7 HERBS THAT SUPPORT LIVER FUNCTION

By Sam Musa PharmD.

Milk Thistle:

Milk thistle is a plant whose fruit and seeds have been used for more than 2,000 years as a traditional remedy for disorders of the liver, bile ducts, and gallbladder. The medicinal ingredient found in milk thistle is silymarin. Silymarin is an antioxidant that protects against cell damage.This antioxidants contains four compounds: silybin (the most active), isosilybin, silychristin and silydianin. Over the past thirty plus years, intensive chemical, pharmacological and clinical research has confirmed the mechanisms of action and therapeutic value of silymarin in a wide range of human liver disorders. This may include toxic metabolic liver damage (such as fatty degeneration of the liver) and supportive treatment of chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis. Silymarin, derived from the seeds of the plant, has shown protective and restorative potential for liver cells. The plant is a primary example of the usefulness of historical efficacy as a starting point for the development of modern application. 

 

Blackseed:

 

The combined nutritional and medicinal value of black seed helps the body develop resistance against ailments or disease. Black seed helps regulate reactions of the immune system that are too weak or too strong and is excellent for treating chronic, allergic and hormonal diseases. Black seed supports metabolism, improves digestion and helps lower blood sugar levels; all of these play a role in liver health. 

 

Artichoke:  

Clinical research has documented the following beneficial properties of artichoke: 

1) Helps protect healthy cardiovascular function and as a result stimulates 2) Helps stimulate the synthesis of bile, a product of the liver that supports detoxification and absorption of fat-soluble nutrients. 

3)Studies have shown artichoke leaves reduce cholesterol by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase and having hypolipidemic influence, lowering blood cholesterol. 

 

Garlic:

Garlic is rich in antioxidants, which help destroy free radicals, which are particles that can damage liver cell membranes, interact with genetic material and possibly contribute to the aging process as well as the development of a number of conditions, including heart disease and cancer. Free radicals occur naturally in the body, but environmental toxins (including ultraviolet light, radiation, cigarette smoke and air pollution) can increase the number of these damaging particles. Antioxidants found in garlic help neutralize free radicals and may reduce or even help prevent damage to the liver and the rest of the bodily organs. 

 

Dandelion:

While most people think of the common dandelion as a pesky week, herbalists consider it a valuable herb with many medicinal uses. Dandelion is a rich source of vitamins A, B Complex, C and D, as well as minerals such as iron, potassium and zinc. In traditional medicine, dandelion roots and leaves were used to treat liver problems. Today, dandelion roots are mainly used as aid for digestion, liver and gallbladder functions. Dandelion root is a gentle and safe natural blood cleanser and detoxifier. Dandelion leaves are used to stimulate the excretion of urine. Dandelion acts as a natural diuretic and increases urine production by promoting the excretion of salts and water from the kidney. This diuretic  support helps the liver and body rid itself of dangerous toxins. Dandelion is a good source of potassium, a nutrient often lost through the use of natural and synthetic diuretics.

 

Ginger: 

Scientists have found evidence to support ginger's wide range of medicinal actions on the liver. These actions include the lowering of cholesterol levels and protecting the liver against toxins and parasites. Ginger has been shown to support the inhibition of cholesterol production in the liver, which makes up to 85% of the cholesterol in circulation in the bloodstream. 

 

Honey: