The liver is the largest gland in the human body, according to certified nutritional consultant Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." The primary function of this organ is to supply bile to your intestines, which aids in the digestion of foods. It helps your digestive tract absorb fat-soluble vitamins such as A, K, D and E. The liver also detoxifies ammonia, alcohol and other toxins so they can be removed from your body. Certain herbs may help remove toxins that accumulate in your liver. Check with your doctor before taking any herb to detoxify your liver.
Milk Thistle
Milk thistle is an herb native to the Mediterranean region of Europe; however, it now also grows in parts of Australia and California. Silymarin, the primary chemical compound of milk thistle, may aid your liver's natural detoxification process. It may protect the tissues of your liver against damage caused by accumulated toxins, according to Balch. It may also promote the repair of liver cells. Check with your doctor before taking milk thistle -- this herb may have a laxative effect.
Turmeric
Turmeric is commonly used to lend a yellow hue and earthy, slightly spicy taste to Asian and Indian dishes. The roots of this herb may also offer medicinal benefits. Turmeric root may increase output from the liver, allowing toxins to flow to your kidneys and bile to flow to your intestines. Turmeric contains a chemical called curcumin, which may also shield your liver tissues against toxic damage and prevent liver scarring, according to medical journalist Michael Castleman, author of "The New Healing Herbs." Consult your doctor before using turmeric as part of a liver detox herbal regimen. Curcumin may interfere with blood clotting.
Red Clover
Europeans in the Middle Ages believed that wearing red clover or placing it in your house could ward off evil. However, Chinese physicians knew red clover as a medicinal herb -- they used it to treat chest and nasal congestion caused by the common cold. This herb may help cleanse your bloodstream of toxins, allowing your liver to naturally detoxify, according to Balch. Talk to your physician if you plan to take red clover. This herb may cause blood vessel inflammation and increase your risk of developing internal blood clots.
Burdock
Ancient Chinese healers used the roots of the burdock plant as a treatment for the flu and the common cold. European herbalists in the 14th century believed that it could cure leprosy. Like red clover, burdock may offer blood detoxification benefits, according to Balch. This may reduce the workload on your liver, allowing it to gradually flush out accumulated toxins. Contact your doctor before taking burdock -- it may occasionally cause diarrhea.
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C. et al.; 2010
- "The New Healing Herbs"; Michael Castleman; 2010
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