Primary biliary cirrhosis is a condition characterized by inflammation of bile ducts, which carry bile from your liver to your intestines. It can inhibit bile flow, causing it to back up in your liver -- this can cause damage and scarring of liver tissues and may lead to liver cirrhosis. Although the cause of primary biliary cirrhosis is not known, autoimmune diseases such as hypothyroidism and arthritis may contribute to this condition, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC. Supplements cannot cure this condition, but they may reduce inflammation and protect your liver from damage. Talk to your doctor before taking any supplement to treat primary biliary cirrhosis.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E promotes normal immune system function, which may help prevent white blood cells from mistakenly attacking the cells of your bile ducts. It is also an antioxidant vitamin, explains the UMMC -- it may prevent lipids and free radicals in your body from damaging your bile ducts. Vitamin E also improves blood circulation, which may aid in the delivery of proteins for bile duct cellular repair.
Vitamin A
Similar to vitamin E, vitamin A is an antioxidant and immune system enhancer. It may prevent bacteria, virus cells and free radicals from causing damage to your bile ducts. Vitamin A is also essential for cellular repair -- it aids in the function of proteins, which are building blocks for healthy cells, according to Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Check with your physician if you plan to take vitamin A supplements. High doses, particularly more than 10,000 IU per day, may be toxic to your liver.
Turmeric
Turmeric is an herb that is commonly used to lend an earthy flavor to Asian and Indian dishes. However, this herb may also offer medicinal benefits. Ancient Ayurvedic healers in India used turmeric to treat jaundice and poor liver function. This herb contains a chemical compound called curcumin, which may stimulate bile flow, according to Michael Castleman, author of "The New Healing Herbs." Curcumin is an anti-inflammatory chemical that may reduce swelling of your bile ducts. It may also protect the tissues of your liver against damage caused by bile backup. Consult your physician before taking turmeric supplements to address primary biliary cirrhosis -- it may reduce your body's production of platelets necessary for blood clotting.
Garlic
Garlic is known in the United States as an immune system enhancing herb -- it may help ward off colds and flu. Supplements containing this herb may also help reduce the effects of primary biliary cirrhosis. Allicin, the primary chemical compound in garlic, may offer anti-inflammatory benefits, according to Balch. It may help increase passage through your bile ducts, preventing bile from backing up into your liver. Allicin may also help prevent bacteria from damaging the cells of your bile ducts. Talk to your physician before treating primary biliary cirrhosis with garlic supplements. Similar to turmeric, garlic may interfere with blood platelet production.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Primary Biliary Cirrhosis
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C. et al.; 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Vitamin E
- "The New Healing Herbs"; Michael Castleman; 2010
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