Elimination of toxins from the body is an important aspect of Ayurvedic, yogic, and naturopathic medicine. It is hypothesized that symptoms of poor health in an individual, free from diagnosed disease are attributed to toxin buildup in the body. MacIntosh et al performed a pilot study that examined whether a 7-day program of detoxification can ameliorate well-being and promote the activity of liver detoxification pathways. This non-controlled clinical intervention enrolled 25 disease-free participants. Pre- and postmeasures were taken using the Metabolic Screening Questionnaire (as a subjective assessment of well-being) and drug challenge tests to evaluate hepatic detoxification capacity.

The results declared that a statistically significant (47%) reduction was seen in the Metabolic Screening Questionnaire scores. These positive effects in patient-assessed health took place simultaneously with a 23% increase in liver detoxification capacity, as determined by the caffeine clearance measure. Moreover, an increase in the urinary sulfate-to-creatinine ratio was reported following treatment, suggestive of a trend toward improved liver function.

Based on these outcome, it can be concluded that a simple 7-day detoxification program can cause remarkable reduction in the symptoms of the participant. Thus, it can be postulated that this 7-day course may promote well-being by improving hepatic detoxification. This method was simple and short-term which can be advantageous for disease-free individuals without specific exposure to toxin, for improving health and preventing the development of disease. 

Source: MacIntosh A, Ball K. The effects of a short program of detoxification in disease-free individuals. Altern Ther Health Med. 2000 Jul;6(4):70-6. PMID: 10895516.