Many proponents of herbal medicine suggest using herbs to enhance the health of your liver , an organ responsible for clearing toxins from your body. Indeed, some research shows that certain herbs may help fight liver disorders like cirrhosis scarring of the liver or infections like hepatitis B and hepatitis C causes of liver inflammation.

Here's a look at several herbs that show promise as a natural means of boosting liver health. Milk thistle may benefit people with cirrhosis of the liver, according to a report published in A research review looked at several clinical trials testing milk thistle in the treatment of hepatitis B and C.

Preliminary research indicates that turmeric may be useful in the treatment of hepatitis B and hepatitis C. In a study on liver cells, for instance, scientists discovered that turmeric extract helped stop the hepatitis B virus from replicating. A test-tube study published in , meanwhile, demonstrated that turmeric extract might help suppress the replication of the hepatitis C virus.

Burdock an herb often used as a natural detox remedy may help shield liver cells from acetaminophen-induced damage, according to an animal study published in Other animal-based research suggests that burdock may also help protect the liver from damage caused by alcohol consumption.

Given the lack of clinical trials to support their use, neither turmeric nor burdock can currently be recommended for treatment of any type of liver disease.

Since the scientific support for milk thistle's liver-protecting effects is also limited, it's also too soon to recommend this herb as a principal treatment for liver problems. To enhance your liver health every day, the American Liver Foundation encourages following a healthy diet, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting your alcohol intake, keeping your cholesterol in check, and washing your hands frequently in order to prevent infection.

Always remember that animal research results cannot automatically be applied to humans. If you're considering the use of herbs for liver health, make sure to consult your physician before beginning treatment.

Symptoms of liver damage can include nausea and vomiting, feeling tired or weak, a poor appetite, losing weight without trying, and mild pain or discomfort in the upper right side of your abdomen. Milk thistle, turmeric, and burdock are three supplements often used to improve liver health. Of the three, milk thistle has the most evidence to support it can benefit liver health.

Foods that can help improve liver health include fruits, vegetables, and whole grains high in fiber. Aim for a healthy, balanced diet that includes lean protein, low-fat dairy, and unsaturated fats.

Foods to avoid if you have liver damage include those that are high in fat, sugar, and salt. Alcohol can also contribute to liver damage. Avoid or limit alcohol to no more than one drink a day if you are a woman or two drinks a day for a man.

Latief U, Ahmad R. Herbal remedies for liver fibrosis: A review on the mode of action of fifty herbs. Overall, Cordyceps mushroom works to decrease overall exposure to toxins as well as supporting endogenous antioxidant synthesis and decreases pro-inflammatory markers.

Try Cordyceps mushroom for liver health. Turmeric root Curcuma longa has been used in India for centuries as one of the most potent Ayurvedic herbs. Turmeric is known as a powerful anti-inflammatory and is revered for its ability to treat and prevent numerous inflammation-based diseases.

In regards to liver detoxification, Turmeric is another herb that supports phase 1 and phase 2 detoxification pathways. Additionally, Turmeric is hepatoprotective and helps protect and detoxify liver cells hepatocytes from damage when exposed to these reactive species as they transform from lipid soluble to water soluble.

This plays into the potent antioxidant effects of Turmeric root by donating itself to cancel out the free radical species that drive cellular damage and accelerate disease and ageing of the liver.

A study on mice demonstrated the effectiveness of Turmeric root in protecting and improving liver detoxification by lowering inflammatory markers and mediators, reducing oxidative stress and increasing endogenous glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase SOD in the blood. Being a phase 1 and phase 2 inducer, Turmeric helps balance the see-saw effect that is phase 1 and phase 2 liver detoxification.

As mentioned in the beginning of the article, phase 1 is all about the biotransformation of lipid soluble fat loving molecules into water loving molecules, able to then be transformed in phase 2 to be excreted. Turmeric being both a phase 1 and phase 2 liver health herb balances the detoxification processes and further protects the liver cells.

Turmeric is well known for shielding the liver from oxidative stress, suppresses proinflammatory cytokines, increases and induces the Nrf2 pathway, increases SOD and GSH and GPx glutathione peroxidase, the enzyme that recycles glutathione so we can keep using it. Schisandra berry Schisandra chinensis is another highly revered tonic herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine TCM that has a unique ability to support the regeneration of healthy liver cells — categorised as a hepatic trophorestorative.

This unique trait makes Schisandra berry a profound and superior adaptogen and liver supportive herb. Lignans are the key bioactive compounds in Schisandra berry that protect liver cells from dying and increase membrane stability. In specific rat studies, Schisandra was shown to induce the regeneration of liver tissue after part of the liver was surgically removed, indicating how powerful this herb is in literally regrowing and supporting the regeneration of liver health.

Being an adaptogen, Schisandra increases our resilience to a vast array of physical, chemical and emotional stressors.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine theory, Schisandra contains all five flavours, enters all 12 meridians and nourishes the detoxification organs; kidneys lung and spleen. Try Schizandra for liver support. When I consider Ginger and its role in liver detoxification, I think about its ability to enhance digestion, boost immunity, increase circulation, supporting our emunctories, help eliminate toxins and prevent viral toxic by-products from contaminating our systems.

Specifically, Ginger has been shown to protect the liver and support it in eliminating xenobiotic agents like alcohol, heavy metals, parabens and other endocrine disrupting compounds we tend to be exposed to through personal products—skin care, soaps, detergents, deodorants etc.

Linking back to its function as an immune and circulatory herb, Ginger helps prevents additional toxic exposure and build up from viral and bacterial assaults decreasing the burden on the liver.

In respect to circulation, the more we move the body, the more we stimulate the lymph which is a key system that intertwines with the immune system and delivers nutrients to our cells and removes waste to be excreted. Ginger is classified as warming which helps improve the delivery of nutrients to liver cells and enhances their ability to perform their many functions optimally.

Additionally, Ginger is a potent antioxidant and free radical scavenger, enhancing SOD and GPx, and supports both phases of liver detoxification. In mice studies, Ginger was shown to induce GST and Nrf2 transcription factors and neutralises lipid peroxidation in hepatocytes.

Moving away from the herbs and into nutrients for a moment, Selenium is a key trace mineral required for detoxing the liver.

A healthy liver makes glutathione and we need selenium to make GPx — glutathione peroxidase, the enzyme that recycles and renews glutathione.

Selenium is also a potent antioxidant mineral. Selenium protects the liver and prevents oxidative liver damage. This also speaks to why buying local and organic and biodynamic foods wherever possible.

Milk Thistle Silybum marianum is one of the most well-known herbs for detoxification of liver. Milk Thistle works on phase 1 and phase 2 detoxification pathways Hechtman. Milk Thistle is hepatoprotective, a cholagogue, hepatic, anti-inflammatory and superb cholesterol lowering herb.

Milk Thistle enhances liver function and inhibits free radical damage by acting as an antioxidant. Milk Thistle works beautifully alongside Schisandra berry to really support healthy liver regeneration.

Milk Thistle prevents toxins binding to cell membrane receptors and damaging cell function and organelles, thereby, decreasing unnecessary cell death which is a really unique ability of this healthy liver herb.

Milk Thistle also inhibits leukotriene enzymes and prostaglandin. It reduces inflammation, and enhances phase 2 liver enzymes, specifically Glutathionation pathways, which are responsible for detoxifying pesticides, paracetamol, toxic heavy metals such as mercury, cadmium and lead, penicillin, alcohol, petroleum distillates and tetracycline.

Cardamom Elettaria cardamomum is a well-known spice used throughout Asia and India that acts as a potent antioxidant with a high ORAC Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity value. Cardamom reduces liver damage from oxidative stress, decreases the creation of cytokines, TNFa and IL6 — 3x potent pro-inflammatory cytokines that signal degradation within the body.

Cardamom also increases glutathione levels and is a COX2 inhibitor. The COX2 pathway is a pro-inflammatory pathway which as we know, inflammation is at the root of all chronic symptoms and disease states.

Artichoke Cynara cardunculus, variety scolymus , also known as globe artichoke, improves bile concentration and works harmoniously on both the liver and gallbladder by supporting the entire hepatobiliary system. Bile enables the emulsification and absorption of dietary lipids and fat-soluble vitamins; Vitamin A, D, E and K.

The gallbladder plays a key role in waste removal and when not functioning optimally, there is a decrease in the ability to excrete toxins that the liver has transformed and metabolised.

Bile is the major elimination vehicle for cholesterol and other lipid soluble compounds, including hormones and pheromones.

Research has shown that the same transporters that carry bile acids in and out of the intestines, also carry heavy metals, mycotoxins and bacterial toxins.

This indicates that the presence and movement of bile assists the elimination of such toxins. Bile is also made up of cholesterol, which when in excess, is known to add burden to the liver and drive an array of metabolic diseases. Chicory root, like Dandelion and Artichoke is another bitter herb that helps increase the production and flow of bile.

Chicory contains inulin — a prebiotic fibre that nourishes and feeds intestinal bacteria. We know the large intestines are a key piece of the detoxification puzzle. A healthy microbiome also enables a healthy excretion of all the toxins the liver works so tirelessly to excrete, as well as enabling the absorption of the nutrients we receive from our food to fuel the hepatocytes in their dynamic functions.

Chicory root also works on phase 1 CYP enzymes, specifically CYP1A2 and CYP2. Chicory is also rich in polyphenols which provides that antioxidant effect for supporting the liver and reducing oxidative stress.

The best herbs for liver health to naturally detoxify liver and support its role in whole body detoxification are Reishi mushroom, Astragalus root, Dandelion, Cordyceps mushroom, Turmeric root, Schizandra berry, Ginger, Selenium, Milk Thistle, Cardamom, Globe Artichoke and Chicory root.

Taking a holistic approach to heal the liver naturally is important for the removal of toxins the body takes in from the environment and from our lifestyle. Holistic steps you can take to heal the liver naturally are;.

The best herbs for liver health is a combination of Reishi mushroom, Schizandra berry, Turmeric root and milk thistle. While that combination may not sound very enjoyable, you can add other vegetables that you enjoy to the mix, including carrots, cucumber, beets and greens.

All of these vegetables help reduce acid levels in the body, helping create a more friendly pH balance. Experiment with your favorite flavor combinations. You can add fresh herbs, including parsley, mint and others, to make the juices more enjoyable. To improve liver health, try this Orange Carrot Ginger Juice.

Research suggests that fresh, organic carrots are essential to any liver cleanse. In the liver, beta-carotene is converted into vitamin A to help flush out the toxins in the body while reducing fat in the liver. The high fiber content helps support a healthy digestive tract, hastening the elimination of toxins in your body.

The ginger root helps soothe the digestive tract, reduce intestinal gas and has strong anti-inflammatory compounds. The fresh oranges in this recipe not only add tangy sweetness, but also add significant vitamin C, additional vitamin A and vitamin B6.

Potassium-rich foods help lower systolic blood pressure , reduce cholesterol and support a healthy cardiovascular system , in addition to helping cleanse your liver. If you have been tempted to take potassium supplements, instead add these healthful foods to your diet:.

Surprisingly, it is not the banana that is the richest in potassium. It is the sweet potato. A single medium sweet potato contains more than milligrams of potassium, not to mention the high fiber and beta-carotene content. A sweet potato is rich with vitamins B6, C and D, along with magnesium and iron.

While naturally sweet, the sugars actually are slowly released into the bloodstream through the liver, without causing a spike in blood sugar. Potassium — and the other beneficial nutrients in tomatoes — is significantly concentrated as a sauce, puree or as a paste.

When selecting tomato sauce, paste or puree, be sure to choose those made only from organic tomatoes. To make your own concentrated tomato sauce, slice organic tomatoes in half, and roast face down in the oven for 30 minutes at degrees F, until the skin has shriveled.

Remove from the oven, and let cool. Slide the skins off, and gently crush in your food processor or blender. Strain to remove seeds, if you desire. Pour into a Dutch oven, and let simmer until thick, one to two hours. Rich in antioxidants, beet greens are loaded with potassium.

Add beets and beet greens to your fresh vegetable juice recipe; finely chop and add raw to salads; or sauté lightly, like other greens. Beets also naturally cleanse the gallbladder and improve bile flow. White beans, kidney beans and lima beans are all rich in potassium, protein and fiber.

Swap out garbanzo beans for one of these potassium-rich beans in your favorite hummus recipe. Enjoy it with carrot sticks and celery sticks. In addition to potassium, blackstrap molasses is rich with iron, calcium, manganese and copper. Incorporate blackstrap molasses into your diet by replacing other natural sweeteners with it.

You can use it to create barbecue sauces and to top oatmeal or quinoa porridge in the mornings. Two teaspoons added to coffee intensifies the richness of the coffee, while lowering the acidic taste. And finally, add a banana to your favorite smoothie. Bananas assist in digestion and help release toxins and heavy metals from the body — all of which are essential during a liver cleanse.

Please note: If you have high levels of potassium in your kidneys, foods rich in potassium should be consumed moderately.

Coffee enemas help with constipation , reduce fatigue and aid in liver detoxification. An enema targets the lower portion of your large intestine and can be done at home, unlike colonics, which include the entire bowel and are performed outside the home by a professional.

During the enema, organic coffee is retained in your bowel, allowing the fluid to enter the liver through the intestinal wall. This has a stimulating effect that increases bile flow, helping jump-start both your gallbladder and your liver.

This sparks the production of the chemical glutathione, a strong cleansing compound that helps release the buildup of toxins in your system.

It is considered a blood purifier and a liver cleanser and helps with lymphatic congestion by stimulating lymphatic drainage.

It can help with a full body detox and relieve skin problems that are associated with poor liver function or toxins in the body. Burdock root also has a cooling effect. Ginseng is an adaptogenic herb that's most used for improved energy and recovery from stress. However, it also has powerful anti-inflammatory properties that help to protect your liver from damage and may help liver cells to regenerate.

Yellow dock is another bitter root that stimulates bile production and encourages your liver and the rest of your body to get rid of toxins. It also helps with digestion, particularly when taken as a digestive bitter 20 to 30 minutes before a meal.

As always when taking herbs, remember that each one has its specific effects, so be sure to do your research before trying a specific herb. All herbs on this list are "safe" but may interact with medications, etc. Also, liver damage and disease can be very serious, so be sure to consult with a healthcare professional as needed.

And finally, be aware that your diet and lifestyle play a big role in how healthy your liver is. Simply taking herbs will not fix your liver, and they will have the greatest effect when combined with other healthy practices. Herbs are great support for keeping your liver functioning optimally.

They promote cleansing, stimulate bile production, and have a protective effect that helps shield your liver from damage. Natural ways to detox your liver include maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, staying hydrated, getting regular exercise, limiting alcohol and tobacco use, and getting enough sleep.

Yes, dietary changes can help detox the liver. Consuming a variety of nutrient-rich foods, particularly those high in antioxidants and fiber, can assist your liver in detoxification.

Drinking water aids liver detoxification by helping the body flush out toxins. It also supports the kidneys in removing waste from the blood, reducing the burden on the liver. Foods that promote liver health include fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, lean protein, and foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids like fish.

Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and Brussels sprouts are particularly beneficial. Regular exercise can help in detoxing the liver. It helps maintain a healthy weight, which can prevent non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

Exercise also boosts overall metabolism which helps in faster toxin elimination. Alcohol consumption can cause damage to liver cells, which leads to inflammation and scarring.

This can ultimately cause cirrhosis, a late-stage liver disease. It's important to limit alcohol intake for liver health. Good quality sleep is vital for liver health. During sleep, the body works to repair cells and tissues, including those in the liver. This helps the liver better perform its detoxification functions.

Some herbal supplements, such as milk thistle, turmeric, and dandelion root, are believed to assist in liver detoxification. However, always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen. Signs your liver may need detoxification include fatigue, skin and eye yellowing jaundice , abdominal pain, nausea, and changes in appetite.

However, these symptoms could also indicate more serious liver problems, so it's important to seek medical advice. A liver detox can help with weight loss indirectly. By improving the functioning of the liver, your body can metabolize and eliminate fats more efficiently.

Precautions during a liver detox include ensuring you're getting enough nutrients, staying hydrated, and avoiding over-the-counter detox products without first consulting with a healthcare provider.

There are no specific medical procedures to detox the liver. The liver is a self-detoxifying organ. However, in cases of liver disease, medical treatments or even a liver transplant may be necessary.

The frequency of liver detox is highly individual and depends on lifestyle factors such as diet and alcohol consumption. It's best to focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle for ongoing liver health. Quitting smoking can aid liver detoxification. Toxins in cigarette smoke can cause oxidative stress and damage to liver cells.

Eliminating smoking reduces the toxic load your liver has to process. Moderate coffee consumption can aid in liver detoxification. Studies suggest that coffee can protect against liver diseases, including liver cancer and cirrhosis.

Potential risks of a liver detox include nutritional deficiencies if not done properly. Some over-the-counter liver detox products can also have side effects or interact with medications. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting a detox regimen.

Reducing stress can contribute to liver detoxification. Chronic stress can lead to behaviors that cause liver damage, such as excessive drinking and overeating. Stress management techniques, such as meditation and yoga, can support overall health, including liver health.

Overuse of certain medications, especially over-the-counter pain relievers, can harm the liver. Always use medications as directed and consult with a healthcare provider about any concerns. Fiber aids in liver detoxification by promoting a healthy digestive tract.

This helps the body eliminate toxins, reducing the load on the liver. Symptoms of liver toxicity to look out for include yellowing of the skin and eyes jaundice , abdominal pain and swelling, itchy skin, dark urine, nausea or vomiting, chronic fatigue, and loss of appetite.

Reducing alcohol and tobacco intake further protects the liver from unnecessary toxins. Managing stress through practices like meditation or simple breaks can deter unhealthy behaviors impacting the liver as well as reduce bodily inflammation.

In summary, the liver plays a key role in our overall health, and many Americans experience liver-related concerns. Herbs such as turmeric, milk thistle, artichoke, and dandelion root have been traditionally used to support liver function.

Adopting a balanced lifestyle, understanding appropriate dosages, and being aware of potential herb interactions further enhances their benefits. Together, they can be a part of a comprehensive approach to maintaining liver health.

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Men's Health. Mental Health. Metabolic Management. Nutrient Fact Sheets. Research Studies. Running Your Business. Women's Health. Milk Thistle and Liver Detoxification Milk thistle , scientifically known as Silybum marianum, is a herb traditionally used to support liver health.

Turmeric for Liver Inflammation Central to turmeric's health-promoting properties is curcumin , a bioactive compound known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capacities. Dandelion Root Dandelion root has been traditionally used to support liver health.

Artichoke Artichokes contain bioactive compounds, notably cynarin and silymarin, which have potential liver-protective qualities. Incorporating Herbs into Daily Life Incorporating herbs like turmeric, milk thistle, artichoke, and dandelion root can significantly support liver health.

Considerations for Dosage and Form Turmeric is often available in capsule form, providing a concentrated dose of its active ingredient, curcumin. Potential Herb Interactions and Contraindications When integrating these herbs into your routine, be aware of potential interactions.

Lifestyle Changes to Complement Herbal Liver Support For optimal liver health, supplementing with herbs such as turmeric, milk thistle, artichoke, or dandelion root with beneficial lifestyle habits is essential.

The information provided is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your doctor or other qualified healthcare provider before taking any dietary supplement or making any changes to your diet or exercise routine.

Lab Tests in This Article No items found. References 4 Science Backed Health Benefits of The Mediterranean Diet. Slide the skins off, and gently crush in your food processor or blender. Strain to remove seeds, if you desire.

Pour into a Dutch oven, and let simmer until thick, one to two hours. Rich in antioxidants, beet greens are loaded with potassium. Add beets and beet greens to your fresh vegetable juice recipe; finely chop and add raw to salads; or sauté lightly, like other greens.

Beets also naturally cleanse the gallbladder and improve bile flow. White beans, kidney beans and lima beans are all rich in potassium, protein and fiber. Swap out garbanzo beans for one of these potassium-rich beans in your favorite hummus recipe.

Enjoy it with carrot sticks and celery sticks. In addition to potassium, blackstrap molasses is rich with iron, calcium, manganese and copper. Incorporate blackstrap molasses into your diet by replacing other natural sweeteners with it.

You can use it to create barbecue sauces and to top oatmeal or quinoa porridge in the mornings. Two teaspoons added to coffee intensifies the richness of the coffee, while lowering the acidic taste.

And finally, add a banana to your favorite smoothie. Bananas assist in digestion and help release toxins and heavy metals from the body — all of which are essential during a liver cleanse.

Please note: If you have high levels of potassium in your kidneys, foods rich in potassium should be consumed moderately. Coffee enemas help with constipation , reduce fatigue and aid in liver detoxification. An enema targets the lower portion of your large intestine and can be done at home, unlike colonics, which include the entire bowel and are performed outside the home by a professional.

During the enema, organic coffee is retained in your bowel, allowing the fluid to enter the liver through the intestinal wall. This has a stimulating effect that increases bile flow, helping jump-start both your gallbladder and your liver. This sparks the production of the chemical glutathione, a strong cleansing compound that helps release the buildup of toxins in your system.

Combine two tablespoons of organic ground coffee with three cups of filtered or distilled water in a pot, and bring to a boil. Simmer gently for 15 minutes, and allow to cool. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth, and use in your enema kit. Milk thistle helps eliminate the buildup of heavy metals , prescription medications, environmental pollutants and alcohol in the liver.

In addition, it helps reduce the negative effects on the liver after chemotherapy and radiation. Research indicates that the active ingredient silymarin helps strengthen the cell walls in the liver, while supporting healthy regeneration.

Most homeowners hate the dandelion, as it populates yards every spring, but, this flower and its roots are actually packed with vitamins and minerals.

Dandelion root has a natural diuretic effect, allowing your liver to more quickly eliminate toxins. It also helps strengthen the immune system , balance blood sugar levels , relieve heartburn and soothe digestive upset.

Burdock root is another option in the same plant family as dandelions that can help detox your system by cleansing the blood, therefore helping support liver function. Like milk thistle, both dandelion root and burdock root can be taken in both supplement form or as a detox tea.

Turmeric supports healthy liver tissue and liver metabolism. You can also purchase a liver support supplement that combines many of these key botanicals, such as milk thistle seed, dandelion root, beet root and bupleurum root to help detoxify the liver, assist in healthy liver function and also work as an anti-inflammatory.

Liver from young, healthy, grass-fed cattle or chicken liver is rich with vitamins A and B, folic acid, choline, iron, copper, zinc, chromium, and CoQ Liver is one of the most nutrient-dense foods we can eat and unsurprisingly an organ-nourishing food.

Seek a supplement that guarantees no hormones, pesticides or antibiotics are used in the feeding and care of the cattle. In addition to the healthy foods and supplements mentioned above, you can give your liver a boost by starting with a quick, hour liver cleanse.

In the seven days prior to this short cleanse, eat the following liver detox foods:. Avoid any processed foods, and eat free-range organic meats, refined carbohydrates and gluten sparingly.

This preparation will help facilitate the cleanse. During the week you are preparing your body, also try this Secret Detox Drink.