The Purification Rundown is a highly controversial detoxification program developed by Scientology's founder L. Ron Hubbard and used by the Church of Scientology as an introductory service. It forms the basis for drug rehabilitation and detoxification programs operated by church-affiliated groups such as Narconon, Second Chance, and the International Academy of Detoxification Specialists. The program is condemned by the majority of the medical profession, but supported by a small minority.
The most controversial elements of the program are its heavy use of vitamin B3 (Niacin), which can cause liver damage , and extensive use of saunas beyond what is considered a safe level. Saunas in particular are unsafe for asthma sufferers.
According to the Church's website, the program is a "combination of exercise, vitamins, nutrition and sauna use," which "dislodges drug residues and other toxins from the fatty tissues so that these substances can then be eliminated from the body."
The full procedure is available in the book Clear Body, Clear Mind.
