Stanley Burroughs

From WikiMD.com Medical Encyclopedia

Article about Stanley Burroughs, creator of the Master Cleanse


Stanley Burroughs was an American alternative health practitioner and author, best known for creating the Master Cleanse, a liquid diet detoxification program. His work has been both influential and controversial in the field of alternative medicine.

Early Life[edit | edit source]

Stanley Burroughs was born in the early 20th century in the United States. Little is known about his early life and education, but he became interested in alternative health practices and natural healing methods.

The Master Cleanse[edit | edit source]

Stanley Burroughs, creator of the Master Cleanse

The Master Cleanse, also known as the "Lemonade Diet," is a liquid diet that Burroughs developed in the 1940s. It is designed to detoxify the body and promote weight loss. The cleanse involves consuming a mixture of fresh lemon juice, maple syrup, cayenne pepper, and water for a period of 10 days or more, while abstaining from solid foods.

Components[edit | edit source]

The main components of the Master Cleanse are:

  • Lemon Juice: Provides vitamin C and antioxidants.
  • Maple Syrup: Supplies calories and minerals.
  • Cayenne Pepper: Believed to boost metabolism and circulation.
  • Water: Essential for hydration and detoxification.

Procedure[edit | edit source]

Participants are instructed to drink 6 to 12 glasses of the lemonade mixture daily. Additionally, a herbal laxative tea is recommended at night, and a salt-water flush is suggested in the morning to aid in the elimination of toxins.

Controversy and Criticism[edit | edit source]

The Master Cleanse has been criticized by medical professionals for its lack of scientific evidence and potential health risks. Critics argue that the diet is nutritionally inadequate and may lead to muscle loss, electrolyte imbalances, and other health issues. Despite this, the cleanse has gained popularity among celebrities and health enthusiasts.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

Stanley Burroughs published several books on the Master Cleanse and other health topics, including "The Master Cleanser" and "Healing for the Age of Enlightenment." His work continues to influence the alternative health community, though it remains a subject of debate among health professionals.

Related pages[edit | edit source]

WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD