If you do the lax tea morning and night, you don't have to do the SWF, according to the book it is optional. But I believe it is the best way to get the toxins out. Plus, the lax teas give me terrible cramps and the bathroom appointments are unknown and ongoing, whereas with the SWF (Salt-Water-Flush) you know you're going to be in the bathroom approximately 1-2 hours after you take it.