A liver cleanse involves taking certain foods, drinks or supplements to help to remove stored chemicals and toxins that overburden your liver. According to Jason Barker, a naturopathic physician, a liver cleanse may also involve taking saunas, colonics and dry skin brushing. Since your liver is the primary organ necessary for detoxification, keeping it clear of toxins helps to improve your liver's ability to keep you healthy, although there is insufficient evidence to support these claims. A liver cleanse may produce some negative side effects when performed improperly; therefore, consult with your health care provider prior to starting a liver cleanse.
Dandelion Root
According to Beth Israel Deaconess, a Harvard Medical School teaching hospital, many naturopathic physicians use dandelion to help to cleanse and detoxify the liver. Dandelion has been used historically to help with symptoms of liver congestion such as headaches, constipation, eye problems, skin problems, gout and fatigue. Dandelion has a diuretic effect and may also help to increase bile secretion and reduce the symptoms of poor liver function. You can take dandelion root as a liquid tincture, herbal extract or in dried form. Consult with your health care provider prior to taking dandelion root.
Milk Thistle
According to Terry Willard, Ph.D., milk thistle can regenerate and protect liver cells. The active constituent of milk thistle is silymarin, which can help to regulate elevated liver enzymes. Milk thistle may help to treat hepatitis and liver cirrhosis and prevent gallstone formation. Dr. Willard states that this herb has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antifibrotic and antibacterial properties. You can take milk thistle as a dried herb, in capsules, tablets or liquid extract form. Consult with your health care provider prior to using milk thistle.
Artichoke Leaf
The artichoke is native to the Mediterranean and was a delicacy in Greek and Roman times. According to Amelia Hirota, an acupuncturist and Chinese herbalist, artichoke leaf can improve your liver's elimination functions. Acids in artichoke leaves may help to stimulate bile production, which can help to transport toxins away from your liver and into your intestines to be excreted. Bile can also help with fat and cholesterol breakdown, as well as your body's absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. You can take artichoke leaf as a dried herb or liquid tincture. Consult with your health care provider prior to taking artichoke leaf.
Burdock Root
In the Middle Ages, burdock, which resembles a parsnip, was a common dietary vegetable and still is today in Japan and Portugal. According to the Canadian Journal of Health & Nutrition, burdock root contains inulin, which is a complex sugar that may help to protect your mucous membranes and soothe irritation. This herb can help to reduce toxicity, especially from heavy metals. Burdock is also antibacterial and antifungal and can help stimulate liver bile production and urine production so toxins are readily flushed out of your system. You can cook down burdock root and drink the resulting liquid as a tea. Consult with your health care provider prior to using burdock root.
References
- "The Townsend Letter: The Liver Cleanse and Gallbladder Flush: Separating Fact from Fiction;" Jason Barker, N.D.; 2007
- BDIMC: Dandelion
- "Natural Health: A New Leaf;" Amy Paturel; 2007
- "Alive: Canadian Journal of Health & Nutrition;" Milk Thistle, More Than a Great Liver Herb;" Terry Willard, Cl.H., Ph.D.; 2009
- "Alive: Canadian Journal of Health & Nutrition: Beneficial Burdock, A Worldy Wise Herb;" Bev Maya; 2007
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