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Chelation is the use of natural and/or chemical substances for the treatment of heavy metal poisoning, congested arteries, autism and other diseases. The use of chelation for heavy metal detoxification is the most common and medically respected usage.

In the case of heavy metal detoxification, the chelating agents are swallowed or injected into the blood stream. These bind themselves to the poisonous metals stored in soft tissue and are eventually removed from the body via urination, excretion and perspiration.

Although in use in traditional medicine, chelation is seldom used except in the case of accute exposure. Heavy metal testing via hair analysis, the most reliable method to test levels of toxicity, is rarely performed by traditional practitioners. Instead, chelation is more commonly prescribed by naturopaths and other alternative practitioners after reviewing the results of a hair analysis.

Oral chelation for the detoxification of heavy metals can take anywhere from a few months to a few years. Chelation via intravenous is quicker, however the side effects of psychosis, hallucinations, dizziness, loss of appetite (which are also present with oral chelation, but generally less severe) can be too drastic and sometimes dangerous.

Some of the more common heavy metals that can be removed by chelation include mercury, lead and aluminim, although this list is far from exhaustive. Common chelating substances used by naturopaths and traditional practitioners include derivatives or concentrates of cilantro, Vitamin C, zinc citrate and/or EDTA. Alternative practitioners may also prescribe a specific diet and other supplements to support detoxification and the proper functioning of the organs under the strain of chelation therapy.

If you suspect you may have heavy metal poisoning, or if you are interested in learning more about chelation therapy, consult both a traditional doctor and a naturopath in order to glean a balanced perspective.

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