Our liver normally carries on its digestive duty without our even being aware of its presence. It is, according to the Merck Manual, "metabolically the most complex organ in the body" and proper liver function is essential to life. Therefore we must treat this important organ carefully. While there are a number of plants that herbalists believe can help this remarkable organ function at peak efficiency, there are no herbs that have been scientifically proven to "detoxify" the liver. Always consult your health care provider about any concerns you have with your liver.
Bupleurum or Chai hu
This root is a member of the carrot family and is known for its potent anti-inflammatory properties, writes Andrew Chevallier in "Herbal Remedies." It has been used for centuries in Eastern medicine to protect the liver and kidneys from damage due to autoimmune deficiency and toxic exposure, but research to back up these claims is limited. Chevallier cautions against taking this herb without medical supervision for autoimmune diseases such as HIV. Check with your health care provider before using bupleurum.
Dandelion Root
"Don't rid your yard of this weed," write Dr. Linda B. White and Steven Foster in "The Herbal Drugstore." "It's an excellent traditional liver remedy." A cup of tea made from dried, chopped root (1 tsp. in a cup of water) helps the liver increase bile production and provides the liver with vitamin B. While some yards are filled with dandelions, it is better to purchase processed roots to avoid ingesting poisonous fertilizers or pesticides often found on our lawns. Chevallier also notes that some people may be allergic to dandelion. Check with your health care provider before using dandelion.
Licorice
Natural licorice root contains antioxidants that have antiviral effects helpful to those suffering from viral hepatitis. Be careful when buying licorice: often the candy is often not made from natural ingredients; it may taste good but does not help the liver. Licorice should not be taken for more than six weeks straight, White and Foster recommend. Check with your health care provider before using licorice.
Milk Thistle
Most herbalists consider this herb to be the most important plant for liver health, and it has been the subject of several scientific studies. Based on this testing, White and Foster write that "this amazing herb protects liver cells from damaging molecules called free radicals, inhibits the production of leukotrienes--inflammatory compounds responsible for some types of liver damage--and boosts the production of one of the liver's hardworking chemicals by 35 percent." However, people with sensitive stomachs may find that milk thistle may cause an upset stomach, but neither Chevallier nor White and Foster report any other negative side-effects. Check with your health care provider before using milk thistle.
References
- "Herbal Remedies"; Andrew Chevallier; 2007
- "The Herbal Drugstore"; Linda B. White, MD and Steven Foster; 2000
- "Gray's Anatomy 15th ed."; Henry Gray, F.R.S.
- "The Merck Manual 18th edition;" Robert S. Porter, MD editor-in-chief; 2004
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