The liver is one of the largest organs in the human body, weighing about four pounds in most adults. It is also the only organ the body that can regenerate itself, according to Dr. James F. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Up to 25 percent of the liver can be removed, and the remainder will grow new liver cells. While the liver has the potential for regeneration, it can still be damaged by disease, toxins and other factors. Some herbalists believe that ginger can provide several important benefits for the liver, including better assimilation of other herbs, decrease in liver tumors and protection from cellular damage. Herbal therapy should not replace traditional medical treatment. Check with your doctor before using ginger to treat any liver condition.
Herb Assimilation
Ginger may benefit the liver and other organs of the body by helping the liver assimilate compounds found in other herbs. According to Kathi Keville, author of "Herbs for Health and Healing," the liver breaks down healing compounds found in herbs, decreasing their effectiveness. Ginger may prevent these compounds from being destroyed, allowing them to enter the bloodstream unchanged and remain in the body for a longer period of time. This may increase the ability of milk thistle, alfalfa and other herbs to promote regrowth of healthy liver cells.
Tumors
According to Michael Castleman, author of "The Healing Herbs," ginger contains compounds that may encourage the shrinkage of tumors in the liver. However, the tumor-fighting power of ginger has only been tested on animals. Currently, there is insufficient evidence to show that ginger has the same effect on humans.
Liver Protection
According to James A. Duke, author of "The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook," ginger contains eight different compounds that protect the liver. These compounds may help prevent toxins such as alcohol, nicotine and environmental pollutants from damaging and scarring the tissues of the liver. Ginger may also be effective for protecting the liver against glucose spikes associated with diabetes.
References
- "Herbs for Health and Healing"; Kathi Keville; 1998
- "The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook"; James A. Duke; 2002
- "The Healing Herbs"; Michael Castleman; 1991
