Some people call the liver the antipollution organ because it is in charge of removing toxins from the bloodstream. According to the American Medical Association, your liver is the largest organ that dwells within your body, and is one of the most vital organs. The liver is responsible for a variety of jobs. Aside from filtering toxins and poisons, it helps change food to energy and manufactures bile. The liver incurs its fair share of abuse from contaminants like second-hand smoke, air pollution, auto exhaust, household cleaners, medications and food additives. Fortunately, a variety of herbs are beneficial for liver health.
Milk Thistle
Milk thistle is key to liver health, according to Christopher Hobbs, author of "Milk Thistle: The Liver Herb." Milk thistle can help protect liver cells by blocking the absorption of certain toxins and aiding in removing them from the liver. Milk thistle is also a strong antioxidant and helps protect the body from free radicals as well as other toxins.
Dandelion Root
Dandelion root is often called the liver tonic. According to the National Institute of Health, people with hepatitis show improvement after taking herbals with dandelion root in them. Dandelion root detoxifies and nourishes the liver, and dandelion tea can help cleanse and stimulate the liver. The root also contains vitamins A, B, C, D, potassium, zinc and iron, all of which are healthy for the liver.
Artichoke Leaves
Dr. Maoshing Ni, an alternative health specialist and author, states that artichoke leaves can help the regeneration of the liver as well as bile flow. Artichoke leaves contain a flavonoid called silymarin, which is a strong antioxidant and powerful liver protector.
Turmeric
Turmeric has circumin in it and is a member of the ginger family. This herb is considered to be very healthy for the liver. Chinese medicine uses this herb often for liver health because it can increase bile production as well as the manufacturing of certain enzymes that digest sugar and fat. Turmeric can be taken in a supplement or added as a spice to your foods.
References
- Liver Detox
- The Yoga of Herbs; David Frawley; 1986
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