Detoxification and cleansing are pretty popular health measures to take these days, and have been shown to produce some positive results. Some experts say that detoxification plans can help rid your body of unwanted and damaging chemicals and junk; others say that it’s probably a waste of time. Our livers, they say, work as natural detoxification factories, and if you’re giving your liver enough supply—as in good foods and nutrients—it can surely meet the demand.

No matter which side of the coin, most experts agree that detox products sold for the purpose are a waste of money. Using simple foods and herbs at home should be able to give you the detoxification you are after. All you really need are some great healthy foods, plenty of fiber and foods that stimulate the enzymes in your liver—not expensive equipment or chemicals. Keep in mind that you should always check with your doctor first before embarking on a new diet.

Here are a few foods and herbs known for their detoxification properties that you may be interested in:

Water: Good thing the number one thing you need to flush out your system is pretty much completely free! If you want filtered water, try investing in a water purifying system, which is a cheap investment compared to buying bottles and bottles of water every week.

Lemons: These fruits are good for almost anything! Vitamin C is “the detox vitamin” and helps turn toxic sludge in your body into water-soluable form that’s easily removed from your system. Make some fresh lemonade without additives, preserves or harmful sweeteners. Try stevia, honey or pure maple syrup for a bit of sweetener if you like.

Juices: Your liver does like juice! Liquids are easier to break down than solids and give your liver a nice break. You can make your own juices with a juicer or buy natural juices without added sugar from the store. Green juices made from leafy veggies can particularly benefit your body.

Green Tea: You already know that tea’s a diuretic and can help you flush out your body; but it’s also a good way to simply increase your fluid intake. Green tea also contains catechins to help your liver work optimally.

Fresh Fruits and Vegetables: You pretty much can’t go wrong here, but some of the best choices include cauliflower, onions, cabbage, broccoli, watercress, broccoli sprouts, and basically anything green and leafy.

Some good detoxifying herbs to use include garlic, psyllium seed, oatstraw, witch hazel, marshmallow root, pumpkin seed, hibiscus flower, slippery elm bark, Irish moss and licorice root.