This is a comprehensive four part class series focusing on the process of detoxification and the sources of toxicity in our modern world. The process of detoxification is complex and involves multiple organ systems including the liver, gastrointestinal system, skin, lymphatic system, kidneys and hair. This class series will detail how we are exposed to toxins (both internal and external) and the main organ systems involved in detoxification (liver, gastrointestinal, skin, lymphatics, skin and hair). The class series will also feature integrative, holistic protocols that aid each aspect of detoxification. It will also cover very simple, easy to follow ways to minimize your exposure to environmental toxins.

The class series will be led by Noah Samuels, L.Ac, Dipl. OM. Noah is a Licensed Acupuncturist, Clinical Herbalist, and Nutritional Consultant. He has extensive clinical experience and knowledge of the detoxification process, as well as integrative clinical approaches to impaired detoxification. Over the years he has given lectures, supervised countless detoxification programs, as well as working one-on-one with clients. The conditions caused by impaired detoxification are numerous and varied and include autism, ADHD, fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome, chronic fatigue syndrome, and cancer.

The class is taught over four Saturdays 10am to 4pm. There is a one 30 minute lunch break and two 15 minute tea breaks during the day. The levels may be attended in any order as these are stand alone classes. The instructor will provide a recommended reading list. In addition, case studies will be discussed, current medical research will be analyzed, and holistic treatment protocols will be developed and discussed in a group setting.

Level 1: Toxins in our Environment

Level 1 provides students a comprehensive overview of the many ways in which we are exposed to toxins in our lives and how we can reduce or eliminate our exposure to them. The first half of the class will focus on toxins, both external and internal. The talk will range from pesticides to heavy metals to drinking water. How infections and injuries, bacteria and fungi, diet and even exercise can cause toxicity. It will also cover the basic symptoms of internal toxicity including increased chemical & food sensitivities, fatigue, cognitive & mood imbalance, chronic pain, and gastrointestinal distress.

The second half of the class will focus on simple ways to reduce ones exposure to toxins. It will cover grocery lists, the process of food preparation, cookware, food storage, water filtration, what to check in your home, cosmetics, and much more. It will also cover a basic diet plan that supports the process of detoxification.

Level 2: The Liver

Level 2 focuses on the primary organ system involved in detoxification: The Liver. The first half of the class will focus on the organ itself. This will cover the detoxification pathways of the liver including Phase 1, Intermediate Phase, Phase 2 and the process of cellular oxidation. The Chinese medical theory of the liver organ and meridian system will be discussed as well.

The second half of the class will focus on dietary and supplemental protocols to address each phase of liver detoxification, as well as Chinese & Western herbs. Functional medicine laboratory assessments of the liver and detoxification will be covered as well.

Level 3: The Gastrointestinal System

Level 3 focuses on the Gastrointestinal System and its role in detoxification. The first half of the class will cover the relationship between the liver and the GI system in detoxification. It will also cover how leaky gut, food sensitivities, microbes (bacteria, yeast, fungi, parasites), malnutrition, malabsorption, and maldigestion play a role in internal toxicity.

The second half of the class will focus on dietary and supplemental protocols to address each aspect of gastrointestinal function. The concept of the Four R's: Remove, Replace, Re-Inoculate, and Repair will be covered, as well as Chinese & Western herbs for GI support. Functional medicine laboratory assessments of the gastrointestinal system will be covered as well.

Level 4: The Skin, Kidneys & Lymphatic System

Level 4 focuses on the other important organs involved in the process of detoxification: The Skin, the Lymphatic System, and the Kidneys. The first half of the class will cover the important functions that each of these organs have in the process of detoxification.

The second half of the class will focus on dietary and supplemental protocols to support each of these organ systems. Chinese and Western herbs that support these systems will be covered as well.