Detoxing with the Earth: Simple Spring Cleansing with Herbs
As the earth awakens from winter’s stillness, we too feel the pull to clear away what’s stagnant and make space for new energy. In herbal traditions across cultures, spring is a natural time for gentle cleansing—a way to support the body’s innate detoxification processes and realign with seasonal rhythms.
But unlike harsh detox fads or restrictive protocols, earth-based cleansing is rooted in nourishment, balance, and relationship with the plants. It’s less about forcing the body to “purge” and more about encouraging it to release what’s no longer needed, while restoring vitality and resilience.
Here’s how you can work with herbs, food, and lifestyle practices to support a safe and effective spring cleanse.
Why Cleanse in the Spring?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda, spring corresponds to the liver and gallbladder—organs involved in detoxification and emotional processing. According to Western herbalism, spring herbs like dandelion and nettle gently stimulate these organs, helping to clear accumulated toxins from a long winter of heavier foods, reduced movement, and indoor living.
Modern science supports this approach. The liver plays a central role in metabolizing hormones, processing environmental toxins, and filtering the blood. Supporting liver function with bitter herbs, hydration, and nutrient-dense foods is a time-tested way to optimize overall health.
(National Institutes of Health)
Foundational Herbs for a Gentle Spring Cleanse
Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)
Both the root and leaf are valuable allies. The root supports liver function and bile flow, while the leaf is a natural diuretic, helping to flush excess fluid and support kidney health.
– Use: Teas, tinctures, or fresh leaves in salads
– Source: American Botanical Council
Nettle (Urtica dioica)
Rich in vitamins, minerals, and chlorophyll, nettle helps nourish depleted systems while gently supporting detox pathways. It’s also anti-inflammatory and beneficial for seasonal allergies.
– Use: Infusions, capsules, or added to broths
– Source: University of Maryland Medical Center
Burdock Root (Arctium lappa)
A deeply grounding and blood-purifying herb, burdock supports lymphatic drainage and skin health—two common detox pathways.
– Use: Decoctions (simmered teas), tinctures, or roasted root as food
– Source: Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects
Cleavers (Galium aparine)
Often overlooked, cleavers are one of the best lymphatic herbs available in early spring. They help move stagnant fluid and assist with skin conditions and swollen glands.
– Use: Fresh tincture or cold infusions
– Source: Medical Herbalism by David Hoffmann
How to Begin a Gentle Herbal Cleanse
You don’t need extreme measures to see results. A spring cleanse should be sustainable, supportive, and nourishing. Here’s a simple protocol to get started:
Morning Nettle Infusion – Steep 1 oz of dried nettle in a quart jar overnight. Strain and sip throughout the next day for deep mineral nourishment.
Bitters Before Meals – Use a blend of dandelion root, burdock, and gentian in tincture form before meals to stimulate digestion and bile flow.
Supportive Meals – Focus on seasonal greens (dandelion, arugula, beet greens), clean proteins, and warm broths. Avoid processed foods, sugar, and excess caffeine.
Lymphatic Movement – Dry brushing, gentle Qi Gong, walking, and hydration keep things flowing.
Rest and Reflection – Detox isn’t just physical. Journal, sleep deeply, and release what you no longer need emotionally or energetically.
RECIPE - Dandelion, nettle and cleavers cold infusion
A twist on a traditional recipe to brighten skin and for fresh spring nutrition.
© Sarah Cuttle/Kyle Books.
Take a good handful each of cleavers, dandelion leaves and nettles (use gloves for this one!)
Rinse and place in a 1-2 litre jug of cold water.
Leave to infuse overnight.
In the morning, strain and drink the liquid.
*Try it for nine weeks and let us know how your love life is!
Listening to Your Body
Herbal cleansing is never “one-size-fits-all.” If you’re chronically fatigued, underweight, or healing from illness, cleansing may need to be even gentler—or delayed. Always listen to your body’s signals and adjust accordingly.
For those with chronic health concerns, working with an experienced herbalist ensures a plan that supports your unique constitution and goals.
Healing with the Earth, Not Against It
A true spring cleanse is a conversation—with your body, your lifestyle, and the plants that grow at your feet. When we partner with the rhythms of nature, healing becomes less about restriction and more about restoration.
If you're curious about creating your own herbal protocol or want to explore these herbs in person, visit Healing Leaf Apothecary in Coeur d’Alene. We're here to help you reconnect with your body and the plant wisdom that surrounds you.
About Heather
Heather Gehrman has fulfilled her soul calling by opening Healing Leaf Apothecary, a beautiful holistic wellness store in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Her mission is to provide natural healing products, be service-oriented and educationally focused.
The Healing Leaf Apothecary, nestled in the heart of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, is a haven for those seeking holistic health solutions. Founded by Heather and Jeff Gehrman, the apothecary is a culmination of Heather's 15-year dream to offer natural remedies that promote genuine well-being. This dream came to Heather when she observed her family and friends relying heavily on medications. Not being one to stand by Heather pursued formal training in Seattle before bringing her vision to life back in Coeur d’ Alene. As a Clinical Herbalist, Heather crafts capsules, teas, tinctures, and remedies, many sourced from Idaho, blending expertise with a personal touch. Her products, ranging from hormone-balancing remedies to energy-boosting blends, that transform the lives of many in town. In addition to this, she also provides rentable space for other healers, fostering a supportive community while simultaneously making sure every detail, from the in-house crafted loose-leaf teas to the welcoming ambiance, reflects Heather’s passion for creating a comforting and empowering space.