Fireworks Pollution, Heavy Metals & Why Your Annual Detox Matters for Long-Term Health
- Jessica
- 17 hours ago
- 26 min read
Disclaimer: This page may include paid links for which I earn a commission.
This blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner regarding any medical concerns or conditions. For our full health disclaimer, click HERE
While I appreciate the beauty and excitement of a great firework display, there’s an important reason limits exist on their use. Fireworks light up the night sky with color and joy, yet behind the sparkle lies a serious issue: heavy metal fallout, toxic smoke, and chemical debris that harm our health, wildlife, and environment.
Personally, the noise hasn’t been a major issue for me, but I understand how ongoing celebrations affect families with children, pets, or early schedules. What concerns me most, however, is the invisible health impact of these pollutants, especially in densely populated areas.
This year, many Ontario cities recorded record-high firework complaints. Some municipalities have now banned or restricted their use further; sales are no longer allowed on the day of the holiday, and fireworks are limited to private property between 6–10 p.m. on five designated holidays: Canada Day, Victoria Day, New Year’s Eve, Lunar New Year, and Diwali.
In practice, those limits are often exceeded. For example, there were record-high complaints this year that Diwali celebrations in Canada, which were last week, began days early and afterward up until about Wednesday, and that the firework displays continued well past midnight in some neighborhoods across Ontario. While Diwali, a beautiful Festival of Lights celebrating the victory of light over darkness, is deeply meaningful, the growing trend of multi-night fireworks raises broader questions about fairness, legality, and environmental impact.
Fireworks are used worldwide, from Bastille Day to Guy Fawkes Night, and if every cultural group in Canada celebrated with multiple nights of fireworks, the cumulative toll on air quality, soil, and community peace would be immense.
There are many alternative ways to honor these traditions, candle and lamp lighting, lantern festivals, music, and cultural performances, that carry the same symbolism without harming the environment or disturbing others.
Ontario’s bylaws are clear: fireworks are only permitted on specific holidays, on private property, within limited hours, and by those over 18. These rules are not about limiting cultural expression but protecting public health, safety, and ecological balance so everyone can celebrate harmoniously.
This message is not about criticizing any culture or religion, quite the opposite. It’s about fairness, respect, and sustainability. If every group extended their celebrations, the environmental and health consequences would be devastating.
That’s why it’s important to preserve the joy of fireworks for a few key moments each year or, better yet, embrace creative, sustainable alternatives that celebrate light, unity, and the well-being of our shared planet.
The Hidden Dangers of Fireworks Pollution
Fireworks have been a part of celebrations for generations, marking joy, victory, and unity. Their vibrant explosions symbolize happiness and light. However, according to the “Researchers in California discovered that during July 4th celebrations, airborne metals like barium, copper, and strontium soared to nearly 5,000 ng/m³, among the highest levels ever measured, proving just how potent fireworks pollution can be in a single night.” These pollutants linger far longer than the spectacle itself, infiltrating lungs, waterways, and soil.
During India’s Diwali festival, researchers observed a 16-fold spike in PM2.5 levels, causing respiratory distress and reduced air quality across major cities. Likewise, in the city of Brampton located in Ontario, Canada,, in 2022, the sheer number of fireworks set off on Diwali contributed to an alert about “deteriorating air quality” from Environment Canada.
These airborne toxins don’t just vanish. They settle into waterways, contaminate soil, and eventually re-enter the food chain, affecting both human and ecosystem health.
When fireworks are used excessively or beyond permitted times, their cumulative impact extends far beyond the sky, disrupting both our surrounding ecosystems and the delicate biological systems within our own bodies. Municipal regulations exist for good reason: to preserve air quality, reduce fire risks, and protect public health.
What the Science Shows
Fireworks contain a cocktail of heavy metals to create their brilliant colors:
Barium (green): Can impair heart and lung function.
Strontium (red): Affects bone and blood health.
Copper (blue): Can damage the liver, kidneys, and brain with prolonged exposure.
Aluminum (white/silver): Contributes to neurotoxicity and oxidative stress.
Lead (gold): Accumulates in organs, leading to neurological and immune dysfunction.
A study published in Particle and Fibre Toxicology (2020) found that smoke from fireworks triggers oxidative stress and inflammation in lung cells, both key drivers of chronic disease.
When ignited, these ingredients produced fine particles (PM₁₀ and PM₂.₅) containing metal oxides and perchlorates that remain airborne and can enter the respiratory system and bloodstream.
The study exposed human bronchial epithelial cells (BEAS-2B) and pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells (HPMEC) to fireworks-derived PM₁₀, and also tested the material in mice. Findings included:
Significant oxidative stress (elevated reactive oxygen species, or ROS).
Inflammatory response — increased cytokines and immune cell infiltration in lung tissue.
Mitochondrial stress and cell membrane damage.
In mice, neutrophil influx in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, indicating acute lung inflammation.
This confirms that firework smoke is not just “harmless fun dust”, it’s a complex mix of reactive metals and chemical byproducts that can inflame and stress lung tissue and, through systemic absorption, burden the kidneys and liver as well.
Impact on Wildlife
To add to this, fireworks cause immense stress for animals, both domestic and wild. Birds abandon nests, dogs and cats flee in panic, fish alter their migration routes, and marine mammals have been observed to change their feeding patterns due to loud noise and chemical fallout. Even short-term displays can disrupt reproductive patterns, and repeated events magnify those effects.
According to a Phys.org report (2023), the long-term ecological footprint of fireworks is disproportionately large compared to the few minutes of visual pleasure they bring.
The Environmental Fallout
Fireworks contribute to:
Air pollution: High levels of sulfur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), and carbon monoxide (CO).
Water contamination: Perchlorates and heavy metals leaching into lakes, rivers, and groundwater.
Soil degradation: Residual aluminum, strontium, and barium are altering soil chemistry.
Acidic fallout: Chemical byproducts lowering soil and water pH, stressing plant and aquatic life.
Over time, these pollutants weaken ecosystems, reduce biodiversity, and amplify the toxic load on our environment.
Why Detox Matters After Environmental Exposure
Fireworks pollution and detox. Like many other environmental pollutants, fireworks release fine particulate matter and heavy metals that can enter the bloodstream via inhalation or through the food chain after settling into our soil and waterways. Studies show that fireworks smoke contains metals such as lead, copper, and barium, and that these particles can induce oxidative stress in lung cells, disrupt thyroid and liver function, and weaken immune defense.
That’s why supporting your body’s natural detoxification pathways after major fireworks events or any significant dip in air quality is so important, especially during seasonal transitions when our immune systems are more vulnerable. In our personal experience and through working with clients over the past seven years, those who perform regular cleanses or light detox routines rarely suffer from frequent colds or flus. If you find yourself getting sick more often than usual, it may be a clear sign that your toxic load is elevated, and a full-body cleanse or detox protocol could be well-timed for you.
I’ve learned that our bodies, much like our homes or gardens, need regular care and maintenance. During the long, warm days of summer, it’s easy to let wellness routines slip, indulge a bit more, and allow toxins to build up. But if left unchecked, these accumulations can quietly take a toll, especially as colder months approach and illness becomes more common.
When the pandemic began, I neglected my own self-care despite knowing better. The combination of global stress and environmental toxins eventually overwhelmed my system, leading to a severe Crohn’s relapse and hospitalization. It was a harsh but valuable lesson, one I’m still recovering from and hope others can learn from without having to endure the same experience.
Caring for yourself isn’t optional; it’s essential. No one else can do it for you. Regular cleansing, mindful detoxing, and daily practices that ease stress and nurture your body, mind, and soul are powerful acts of self-respect and disease prevention. Just as you wouldn’t let garbage pile up in your home, don’t let toxins or stress build up in your body. Prioritizing wellness today protects your energy, vitality, and long-term health.
While this isn’t my full annual cleanse protocol, these are just some of the products I use annually to support my body between deeper detoxes and to prevent the accumulation of toxins in my body from environmental pollutants that are beyond my control.
How to Safely Detox from Heavy Metals Using Binders
These help capture and eliminate metals and other toxin by-products via the gut, bile, lymph, and in some cases, intracellularly.
Fulvic & Humic Acids – Fulvic acid is a small, naturally occurring molecule found in soil that can penetrate cells to bind and help remove intracellular toxins like heavy metals and pesticides. It also supports nutrient transport, reduces oxidative stress, and enhances overall cellular health. Fulvic acid is ideal for daily, ongoing detox support, especially if you want to maintain long-term cellular function and overall vitality. My favorite brands are Optimally Organic’s Fulvic Ionic Minerals [link HERE] or Touchstone Essentials’ combination formula [link HERE].
Clinoptilolite Zeolite – Zeolite is a mineral silicate with a honeycomb structure that binds toxins, especially heavy metals, and helps remove them via urine. It works primarily outside of the cells, but some use advanced nanosizing to reach to a cellular level, making it highly effective for environmental toxin detoxification and digestive support. Zeolite is great if you want to clear accumulated toxins from your system, especially metals, and can be combined with fulvic acid for a comprehensive detox. I recommend the Zeolite Detox Pack from The Good Inside [link HERE].
Chlorella & Cilantro – Chlorella, a green algae, and cilantro are widely used in natural protocols to help mobilize metals from soft tissues. Chlorella binds heavy metals, while cilantro helps pull them from tissue, but here’s the catch: used alone, cilantro can move metals toward the brain which can be dangerous, so it should ALWAYS be paired with chlorella or another binder (like modified citrus pectin or zeolites) and NEVER taken alone! Also, chlorella and cilantro can sometimes pose issues for people with methylation problems, particularly those with MTHFR gene variants or impaired detox pathways.
Here Is Why:
Methylation is a key biochemical process in the body that helps regulate detoxification, neurotransmitter balance, DNA repair, and inflammation control. It relies heavily on nutrients like B12 (methylcobalamin), folate (methylfolate), and B6. When methylation is impaired, the body struggles to properly process and eliminate toxins, heavy metals, and certain chemicals.
Chlorella and cilantro both mobilize heavy metals from tissues which is beneficial when detox pathways are strong but in someone with poor methylation, this mobilization can overwhelm the system. The metals may not be fully bound or excreted, leading to “retox” symptoms like fatigue, headaches, mood swings, or inflammation.
In Short:
If you have methylation issues, it’s best to strengthen liver and methylation support first (using nutrients like methyl-B12, methylfolate, magnesium, and milk thistle) before using mobilizers like chlorella or cilantro. You can still detox, but it should be done slowly, with plenty of binders and methyl donors to support safe elimination.
Both chlorella and cilantro, along with other nutrients, can be found in Touchstone Essentials’ Super Greens Juice [link HERE]. However, for those with digestive sensitivities like myself, or who may not be quite ready to mobilize heavy metals with cilantro, I would consider the MultiAbsorb Immune Booster by Listen To Your Gut [link HERE], which only contains cracked chlorella, along with all your other daily gut-friendly nutrients that the body requires for optimal health, as well as some of the ones mentioned above to help support methylation.
Activated Charcoal & Bentonite Clay – Activated charcoal and bentonite clay are two of the most effective natural binders for capturing toxins directly in the gut. Both substances work through adsorption, a process where harmful compounds, chemicals, and gases adhere to their highly porous surfaces, helping to prevent reabsorption through the intestinal wall and assisting the body in safely eliminating them. They’re particularly useful for short-term or acute toxin exposures, such as after eating a questionable meal, experiencing environmental or chemical exposure, or prior to sauna use (infrared or the Photon Genius) when toxins are being mobilized from tissues. Using a binder in these moments can reduce detox symptoms like headaches, nausea, or fatigue by catching mobilized toxins before they recirculate.
Timing is essential:
Take binders at least one hour before or two hours after other medications, supplements, or food to avoid interference with nutrient absorption. Because charcoal and clay can also bind beneficial minerals and probiotics, they should not be used continuously or for extended periods of time. Overuse may deplete essential minerals or alter the gut microbiome balance. When used responsibly, however, these binders can be a powerful part of a cleansing protocol, especially during times of stress, travel, or environmental toxin exposure, to give your liver and gut a little extra support. That is why I always have a bottle of Activated Charcoal and Bentonite Clay on hand because you never know when you'll need them.
👉 Coconut Charcoal By Bulletproof linked HERE.
👉 Bentonite Clay By Living Clay is the only formula I have ingested internally. linked HERE.
⚠️ Note: When using binders, ensure adequate hydration, good bowel motility, and take them away from food or medications as recommended.
A Holistic Approach to Long-Term Wellness
If your gut is severely compromised, as mine once was after multiple Crohn’s relapses triggered by trauma and stress, your main focus should not be detoxification—it should be rebuilding. That means restoring your microbiome and gut lining, strengthening your immune system, and calming your nervous system.
When I relapsed, I made the difficult but necessary choice to pause all detoxing and even step back from my business to return to the basics. I spent several months on a completely liquid elemental diet using Absorb Plus Shakes, giving my digestive system the deep rest it needed to repair.
For others who aren’t severely underweight or malnourished (I was only 88 lbs at the time), there are gentler ways to reset, such as short or extended water fasts. However, nutrient deficiencies must be addressed carefully during the refeeding phase, and any fasting protocol should be done gradually and ideally under the supervision of a qualified holistic practitioner.
After completing my elemental phase, I slowly regained strength, rebuilt healthy weight, reduced inflammation, and began to heal the damaged mucosal lining of my gut.
Over the past two years, I’ve continued this journey of rebuilding body, mind, and soul. To this day, I begin every morning with a nutrient-rich smoothie made from organic whole foods, superfoods, and liquid nutrients that support my gut, skin, and overall vitality. While my smoothie is quite extensive today, it still contains Listen To Your Gut’s Immune Booster [link HERE] or Daily Essential [link HERE], and a spoonful of Sea Moss Gel from a local supplier whom we trust and have come to love. You can find them HERE.
While my most recent healing journey began with the elemental shakes to get me out of an acute health situation, it was the transition to my own self-formulated healing smoothie, along with a complete reset of my old beliefs and habits, that became the true cornerstone of my recovery. This process helped me regain strength, rebuild my gut lining, and restore balance after months on a strict elemental diet. Over time, as I introduced solid foods back into my diet, my intuition guided me to reevaluate my beliefs around the Keto, Epi-Paleo, and SCD diets to a more Mediterranean, plant-forward lifestyle, a shift that completely transformed my digestion and energy.
What I once believed were “problem foods” turned out to be foods my body simply wasn’t ready for just yet. As I began healing my gut microbiome and learning how to properly prepare and combine foods, I was able to reintroduce ingredients I hadn’t eaten in nearly two decades, like some gluten-free grains, A2 dairy, and even legumes!
Beyond nutrition, I made daily self-care non-negotiable! My days now include red light therapy with my Lumen/InLight System, breathwork or meditation, and gentle movement, often supported by Spinal Flow sessions and Brain Retraining whenever needed. I made time to ground in nature, walked barefoot a lot this past summer, and soaked up as much natural sunlight on bare skin as possible. I’ve also drastically reduced screen time to limit blue light and nnEMF exposure, but more importantly, to protect my peace of mind and sanity.
I’ve learned that true healing also means setting healthy boundaries, saying “no” when needed, and releasing guilt. Laughter, gratitude, joy, and forgiveness have become some of my most powerful medicines. Throughout the day, I take mindful breaks to stretch, breathe, and hydrate with clean, structured water or herbal teas. I remind myself that, regardless of all the darkness in this world, there is still light!
To support my inner balance and health, I incorporate Photon Genius sauna sessions several times a week, especially as the weather cools and natural sunlight becomes harder to come by. This practice helps me stay clear, energized and prevents the buildup of fatigue or stagnation. It can also help reduce the risk of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) by supporting mood, energy, and overall mental well-being during the darker winter months.
Every step of this journey has reminded me that healing is an intimate dance between body, mind, and spirit. There is no one-size-fits-all path, only the quiet guidance that comes from truly listening within. It’s about trusting your intuition, honouring your body’s whispers, and showing up for yourself, even when it’s hard. I lost touch with that after the world shifted during the pandemic, but I’ve come to understand that nothing is more sacred than our well-being, for there is no greater wealth than a healthy, balanced life.
Antioxidants & Inflammation Modulators
Environmental pollutants, such as the metal oxides and fine particulate matter (PM₁₀/PM₂.₅) released from fireworks, can increase oxidative stress in the body. And while fireworks are just one example, many other sources contaminate our air, water, and soil. Vehicle emissions, industrial pollution, wildfires, construction dust, agricultural chemicals, waste incineration, aviation fuel, and even everyday household products all release toxic particles and heavy metals that eventually find their way into our environment and ultimately, into our bodies. This is why it’s so important to regularly support your body’s natural detoxification pathways. The right nutrients can help buffer the toxic load, restore balance, and support natural tissue repair. Here are some of my favorites:
Glutathione / NAC (N-acetylcysteine) – Supports lung and liver cell redox balance. Glutathione (GSH) is often called the body’s master antioxidant. It is naturally produced in the liver from three amino acids: cysteine, glycine, and glutamate. It plays a crucial role in maintaining redox balance, supporting liver detoxification, and protecting tissues, especially in the lungs and liver, from oxidative stress.
However, stress, toxins, poor nutrition, and chronic illness can deplete glutathione stores and impair the body’s ability to recycle it efficiently. This is where N-acetylcysteine (NAC) becomes invaluable: it replenishes cysteine, the rate-limiting precursor for glutathione synthesis, helping restore the body’s antioxidant defenses.
Together, NAC and glutathione enhance detoxification by neutralizing free radicals and activating Nrf2 (the body’s master antioxidant switch), while downregulating NF-κB, a key driver of inflammation.
Research shows NAC supplementation can boost intracellular glutathione, improve liver enzyme function, and ease oxidative stress in the lungs by thinning mucus and supporting cellular repair. By nourishing the pathways that allow your body to produce its own glutathione, you’re building true cellular resilience, strengthening your body’s ability to detoxify, heal, and thrive from within.
Through my morning smoothie routine, I already give my body nearly every cofactor needed to synthesize and recycle glutathione naturally, without needing to supplement it directly. That’s why I choose not to take glutathione directly. Instead, I take NAC after dinner to help my body naturally recycle and regenerate glutathione, maximizing the benefits of all the nourishing foods I’ve already given my body earlier in the day.
Vitamin C (liposomal or high-absorption form) – Free-radical scavenger, helps regenerate other antioxidants. Liposomal vitamin C is a highly bioavailable form of vitamin C encapsulated in lipid (fat) spheres, enhancing its absorption and effectiveness compared to standard ascorbic acid.
A study published in Nutraceuticals found that liposomal vitamin C increased serum vitamin C levels by 55% more than ascorbic acid after two hours and exhibited 2–3 times higher antioxidant capacity.
Additionally, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial demonstrated that liposomal vitamin C was 27% more bioavailable than non-liposomal vitamin C and resulted in higher concentrations in white blood cells, indicating improved immune support Specnova.
These enhanced absorption and retention properties make liposomal vitamin C a potent supplement for boosting antioxidant levels, supporting immune function, and promoting overall health. I've been using this vitamin C exclusively for over 10 years now and swear by it!
Curcumin (turmeric extract)— The active compound in turmeric, curcumin, has been shown to modulate the NF-κB inflammatory pathway and reduce cytokine production, thereby helping control systemic inflammation and tissue damage.
For example, one study found that curcumin inhibited NF-κB activation and downstream genes like IL-1β and IL-6 in adipocytes exposed to palmitate, indicating it can help reverse inflammation-induced insulin resistance. BES Journal
Another investigation using intestinal epithelial cells demonstrated that curcumin blocked cytokine-mediated NF-κB activation by preventing IκBα degradation and IKK activity, effectively reducing pro-inflammatory gene expression. PubMed.
Think of curcumin as a natural regulator of immune gene expression; it doesn’t just mask inflammation, it helps reprogram how your body responds to inflammatory triggers, which makes it a valuable tool in a holistic anti-inflammatory protocol.
I personally use the extracts from Optimally Organic, while they have turmeric extract on its own linked HERE, I am currently using their Heart Health product linked HERE. I sometimes switch things up by using a locally sourced curcumin powder, which I’ll add to my morning smoothie for an extra anti-inflammatory boost, though I use it sparingly since it tends to stain anything it touches! I also make a point to include turmeric in as many of my cooked meals as possible for its added healing benefits.
Resveratrol & quercetin – Resveratrol, a polyphenol found in grapes and certain plants, and quercetin, a flavonoid abundant in onions and apples, both play powerful roles in regulating inflammation and stabilizing mast cells.
Resveratrol works by modulating the NF-κB and Nrf2 pathways, reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α and IL-1β, as shown in studies demonstrating its ability to suppress tissue inflammation and oxidative stress (PubMed, PubMed). Quercetin, meanwhile, has been found to inhibit mast-cell activation and histamine release, at times even outperforming traditional stabilizers like cromolyn, by blocking NF-κB signaling and cytokine production (PMC, PMC). Together, they offer potent protection against chronic inflammation, allergies, and oxidative stress.
While the Listen To Your Gut formula I mentioned above doesn’t contain resveratrol specifically, it includes quercetin and several other synergistic antioxidants, such as CoQ10, Rutin, and Enzogenol (pine bark extract), that support similar pathways. Organic Moringa, Holy Basil, and Schisandra further enhance this blend as adaptogens, helping buffer oxidative stress and support natural detoxification.
However, if you wish to include a true resveratrol supplement, you could explore standalone formulas from a trusted health food store or consider the one I linked HERE.
Personally, I am not taking additional resveratrol at the moment because I incorporate several foods that contain this compound into my morning smoothie as well, such as wild blueberries, a touch of organic peanut butter, and occasionally some raw cacao. For those looking for a concentrated natural source, Japanese Knotweed is still one of the richest sources of resveratrol available, which I did use well over a decade ago when battling my Lyme infection holistically.
Omega-3 (krill oil or a good source of ALA/GLA like Hemp Seeds or Oil) – EPA and DHA found in krill oil, and ALA and GLA (alpha-linolenic acid and Gamma-Linolenic Acid, as well as linoleic acid) from plant sources like hemp hearts, play a crucial role in modulating systemic inflammation and supporting tissue repair, especially within the lungs and cardiovascular system. These essential fats regulate inflammatory gene expression by reducing NF-κB activation and cytokine production (IL-6, TNF-α), while promoting the formation of specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs) that actively resolve inflammation rather than suppress it (PubMed, PubMed).
Krill oil, in particular, offers superior bioavailability due to its phospholipid-bound omega-3s and natural astaxanthin content, which protects the fatty acids from oxidation and enhances antioxidant defense (PubMed).
Meanwhile, ALA from hemp seeds provides a plant-based precursor to EPA and DHA, helping maintain cell membrane fluidity and supporting respiratory and immune function. While the GLA, though it’s technically an omega-6, it is unique because it is anti-inflammatory, unlike most omega-6 fats (like linoleic acid). GLA's role is to support skin health, hormones, joint health, and balance inflammatory prostaglandins.
Together, these sources help modulate inflammatory signaling, enhance oxygen exchange, and strengthen overall tissue integrity, making them foundational in any anti-inflammatory regimen. Since my husband and I go through hemp hearts quickly, since we both consume them daily, I like to buy them in bulk from Costco. This is the brand I use in particular [link HERE] and my preferred Krill Oil [link HERE] at the moment because the one I used to take by Trophic has recently added the emulsifier Polysorbate 80.
Studies using both mouse models and human intestinal tissue have indicated that even extremely low levels of the common food additive polysorbate 80, an emulsifier found in many processed foods, may disrupt the gut barrier. This disruption can allow bacteria to move across the intestinal lining, triggering inflammation and metabolic disturbances. These findings suggest that frequent consumption of emulsifiers like polysorbate 80 could play a contributing role in the development of chronic inflammatory and metabolic conditions, including Crohn’s disease, coronary artery disease, and type 2 diabetes.[PubMed 2019]. This infuriates me because I used to use this brand for years, and it never contained Polysorbate 80 in the past, so why now?
Lung, Cellular & Liver Support Supplements
Milk thistle (silymarin) – This powerful flavonoid complex derived from Silybum marianum has long been used to protect and regenerate liver cells. Silymarin enhances both phase I and phase II detoxification enzyme activity, helping the liver process and eliminate toxins more efficiently.
Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties also protect hepatocytes from oxidative stress caused by drugs, alcohol, or environmental toxins. A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found that silymarin supplementation significantly reduced liver enzymes (AST and ALT) in individuals with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, indicating improved hepatic function (PubMed, 2017). Another comprehensive review confirmed its ability to stabilize cell membranes, boost glutathione levels, and inhibit fibrosis progression in chronic liver conditions (PMC, 2024).
Note: I’ve personally found that milk thistle can cause mild heart palpitations for me, so I tend to avoid it. However, I’ve included it here anyway because it’s a popular and powerful liver-support herb that many people tolerate well. Everyone’s body is different; what doesn’t work for me may work perfectly for you. However, it’s important to consult a qualified functional or holistic practitioner before starting any new supplement or wellness regimen. Please note that I am not a medical professional, and none of the products or equipment mentioned in this blog are intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition. Furthermore, this information should not be used as medical advice.
N-acetylcysteine (NAC) (again) – Boosts glutathione, supports lung mucus clearance, and tissue recovery as mentioned above.
Cordyceps mushroom – Cordyceps mushrooms are renowned in both traditional and modern herbal medicine for their ability to enhance oxygen utilization and support respiratory health. By improving the efficiency of oxygen uptake in the lungs, cordyceps can help increase energy and stamina, making them particularly beneficial for individuals with compromised lung function or those recovering from exposure to environmental irritants such as smoke, pollution, or chemical fumes.
Beyond their respiratory benefits, cordyceps also support lung resilience by promoting healthy tissue repair and reducing oxidative stress, helping the lungs maintain optimal function even under strain. This makes them a valuable adaptogenic ally for overall lung health and endurance. (PubMed 2012, PubMed 2025, PubMed 2015).
Now that my gut has undergone significant healing, I’ve been experimenting more with medicinal mushrooms for their incredible health benefits, particularly because they naturally contain beta-glucans. Beta-glucans contribute to immune support, helping the body respond to pathogens and inflammation, reducing chronic low-grade inflammation in tissues, including the lungs, and provide adaptogenic support by working synergistically with other bioactive compounds like cordycepin and polysaccharides to improve resilience to stress and oxidative damage.
In the past, I used Chaga [linked HERE] in a high-potency tea combined with Pau D’Arco tincture [linked HERE] or the raw bark. After taking this regimen off and on for about a year, I cleared a whirlwind of seasonal allergies that had been contributing to sinusitis and eliminated a stubborn Candida overgrowth that no diet alone could resolve. As Jini Patel from Listen to Your Gut notes, medicinal mushrooms have long been used with IBD sufferers, and her IBD Remission Diet book even includes a recipe for mushroom broth, where beta-glucans are released into the broth, creating a powerful immune-boosting tonic.
Steam Inhalation with Eucalyptus or Pine Essential Oil – Steam inhalation is a simple yet effective way to support respiratory health and soothe irritated airways. By inhaling warm, humid steam, the body can more easily loosen mucus and clear inhaled particulates from the nasal passages and lungs.
Adding a few drops of eucalyptus which I purchase from my local health food store or pine essential oil (I use this pine oil [linked HERE] because this one is safe enough to ingest which I often do as well), enhances this effect: eucalyptus contains 1,8-cineole, known for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and mucus-thinning properties, while pine oil helps calm respiratory membranes and reduce irritation.
To do this safely at home, fill a bowl with hot (not boiling) water, add 2–3 drops of essential oil, and lean over the bowl with a towel over your head for 5–10 minutes. Always keep your eyes closed and maintain a comfortable distance to avoid burns.
Regular use can help relieve congestion, support lung resilience, and ease breathing after exposure to irritants. This would also be a great thing to do if you think you might be getting a cold or feel a bit congested.
The Benefits of Doing Daily Red/Blue & Near-Infrared Light Therapy & The Super Sauna Photon Genius
Infrared sauna – Consistent use of infrared saunas supports the body’s natural detoxification processes through heat-induced sweating, which helps eliminate a range of toxic elements, including heavy metals such as aluminum, arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury. Beyond direct toxin excretion, regular sauna sessions improve circulation, stimulate lymphatic flow, and support key detox organs like the skin and kidneys.
Sweating also helps remove lipid-soluble toxins stored in fat tissue, while the heat stress promotes cellular repair, reduces inflammation, and improves cardiovascular function by temporarily increasing heart rate and blood flow, mimicking moderate exercise.
Over time, these physiological responses strengthen the body’s resilience to environmental pollutants, enhance immune function, and boost overall energy and vitality, making sauna therapy a powerful adjunct to a holistic wellness protocol.
The Super Sauna Photon Genius: The Photon Genius goes far beyond a traditional infrared sauna; it’s an advanced detoxification system that combines near and far infrared light through 72 powerful ceramic heaters standing over six feet tall. Its open-face design allows for full-body exposure and higher hyperthermia-level temperatures while remaining comfortable and breathable for most users.
What truly sets it apart is its use of noble gas tubes, which, when electrically excited through colored glass, emit a symphony of therapeutic light frequencies and harmonics. This provides not only color therapy but also energetic balancing that works synergistically with the body to restore optimal function and vitality.
This unique system penetrates deeply into tissues, enhancing detoxification, circulation, lymphatic flow, and cellular balance like no other piece of equipment that we have ever used before, and trust me, we have used many!
The Photon Genius also boosts nitric oxide production, supporting cardiovascular health and oxygenation. Over time, those who use the equipment regularly report feeling lighter, clearer, and more energized, with reduced inflammation, improved skin tone, and stronger immunity.
In one remarkable case, my husband, who had been struggling with a painful, recurring shingles rash for nearly six months, experienced dramatic healing within just two weeks of using the Photon Genius daily for two one-hour sessions (or four 20–30-minute sessions). At the time, we were accessing the equipment out of province, and he wanted to make the most of the limited two-week period before returning home, which is why he used it so much in such a short period of time.
Now that we have our own studio here in Ontario, we take a more gradual and individualized approach. We typically recommend starting with one 20–30-minute session, 3–5 times per week. However, even this frequency may be too much for those who have no experience with electromedicine. However, after your first three sessions, which should be done ideally in the same week, we will reassess your tolerance to determine the ideal duration, strength, and frequency suited to your body’s individual needs.
It’s important to understand that every person’s experience is unique. While some individuals may notice rapid results, others may experience more gradual changes over time. Outcomes depend on various factors, including overall health status, toxin load, and commitment to continued detoxification and supportive lifestyle practices. My husband’s rash never returned, and his nerve pain was healed, but each healing journey unfolds differently.
These kinds of outcomes demonstrate why the Photon Genius is regarded as one of the most powerful tools for supporting balance, detoxification, and rejuvenation at a deep cellular level.
Disclaimer: The Photon Genius is not a medical device and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We are not medical practitioners and do not provide medical advice. All information shared is for educational and wellness purposes only. Individual results may vary, and no specific outcome is guaranteed. Please consult with your healthcare provider before beginning any new wellness or detox program.
Red and Near-Infrared Light Therapy (Photobiomodulation) – Light is one of the body’s most powerful healing catalysts, and photobiomodulation (PBM) harnesses that light with precision.
This therapy uses non-ionizing light sources such as LEDs across the red, green, blue, and near-infrared (NIR) spectrum to trigger photochemical reactions within cells. When absorbed by cellular chromophores, particularly cytochrome c oxidase in the mitochondria, these wavelengths stimulate ATP (energy) production and release nitric oxide, the Nobel Prize-winning molecule known for improving circulation and cellular communication.
The result is accelerated tissue repair, reduced inflammation, increased blood flow (as the video demonstrates below), oxygenation, and profound pain relief, all without heat damage, medication, or invasive procedures.
InLight and Lumen Systems elevate this process far beyond ordinary red light panels. Their flexible neoprene pads can be placed directly on the body to target specific organs, joints, or lymphatic regions, delivering light precisely where it’s needed. The other benefit of having these lights here in our studio is that they may be a better option for those who are not quite ready to jump into the Photon Genius, and they can be placed on the body while you lie down comfortably, instead of having to stand up.
Their proprietary Progressive Multi-Pulse™ technology alternates pulsed frequencies to prevent tissue desensitization and enhance nervous system balance, something static red light panels simply cannot do. This pulsed photonic rhythm communicates directly with the body’s biofield, guiding it back into coherence and activating natural self-repair mechanisms. With decades of development and FDA Class II clearance, InLight/Lumen represents the pinnacle of home-based and clinical phototherapy, combining science and energy medicine into one integrative system.
Regular sessions support whole-body detoxification by stimulating circulation, lymph flow, and mitochondrial metabolism, helping the body release stored toxins while renewing cellular vitality.
Clients consistently report relief from chronic pain, inflammation, mood imbalances, and skin issues, alongside increased energy and mental clarity.
As every cell in the human body is designed to respond to light, photobiomodulation reawakens this innate intelligence, restoring balance and resilience from the inside out. Whether used at home or in a therapeutic session, InLight and Lumen Systems offer a non-invasive, drug-free way to renew vitality, accelerate recovery, and align the body’s natural healing pathways, making them powerful allies for anyone committed to deep, holistic wellness.
If you’d like to learn more about the InLight System, how it works, its wide range of applications, or how to connect with a representative for home or clinical purchase, I’d be happy to assist. The InLight System stands apart from other red-light devices for its versatility, offering not only red light but also near-infrared (NIR), blue, and now green light, along with an exclusive variety of flexible pads and proprietary pulsed frequency programs. This unique combination makes the system exceptionally adaptable for a wide range of wellness goals and therapeutic needs.
Whether you’re interested in the 2-port system for convenient at-home use or the 6-port system designed for professional or clinical settings, I can connect you with my InLight associate who can provide more details on pricing, program options, and recommended applications. To inquire, please email me directly at thehealinghandsduo@gmail.com with the subject line “Discovery Call” to schedule a FREE 15-minute consultation.
Suppose you’d like to experience the benefits of light therapy firsthand. In that case, we’re currently booking out to the second week of November for private light therapy sessions. If you’d like to reserve your spot or learn more about personalized wellness support, reach out soon to secure your preferred time.
Final Reflection
As we pause to take in the beauty and the cost of those fleeting lights in the sky, may we remember that true illumination doesn’t come from fireworks or fleeting sparks above but from the quiet flame we nurture within. The real radiance is born through awareness, in how we live, how we heal, and how we choose to care for one another and for the Earth that sustains us.
Let’s celebrate in ways that uplift rather than harm, ways that honor both our heritage and our shared home. And for those walking the long road of healing, remember this: even in the darkest nights, the will to heal is its own kind of light. Not every path looks the same, and some souls we’ve loved have gone too soon, but their light continues through us, carried forward in hope, resilience, and love.
Because the truest revolution of light isn’t found in the sky at all, it’s the awakening happening quietly within each of us. It’s the courage to heal, to rise, and to remember that where there is will, there is always a way.
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This content is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. None of the information, technologies, supplements or protocols mentioned above is intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease and may not have been evaluated by the FDA or Health Canada. Always consult your healthcare provider before beginning any new wellness regimen. We also encourage you to do your own research. This information reflects our own research, experiences, and personal healing journey, and is shared for educational purposes only.
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We only recommend products, tools, and services that we personally use, trust, and believe align with our values for supporting body, mind, and soul wellness. While we strive to provide accurate information, we do not control third-party companies and cannot guarantee shipping, product quality, or satisfaction. For any issues with a product purchased through an affiliate link, please contact the company directly.
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All original protocols, ideas, and materials shared by The Healing Hands Duo (Jessica & Kevin) are the result of years of personal research, practice, and lived experience (2008–2025), and are copyrighted under www.thehealinghandsduo.com © 2018–2025.
While we encourage sharing with proper credit, please do not copy, sell, or republish any of our content without written permission. If you use or reference our work, we ask that you include a clear link back to our website or social media channels.
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