single OTC-approved use – internal deodorant for ostomy, ileostomy, and incontinence (21 CFR 357.850, Derifil 100 mg)Copper-sodium chlorophyllin is a semi-synthetic derivative of chlorophyll, the green plant pigment. It is sold as drops, tablets and supplements for "detox" and "cleansing the body" of toxins. Studies have not shown convincing benefit for this use, and there is no evidence base for "flushing out toxins" in a healthy person: the liver and kidneys handle that on their own. If something specific bothers you (body odor, digestive trouble, fatigue), look for the cause with a doctor instead of relying on a "cleanse". The substance itself is harmless in this role, but taking it in place of treatment with proven benefit can cost you time that effective therapy would have used.
- DEssential phospholipidsNot recommended · Liver therapy (local classification)Essential phospholipids (sold as Essentiale, Essliver) are cell-membrane components often marketed for "detox" and "cleansing the body" of toxins. Studies have not shown a clear benefit for this use: the liver and kidneys clear the body on their own, and "toxins" or "slag" is not a concept evidence-based medicine works with. If you are worried about your liver, the answer is not a cleanse but finding the actual cause with a doctor, whether that is alcohol, excess weight or viral hepatitis.
- DHorsetailNot recommended · Botanical supplement, aerial parts of Equisetum arvense (field horsetail), source of silica and flavonoids; in the EU registered as a traditional-use herbal medicinal product (EMA HMPC) for mild diuretic effect; sold on iHerb as silica for «skin, hair and nails»Horsetail (Equisetum arvense) is an herb with a mild diuretic effect, sold as a remedy for "detox" and "cleansing" the body. Its benefit for this specific use has not been shown – there is no convincing evidence for horsetail-based "detoxification". The body clears waste on its own through the liver and kidneys, and you support them with enough water, sleep, and a balanced diet.
- DL-glutamine (free amino acid)Not recommended · Conditionally essential amino acid; the main nitrogen source for nucleotide synthesis and fuel for enterocytes and immune cells. Normally supplied by dietary protein (meat, fish, eggs, dairy, legumes) and synthesised in skeletal muscle. Supplements market it as a remedy for «leaky gut», post-workout recovery, immune support in cancer patients, and a sugar-craving reducer. Neither AEMPS nor EMA registers it for supplement indications; a specialty drug exists (Endari, L-glutamine, FDA-approved) for sickle-cell disease to reduce pain-crisis frequency – this is a specialised clinical niche, not a supplement. AESAN classifies general L-glutamine supplements as complementos alimenticios.L-glutamine is heavily marketed on iHerb and Amazon as a detox aid, leaky-gut repair and immune support in healthy adults. EFSA rejected the proposed health claims for glutamine: in 2009 for immune function and intestinal-barrier integrity (leaky gut), and in 2011 for muscle mass; the submitted data did not establish a cause-and-effect relationship. There are no high-quality RCTs on leaky gut in healthy people, and medicine does not use the concept of supplement-driven detox. If a friend or shop offers glutamine under these claims, discuss the request with a gastroenterologist or dietitian and consider a second opinion.
- DSilymarin (Silybum marianum)Not recommended · Plant antioxidant from milk thistle fruits; IV silibinin is an antidote in Amanita phalloides poisoningSilymarin is the active compound of milk thistle extract. It is widely marketed for "detox" and "cleansing" the body. Studies have not shown convincing benefit for this use: the idea of "toxins" that a supplement clears out has no evidence base, and the liver and kidneys clear metabolites on their own. Silymarin is harmless in this role, but there is no benefit to expect from it. When there is a real problem with the liver or another organ, what helps is testing and treating the cause, not "cleansing." This product does not replace therapy with proven benefit, so taking it instead of prescribed treatment is risky because of the time lost.
- DSlippery elm (inner bark)Not recommended · Over-the-counter botanical supplement, the inner bark of Ulmus rubra (slippery elm, a North American tree); a mucilage demulcent with traditional use for irritation of the gastrointestinal and throat mucosaSlippery elm inner bark is sold as a tea or powder for "detox" and "cleansing" the body of toxins. Studies have not shown convincing benefit for this use: there is no evidence base for detoxification with this plant. The idea of "flushing out toxins" with supplements is not supported, since the liver, kidneys and gut already handle normal metabolites and toxins. The bark is rich in mucilage and can coat mucous membranes, which is why it is studied for throat irritation and digestive discomfort, but that is a separate indication.
- DSpirulinaNot recommended · Cyanobacterium (Arthrospira platensis / maxima), supplement, plant protein source, marketed as «detox» and «superfood»Spirulina is a blue-green algae sold as a supplement and often marketed for detox and body cleansing. There is no convincing evidence for this use: good-quality studies do not show that spirulina removes toxins or cleanses the body. The liver and kidneys already clear metabolites and foreign substances, so no special detox product is needed for that. If you have a real health problem, do not use spirulina in place of treatment with proven benefit, because that can mean missing the care you need.
- DStinging nettle leafNot recommended · Botanical supplement, stinging nettle leaf (Urtica dioica folium); in the EU registered as a traditional-use herbal medicinal product (EMA HMPC) for mild rheumatic pain and as a diuretic; sold on iHerb for «blood detox» and immunity. NOTE: nettle root (Urtica dioica radix) is a different product, indicated for benign prostatic hyperplasiaStinging nettle leaf is sold as a way to "detox" or "cleanse" the body, usually in teas, infusions, and supplements. Studies have not shown a convincing benefit for this use, and there is no evidence base for "flushing out toxins". The liver and kidneys clear the body on their own, so a healthy person does not need separate "detox courses".
- DStinging nettle root (Urtica dioica, radix)Not recommended · Plant extract, supplement. In EU – traditional herbal medicinal product per EMA HMPC monograph 2010 for BPH symptoms; AEMPS does not register as monomedicineStinging nettle root is a plant remedy promoted for "detox" and "cleansing" the body. There is no convincing evidence for this use: the idea of flushing out "toxins" with nettle has no supporting data. The body clears itself through the liver and kidneys, and when these work normally, extra "detox" products are not needed. The plant is harmless in this role, but do not take it instead of treatment with proven benefit, so you do not miss the care you actually need.
- FAdemetionineNot recommended · Amino acids and derivatives. Hepatoprotective agent– Liver 'detox' and cleansing: The idea of 'liver cleansing with Heptral' is actively promoted in retail. 'Cleansing' is not a clinical state – the liver performs its own detoxification and does not accumulate 'toxins'. Evidence-based ways to help the liver are removing the cause of damage (alcohol, hepatotoxic drugs, obesity, viral hepatitis), not 'detoxing' with drugs.
- FAtorvastatinNot recommended · HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins)– Vessel cleansing: 'Vessel cleansing' is not a concept used in international clinical guidelines. Statins are prescribed based on cardiovascular risk stratification, not for 'cleansing'. The idea of mechanically 'removing plaques' with a drug contradicts pharmacokinetics. The evidence-based benefit of statins is reduced cardiovascular mortality via plaque stabilization and LDL reduction, not 'dissolution'.
- FChlorellaNot recommended · Freshwater unicellular green alga (Chlorella vulgaris / pyrenoidosa), supplement, marketed for «mercury detox»Chlorella is actively marketed for «removing mercury from amalgam fillings», «lead detox» and «binding gut toxins». These claims do not withstand scrutiny. The Merritt systematic review (J Med Toxicol 2022) analysed available clinical data on chlorella as a heavy-metal chelator: there are no quality RCTs, epidemiologic studies are small and contradictory, and no data show that chlorella reduces blood or urine mercury in patients after amalgam removal. The American Dental Association and FDA (2020) confirm that amalgam fillings are safe in adults and pregnant women outside risk groups, and no special detox is needed after them. The «heavy-metal removal» concept with chlorella is part of «biological dentistry» (IAOMT), not supported by evidence-based medicine. Real heavy-metal poisoning is treated with registered chelators – dimercaprol, DMSA, EDTA – under toxicology supervision. If chlorella was bought for «post-amalgam detox», discuss with a doctor; the risk of unnecessary intervention outweighs the benefit.
- FClotrimazoleNot recommended · Imidazole derivatives, topical antifungalsClotrimazole is an imidazole antifungal. It is prescribed for cutaneous and mucosal candidiasis and other superficial mycoses (AEMPS Ficha Técnica). In alt detox circles, clotrimazole is occasionally promoted for systemic fungal cleansing in intestinal candidiasis without confirmed diagnosis. Systemic intestinal candidiasis is not recognized as an independent diagnosis in immunocompetent people in international medicine; dysbiosis as an interchangeable concept lacks agreed diagnostic criteria. In people without confirmed invasive candidiasis, no clinical studies of systemic clotrimazole prophylactic use exist, and the drug's oral bioavailability is low – it acts mainly topically. If clotrimazole was prescribed orally for systemic cleansing, consider seeking a second opinion.
- FDeferasiroxNot recommended · Iron chelating agentsDeferasirox is an oral iron chelator. It is prescribed for confirmed iron overload associated with chronic blood transfusions (thalassemia, sickle cell anemia, myelodysplastic syndrome) and hereditary hemochromatosis (AEMPS Ficha Técnica). In alt detox circles, deferasirox is occasionally promoted to remove heavy metals or for iron overload in healthy people without confirmed hyperferritinemia. In healthy adults, no clinical studies of such use exist, and use is dangerous. The drug has serious risks: acute kidney injury, hepatotoxicity up to acute liver failure (FDA boxed warning), gastrointestinal bleeding, and myelosuppression. If deferasirox was prescribed for detox without confirmed iron overload, seek a second opinion immediately.
- FFamotidineNot recommended · H2-histamine receptor antagonistFamotidine is an H2-receptor antagonist. It is prescribed for gastric and duodenal peptic ulcer, GERD, and stress ulcer prophylaxis (AEMPS Ficha Técnica). In alt detox circles, famotidine is occasionally promoted for stomach protection in healthy people without a confirmed diagnosis. In people without peptic ulcer disease or GERD, no clinical studies of prophylactic use exist. The drug is relatively safe but on long-term use can cause vitamin B12 deficiency (via reduced gastric acidity), decreased calcium and iron absorption, and confusion in older adults. If famotidine is being taken for detox or stomach protection without confirmed diagnosis, consider seeking a second opinion.
- FGlutathioneNot recommended · Tripeptide antioxidant (γ-glutamyl-cysteinyl-glycine); cofactor of glutathione S-transferaseGlutathione is a key marketing word for «detox»: «removes toxins», «binds heavy metals», «cleans lymph». Evidence-based medicine does not use the lay concept of toxins; healthy liver and kidneys clear the blood without supplements. AESAN and EFSA classify «detox» claims as unsubstantiated health claims. NIH ODS 2023 does not support routine GSH use. Specific symptoms (weakness, oedema, right upper quadrant discomfort) require in-person clinical assessment, not a supplement course.
- FGlycerolNot recommended · Rectal laxative, osmotic and stimulantEnemas and rectal laxatives are sold as «bowel cleansing»: a course before a diet, «removal of toxins», preparation for a «body reset». Glycerol has no such effect. It empties the rectum and stops there, and there are no accumulated toxins in the bowel to wash out: the contents of the colon are undigested food residue with bacteria, and they leave by themselves. Regular enemas meanwhile alter the usual rhythm of defecation, irritate the lining and create dependence on an external stimulus. The AEMPS ficha técnica asks to avoid chronic use and limits the course to 7 days. If a course of enemas was advised to cleanse the body or prepare for a diet, consider seeking a second opinion.
- FGlycyrrhizic acid + phospholipidsNot recommended · Liver therapy (local classification, «hepatoprotectors»)– Liver 'detox' and cleansing: Phosphogliv is heavily advertised as 'liver protection and cleansing'. No international recommendations exist for this indication because 'liver cleansing' itself is absent from evidence-based medicine. Prolonged use also carries a real risk of pseudo-aldosteronism – sodium retention, potassium loss, blood pressure elevation.
- FIndapamideNot recommended · Thiazide-like diureticsIndapamide is a thiazide-like diuretic. It is prescribed for hypertension (ESC/ESH 2023, SEH-LELHA). In alt detox circles, indapamide is occasionally promoted to remove excess fluid in people with normal blood pressure. In people without hypertension, no clinical studies of such use exist; a diuretic in healthy people causes volume imbalance. The drug has specific risks: hypokalemia, hyponatremia (especially in older adults, sometimes severe, described after several weeks of use), hyperuricemia with gout flare risk, elevated glucose and lipids, and photosensitivity. If indapamide was prescribed for detox in a healthy person, consider seeking a second opinion.
- FIodine (umbrella: potassium iodide, kelp / Fucus vesiculosus)Not recommended · Trace element; substrate of thyroid hormone synthesisIodine and Lugol protocols are heavily marketed for «thyroid detox», «fluoride and bromine clearance» and «general detoxification». Evidence-based medicine recognises no such indications. AESAN and EFSA classify detox claims as unsubstantiated health claims. NIH ODS 2024: milligram iodine doses in people with normal thyroids cause iodine-induced hypothyroidism and thyrotoxicosis (Jod-Basedow phenomenon). AEMPS issued an official 2014 warning about self-administered high-dose risk. Iodine does no «detox» – healthy liver and kidneys clear the blood on their own. Specific symptoms require TSH, free T4, antibodies and endocrinology assessment.
- FMagnesium hydroxideNot recommended · Magnesium-based antacid and osmotic laxativeMagnesia has long been sold as a way to «cleanse the body»: a liver flush, a bowel clean-out before a diet, a course «to remove toxins». Magnesium hydroxide does none of that. It neutralizes stomach acid and pulls water into the bowel, and that is all. The liver and kidneys filter the blood by themselves, and no pharmacy substance speeds that up. The price of the course, though, is real: taking an osmotic laxative for days loses fluid, sodium and potassium, and in people with impaired kidney function it causes hypermagnesemia. The AEMPS ficha técnica asks plainly to avoid chronic use. If magnesia was recommended as a course to cleanse the body or the liver, consider seeking a second opinion.
- FMagnesium sulfateNot recommended · Magnesium salt: intravenous solution and oral saline laxativeMagnesium drips and Epsom salt flushes are sold as a cleanse for the vessels, the liver and the body's toxins. The indications for magnesium sulfate in the AEMPS label are listed by name: torsade de pointes, hypomagnesaemia and the hypokalaemia linked to it, parenteral nutrition, eclampsia. Toxin removal is not on that list, and no clinical studies of such an effect exist. The risk, meanwhile, is real: intravenous magnesium drops blood pressure, brings flushing and nausea, depresses breathing in overdose, and in someone with reduced kidney function it accumulates within hours. Oral magnesium sulfate causes diarrhoea and dehydration, which then get sold as the cleanse working. A separate layer is interactions: the label names potentiation of muscle relaxants, potentiation by nifedipine and particular caution in patients on cardiac glycosides. If a magnesium drip has been offered for cleansing, consider seeking a second opinion from another doctor.
- FSodium bicarbonateNot recommended · Systemic alkalinizing agent, antacidSoda is sold as a way to «alkalinize the body»: an alkaline diet, alkaline water, soda on an empty stomach – with a promise that tumours do not grow in an alkaline environment. The systematic review by Fenton and Huang (BMJ Open 2016) looked for a link between dietary acid load, alkaline water and cancer and found not a single study supporting it. Biology does not allow it either: blood pH is held between 7.35 and 7.45 by buffer systems, the lungs and the kidneys, and drinking soda does not shift it. Something else does shift: soda easily produces metabolic alkalosis, sodium retention, edema and hypokalemia, and ruptures of the stomach wall are described on a full stomach. If soda was recommended as a course for alkalinizing or cancer prevention, consider seeking a second opinion.
- FTorasemideNot recommended · Loop diuretic – sulfonamide derivativeTorasemide is a loop diuretic. It is prescribed for edema in heart failure, cirrhosis, nephrotic syndrome, and for hypertension (ESC 2024, AEMPS Ficha Técnica). In alt circles, torasemide is occasionally promoted for detox and removal of excess fluid in healthy adults. In people without edema, no clinical studies of such use exist; diuretics in healthy people cause volume imbalance. The drug has serious risks: hypokalemia (dangerous for cardiac rhythm), hyponatremia, dehydration, orthostatic hypotension, prerenal azotemia, hyperuricemia with gout flare risk, and elevated glucose and lipids. If torasemide was prescribed for detox in a healthy person, consider seeking a second opinion.
- FUrsodeoxycholic acidNot recommended · Bile acid preparations– Liver 'detox' and cleansing: Cyclic «liver cleansing» with ursodeoxycholic acid in people without established disease is marketing-driven and lacks an evidence base. The liver does not require pharmacological «cleansing». Elevated ALT/AST warrants differential workup (viral hepatitis, MASLD, alcohol, drug-induced injury, autoimmune disease) – the cause is treated.
How to read tiers A–F
Evidence tiers belong to the drug-indication pair, not to the drug as a whole: the same substance can be A for one condition and F for another.
- AStrong evidence – first or second line in international guidelines
- BRecommended in selected cases
- CStudy data contradict each other
- DBenefit not proven, no documented harm
- FDocumented harm, or risk without benefit