Black walnut hull is an ingredient in some liver detoxification formulas. The liver is a vital organ that filters blood and produces essential compounds for a number of systems in the body, such as bile to aid in digestion. Proponents of detoxification say that it boosts liver health. However, science does not support this concept. There is no proof that taking supplements such as black walnut hull has a positive effect on the liver or that detoxifying works to improve its function.
Liver
The liver is a small, but dense, organ that sits in the upper right-hand quadrant of the abdominal cavity. The liver holds 13 percent of the body's blood supply at any given moment, according to an article for Lucile Packard Children's Hospital. Its functions include production of bile and cholesterol, iron storage, conversion of ammonia to urea, and regulation of amino acids. The liver also fights illness by filtering bacteria from the blood. Damage to the liver is almost always critical because it holds such a high volume of blood and plays an important role in body functioning. Telltale symptoms of liver problems include extreme fatigue and jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and eyes.
Black Walnut
Black walnut, also known as American walnut, was a staple item for the American Indian as far back as 2000 B.C., according to website Dr. Christopher's Herbal Legacy. Sap from the tree was an ingredient in meal preparation and was considered a sign of fertile soil. Website The Natural Path states that black walnut helps oxygenate the blood and provides a source of soluble fiber. Some people also believe the nuts will help fight intestinal illnesses and expel parasites. A liquid compound made from black walnut hull, known as liver tincture, is one factor in some liver detoxification formulas.
Significance
Katherine Zeratsky, R.D., L.D., from MayoClinic.com, explains the theory behind detoxification. Proponents believe waste material and toxins build up in the body over time and affect health. Flushing the body via cleansing tonics is meant to clear out these toxins and waste, and different products are designed either to detox the body as a whole or to focus on specific organs, such as the liver and the colon. Some proponents believe liver cleansing is one way to prevent the formation of gallstones.
Critics say that detoxing is not necessary and, in fact, may be dangerous and have side effects for some people. The human body has its own system for removing ingested toxins: The liver and kidneys filter out waste and eliminate it through stool and urine.
Benefits
It is unclear what specific benefits you might get from using black walnut for liver cleansing. AllonHealth.com suggests it will flush gallstones. Baseline of Health Foundation promises that a liver tincture containing black walnut hull will remove toxins, cholesterol, fat, poisons and drug residue. However, no clinical studies back up the claims that black walnut in any form will benefit liver function or heal liver diseases.
Considerations
Discuss any detoxing or cleansing programs with your doctor before you begin them. Some supplements, such as black walnut, may not be appropriate for you. Other ingredients in detox products, such as blach cohosh and mistletoe, may potentially harm your liver, according to MayoClinic.com. Take any liver tincture formula to the doctor's office so he or she can look at the ingredients and give advice. If you feel overly tired, have lost your appetite or have a yellow tint to your skin, see your doctor to check the health of your liver.
