Your liver can regenerate lost tissue. Your liver also performs many important functions, including detoxification, the building of proteins and the synthesis of various substances used in digestion. But this vital organ may develop numerous diseases or conditions. Certain dietary supplements may help aid your liver function, although you should always be judicious in your use of supplements.
About Liver Problems
Although your liver is a strong organ that can withstand considerable stress, it may be affected by numerous health conditions or factors. Liver disease -- a term that describes all diseases affecting your liver -- may cause several common symptoms, including liver enlargement, yellowing of your skin, abdominal swelling and portal hypertension. Your physician may use several tests to help determine the health status of your liver, including blood tests, advanced imaging techniques and a liver biopsy, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Beneficial Supplements
Numerous dietary supplements may help improve or increase your liver function. However, not all supplements used for this health purpose have been thoroughly studied in a laboratory setting. Naturopathic physician William A. Mitchell, Jr. states in "Plant Medicine in Practice" that the following supplements are considered liver stimulants: fringe tree, tetterwort, iris, milk thistle, black radish and rosemary. Selenium and free-form amino acid supplementation may also be beneficial.
A Potent Supplement
The inner bark of the fringe tree may be one of the most potent supplements in aiding your liver function. Naturopathic physician Sharol Tilgner, author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," states that fringe tree may help treat chronic liver disease and improve your liver's function. Tilgner also notes that this dietary supplement may be used in treating gallstones and congestion in your digestive organs. If you are pregnant, you should avoid taking this supplement.
Additional Information
There are many possible causes of liver dysfunction. If you develop symptoms that may be attributable to poor liver function, especially jaundice, report to your family physician as soon as possible for a thorough examination. Your doctor can order any necessary tests that may help diagnose your liver condition. Dietary supplements may be helpful in aiding your liver function, but supplements should only be used under the care and supervision of a competent healthcare professional.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Liver Problems
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Liver Disease
- "Plant Medicine in Practice"; William A. Mitchell Jr., N.D.; 2003
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
