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A very effective method of detoxing the body that can be used alone or in conjunction with fasting and/or herbs is sweating. This is done through the use of saunas, steam rooms, and hot baths.

Profuse therapeutic sweating is one of the most natural ways to assist your bodies natural detoxification because perspiration is designed to eliminate waste from your body. Skin has been called the "third kidney" for its incredible waste removal capabilities.

The increase in body temperature caused by these techniques induces an artificial fever. This increase in temperature leads to an increased immune system function, increased production of white blood cells, increased metabolism, and increased heart rate and blood flow. Many believe that toxins lodge in fat cells beneath the skins surface. Sweating is the easiest and closest exit point for these toxins.

Although steam rooms and hot baths can feel hotter because of the humidity, the temerature is actually lower and much of the water you feel on your body is condensation rather than sweat. For this reason, many experts recommend FIR infrared saunas instead. In addition, infrared saunas are more energy efficient, offer a high comfort level, and usually provide a deeper penetration of heat which in turn provides a more substantial detox.

Dr. Mercola recommends far-infrared saunas and even includes instructions on how to build your own simple sauna for home use for under $75.

If you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant please exercise caution when using steam, saunas, hot tubs, or baths. Hyperthermia (increase in body temperature) is linked with fetal neural tube defects especially during the early weeks of pregnancy. Some countries like Germany routinely recommend the use of saunas for pregnant women so blanket statements certainly do not apply, but if you do decide to use a sauna, do not spend more than 10-12 minutes in the heat and then be sure to cool down completely.