Cleanse Your Kidneys, Liver & Lungs Naturally: The Powerful Healing Properties of Celery You Need to Know

In our modern world, the body is constantly exposed to toxins—from processed food and environmental pollution to synthetic chemicals and medications. Over time, these substances accumulate in the organs responsible for detoxification: the kidneys, liver, and lungs. If these systems become sluggish or overburdened, it can lead to chronic fatigue, inflammation, skin issues, and even more serious health problems. Fortunately, nature has equipped us with powerful remedies to support our internal detoxification systems, and one of the most underrated heroes in this story is celery.

Celery might seem like a simple vegetable, often overshadowed by trendier health foods, but it holds remarkable healing properties that have been recognized in both traditional and modern medicine. From cleansing the kidneys and liver to acting as a natural bacteria killer in the lungs and digestive system, celery deserves a place in your daily routine. In this 2000-word post, we’ll explore how celery works in the body, why it’s especially powerful for detoxing the liver, kidneys, and lungs, and how to incorporate it into your diet with a simple, effective daily recipe.

Let’s start with the kidneys, the body’s filtration system. These bean-shaped organs filter about 50 gallons of blood every single day, removing waste, excess minerals, and toxins. When overworked or undernourished, the kidneys can develop issues like kidney stones, water retention, or infection. Celery acts as a diuretic, increasing urine production and flushing out toxins and excess sodium from the body. Its high water content and natural sodium-potassium balance make it perfect for supporting healthy kidney function without dehydrating the body like synthetic diuretics often do.

Celery also contains compounds known as phthalides, which help to relax the tissues of the arteries and improve circulation to the kidneys. Improved blood flow enhances the kidneys’ ability to filter the blood and maintain proper electrolyte balance. Additionally, celery contains anti-inflammatory compounds like luteolin and apigenin, which reduce inflammation in the kidneys and urinary tract, lowering the risk of infections and stones.

Next, we look at the liver, often referred to as the body’s chemical factory. The liver performs over 500 vital functions, including converting toxins into waste, metabolizing fats, processing nutrients, and producing bile for digestion. When it becomes sluggish or fatty, the effects ripple throughout the entire body—causing fatigue, hormonal imbalances, poor digestion, and skin problems. Celery supports liver health in several ways. First, it contains antioxidants like vitamin C, beta-carotene, and flavonoids, which neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in liver cells.

Celery also contains compounds that increase bile production, which is essential for breaking down fats and eliminating toxins through the digestive tract. Barbara O’Neill often emphasizes that poor bile flow is one of the leading causes of liver congestion and gallbladder issues, so enhancing this function naturally is crucial. Moreover, celery’s alkalizing properties help neutralize acidic waste in the body and protect the liver from excess acidity and inflammation. Its fiber content also helps bind to cholesterol and toxic substances in the gut, preventing them from being reabsorbed into the bloodstream and giving the liver a much-needed break.

When it comes to the lungs, celery may not be the first vegetable that comes to mind, but its benefits are impressive. Lungs are another major detox organ, constantly exposed to airborne pollutants, dust, smoke, and even pathogens like bacteria and viruses. Celery’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties help cleanse the respiratory system and prevent infections. Its essential oils and flavonoids can reduce mucus production, open up the airways, and soothe inflamed bronchial passages.

Celery juice, in particular, has been shown to thin mucus, making it easier to expel and helping to keep the lungs clear and functioning properly. This is especially helpful for people suffering from asthma, bronchitis, or seasonal allergies. Furthermore, the high vitamin C content in celery supports the immune system and boosts the production of white blood cells that combat respiratory infections. The potassium and magnesium in celery also relax the muscles around the lungs and airways, supporting easier breathing.

In addition to cleansing the liver, kidneys, and lungs, celery also offers a range of other health benefits that make it worth consuming daily. It helps lower blood pressure, reduce bloating, promote weight loss, balance blood sugar, and even improve skin clarity. According to Barbara O’Neill, any time you support the organs of elimination—such as the liver, kidneys, lungs, and skin—you are creating an environment in which the body can heal itself more effectively. She encourages the use of whole foods like celery in their raw, unprocessed form to promote true, long-term healing rather than relying on short-term solutions or medications that suppress symptoms.

Now let’s look at how to prepare a simple and powerful daily celery drink that supports detoxification and immunity.

Celery Detox Drink Recipe:

• 1 large bunch of organic celery (about 8-10 stalks)

• ½ cucumber (optional for extra hydration)

• Juice of ½ lemon (optional for vitamin C boost and better taste)

• Small piece of fresh ginger (optional for anti-inflammatory benefits)

• 1 cup water (only if needed to blend)

Instructions:

1. Wash the celery thoroughly to remove dirt and pesticides (even better if it’s organic).

2. Chop the celery and optional ingredients into smaller pieces.

3. Place in a high-speed blender or juicer. If using a blender, add water to help with blending.

4. Blend until smooth, then strain through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth for a juice-like consistency (optional).

5. Drink immediately in the morning on an empty stomach for best results.

Drinking this every day can have powerful effects within just a few weeks. Many people report improved digestion, more energy, clearer skin, and better respiratory function after just a few days. If you find the taste too strong at first, you can gradually increase the amount of celery or mix it with apple or cucumber until you adapt.

For best results, avoid pairing celery juice with heavy meals or sugary foods. The purpose is to give your organs a break and allow them to flush out toxins, so keeping your overall diet light and whole-food-based will multiply the benefits. Pair this with good hydration, regular movement, deep breathing, and adequate sleep to allow your body to detox thoroughly and naturally.

One important note: while celery is generally very safe, those on blood pressure medications or diuretics should monitor their intake, as it can naturally lower blood pressure and enhance urine output. It’s always wise to consult a natural health practitioner or nutritionist if you’re on medications and want to begin a detox regimen.

In summary, celery may seem like a humble vegetable, but its power to support the kidneys, liver, and lungs makes it a true natural healer. From flushing out toxins to fighting bacteria and inflammation, celery is an essential part of any detox plan. As Barbara O’Neill teaches, healing begins with simple, everyday actions—like drinking a green juice in the morning instead of reaching for caffeine or processed foods. The body has an amazing ability to restore itself when we give it the right tools, and celery is one of the most accessible, affordable, and effective tools we have.