Ingredients explained

This page calmly explains which ingredients commonly appear in detox supplements and what they can — and cannot — realistically do. We discuss fibres, herbs and plant extracts without overpromising, so you can make an informed choice. The information is intended for adults and is not a substitute for medical advice.

Each ingredient receives a brief, honest overview. For exact amounts, always refer to the label of the specific product. Understanding ingredients in advance helps you incorporate supplements sensibly into a healthy lifestyle with adequate water, fibre, exercise and rest.

Why understand ingredients?

Understanding ingredients helps you maintain realistic expectations. A detox supplement is not a miracle product: the body has its own natural processes for digestion and elimination. Fibres, herbs and plant extracts can form part of a temporary, mindful routine, but they do not take over the role of the liver, kidneys and intestines.

Knowing what an ingredient is, who it is intended for and what to watch out for allows you to better assess whether a product suits your situation. This page is therefore not a sales pitch, but an overview that helps you read labels and product pages critically. If in doubt, or if you use medication or have health concerns, consult a doctor or pharmacist first.

Fibres and bowel routine

Fibres are a common component of detox supplements. Soluble fibres such as psyllium absorb moisture and should therefore always be taken with plenty of water. Fibres are often discussed in relation to normal bowel movements and a regular digestive routine, and fit well within a fibre-rich diet including vegetables, fruit and wholegrains.

It is important to note that fibres work as a supportive element within a healthy lifestyle and do not resolve complaints. If you do not increase your fluid intake sufficiently, you may actually experience bloating. Always read the usage advice and introduce fibre supplements gradually.

Drink enough water

Fibres require water. A glass of water per serving is usually the minimum; consult the label for the correct amount. Without sufficient fluid, soluble fibres may have the opposite effect to what you intend.

Herbs in supplements

Herbs such as milk thistle, ginger, cloves and black walnut are common in herbal formulas. They are often used traditionally, which is different from medically proven efficacy. Kitchen herbs like ginger or a spice like cloves are familiar from cooking; in a supplement they are present in a measured form according to the label.

Some herbs, such as senna, have a pronounced effect on the bowel and should only be used short-term and strictly according to the directions. Do not combine herbal supplements without advice, particularly if you use medication. Herbs can support normal bodily processes, but do not work against disease and are not a substitute for treatment.

Plant extracts and dosage

Plant extracts are concentrated forms of plant-based ingredients, such as an extract of turmeric or milk thistle. Because they are concentrated, correct dosage is especially important. We deliberately do not mention quantities in this text: the exact dosage and composition are always stated on the label of the specific product.

Follow the recommended dosage and do not take more than indicated. More is not better. A responsible dosage contributes to safe use and fits within a healthy lifestyle. To learn why transparency about origin and composition matters, read our explanation of ingredient transparency.

What to look out for

When choosing a detox supplement, keep a few practical points in mind. Read the full ingredient list and the warnings on the packaging. Check whether the product is suitable for your situation and use it strictly according to the label. A course is temporary and not a long-term solution.

  • Suitability: not intended for children and not for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
  • Medication: consult a doctor or pharmacist first, as herbs can interact with medication.
  • Dosage: follow the label and do not exceed the recommended amount.
  • Lifestyle: a supplement fits within a healthy lifestyle and is not a substitute for a balanced diet or medical advice.
Ing Psyllium A soluble fibre source that is always taken with plenty of water and is commonly discussed in relation to regular bowel habits. Read more → Ing Chlorella A green freshwater algae used as a supplement that fits well within a varied, plant-based diet. Read more → Ing Mariadistel A herb traditionally included in herbal formulas; the amount is always stated on the label. Read more → Ing Gember A familiar kitchen spice that also appears in supplements and pairs well with a mindful eating routine. Read more → Ing Kurkuma A yellow-coloured root used both as a spice and as a supplement as part of a healthy lifestyle. Read more → Ing Senna A plant with a pronounced effect on the bowel, used exclusively short-term and strictly according to the label. Read more → Ing Zwarte Walnoot A plant-based ingredient from traditional herbal formulas; always use according to the directions on the packaging. Read more → Ing Kruidnagel An aromatic spice sometimes included in herbal blends and used in small amounts. Read more →

Discover our herb library

Learn more about popular herbs, their traditional uses, and how they are used in natural wellness routines.

Ginger Ginger is a warming herb that is often used to support digestion and a comfortable feeling after meals. Read more → Fennel Fennel is traditionally used to support digestion, particularly for a bloated feeling, gas, and a tense abdomen. Read more → Chamomile Chamomile is a gentle herb traditionally used for mild stomach and gut complaints, and fits well in a quiet evening routine. Read more → Peppermint Peppermint (mint) is often used for a fresh feeling and to support stomach and gut comfort. Read more → Milk Thistle Milk thistle is traditionally used to support liver function and with digestive complaints such as a full feeling and indigestion. Read more → Dandelion Dandelion is traditionally used to support digestion and flush the urinary tract, as part of a natural wellness routine. Read more → Turmeric Turmeric is traditionally used to support digestion, particularly in relation to bile and rich, fatty meals. Read more → Nettle Nettle is traditionally used to flush the urinary tract and fits well within a natural cleansing or detox routine. Read more → Hibiscus Hibiscus makes a fresh, fruity herbal tea and is often used within light cleansing and fluid-balance routines. Read more → Lavender Lavender is a fragrant herb traditionally used within quiet evening and relaxation routines. Read more → Moringa Moringa is a green leaf herb often used within daily wellness and vitality routines. Read more → Sage Sage is traditionally used within gentle routines for mouth, throat, and mucous membrane comfort. Read more → St. John's Wort St. John's Wort is a traditional European herb. Always discuss use with a doctor or pharmacist first. Read more → Liquorice Liquorice has a sweet, distinctive flavour and is traditionally used within warm throat and herbal routines. Read more → Anise Anise is traditionally used for a settled and comfortable feeling in the abdomen. Read more → Rosehip Rosehip is the fruit of the wild rose and is often used within daily, fruity herbal routines. Read more → Tulsi (holy basil) Tulsi is an Ayurvedic herb traditionally used within daily balance and wellness routines. Read more → Lady's Mantle Lady's mantle has long been used within traditional women's routines for comfort and balance. Read more → Rose Rose petals lend a gentle, fragrant touch to herbal blends within calm and nurturing routines. Read more → Verbena (vervain) Verbena is traditionally used within quiet evening and relaxation routines. Read more → Horseradish Horseradish is a pungent root traditionally used within warm seasonal and respiratory routines. Read more → Calendula Calendula is traditionally used within gentle, nurturing routines for skin and mucous membrane comfort. Read more → Lapacho (Pau d'Arco) Lapacho (Pau d'Arco) is a South American bark tea traditionally used within daily herbal routines. Read more →

Herbal Guide →

Frequently asked questions

What are the ingredients in detox supplements?

They are typically fibres, herbs and plant extracts used as part of a mindful, temporary course. They can support normal bodily processes, but do not cleanse the body and are not a substitute for medical advice.

Who is this information intended for?

For adults who want to understand what is in a product before making a choice. The information is not intended for children and not for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Are the amounts listed here?

No. Exact quantities and dosages are always stated on the label of the specific product. We deliberately omit quantities from the explanation so that you check the correct information on the packaging. More about ingredient transparency

Can I combine ingredients with medication?

If you use medication, consult a doctor or pharmacist first. Herbs and plant extracts can in some situations affect medication or sensitivities.

Which product is right for me?

That depends on your goal and situation. Start by reading the product explanation and check the composition and warnings before choosing. If in doubt, consult a doctor or pharmacist. View Detox Intestinal D1

What is the next safe step?

Read the explanation for each ingredient, check the label of the product you are considering and maintain a healthy lifestyle with adequate water, fibre, exercise and rest.