Scientists took a campaign against so-called detox treatments to the High Streets yesterday.
A young scientist group leafleted the public in central London, urging them not to be spend money on expensive treatments to purge their Christmas excesses.
The scientists also published a dossier, highlighting the responses they received from makers of detox products.
According to the dossier, those who promote detox substances cannot provide "reliable evidence" of their benefits – or consistent explanations.
Most retailers had to admit they were simply renaming mundane tasks, such as cleaning and brushing, as detox, they said.
The investigation showed that detox bath accessories can be sold for as much as £36.95.
The dossier was published by the Sense about Science organisation which runs the Voice of Young Science network to help young scientists take part in public debate.
Scientist Tom Wells said: "The minimum sellers of detox products should be able to offer is a clear understanding of what detox is and proof that their product actually works. The people we contacted could do neither."
The leaflet circulated yesterday suggests three simple steps to help people recover from excess – a glass of water, a balanced diet and a good night’s sleep.
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