Many proponents of herbal medicine suggest using herbs to boost the health of the liver, which is responsible for removing toxins from the body. In fact, some research suggests that certain herbs may help fight liver diseases such as cirrhosis (scarring of the liver) and infections such as hepatitis B and hepatitis C (which causes inflammation of the liver). It is shown that there is.
Here are some herbs that can be a natural way to boost liver health.
milk thistle
According to a report published in 2001, milk thistle may be beneficial for patients with liver cirrhosis.Researchers analyzing five clinical trials (involving a total of 602 patients with cirrhosis) determined that treatment with milk thistle can lead to a significant reduction in liver-related mortality.
A 2005 research review considered several clinical trials testing milk thistle in the treatment of hepatitis B and C.Although the authors found no evidence that milk thistle helps eliminate any type of hepatitis virus, they found that milk thistle may help reduce inflammation associated with hepatitis C and protect liver cells from damage. There are also studies that suggest that.
turmeric
Preliminary research shows that turmeric may help treat hepatitis B and C. For example, in his 2009 study on liver cells, scientists found that turmeric extract helped stop the hepatitis B virus from replicating.
Meanwhile, a test tube study published in 2010 demonstrated that turmeric extract may help inhibit the replication of the hepatitis C virus.
Burdock
According to an animal study published in 2000, burdock root (an herb often used as a natural detox therapy) may help protect liver cells from damage caused by acetaminophen.In experiments on mice, scientists found that the antioxidants found in burdock root may reduce the harmful effects of toxic substances produced by the metabolism of acetaminophen.
Other animal-based research suggests that burdock root may also help protect the liver from damage caused by alcohol consumption.
Use of herbs for liver diseases
Neither turmeric nor burdock can be recommended for the treatment of any type of liver disease at this time due to the lack of clinical studies to support their use. Scientific support for milk thistle’s liver-protective effects is also limited, so it is premature to recommend this herb as a primary treatment for liver problems.
To improve daily liver health, the American Liver Foundation recommends eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol intake, controlling cholesterol, and washing your hands frequently (to prevent infections). ) is encouraged.
Always remember that animal research results are not automatically applicable to humans. If you are considering using herbs for liver health, be sure to consult your doctor before beginning treatment.
FAQ
-
What are the signs of liver damage?Symptoms of liver damage include nausea and vomiting, feeling tired and weak, loss of appetite, weight loss without effort, and mild pain or discomfort in the upper right quadrant.
-
What herbs can help improve liver health?Milk thistle, turmeric, and burdock are three supplements commonly used to improve liver health. Of the three, milk thistle has the most evidence to support liver health benefits.
-
What foods are good for liver repair?Foods that can help improve liver health include fiber-rich fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Aim for a healthy, balanced diet that includes lean protein, low-fat dairy products, and unsaturated fats.
-
What foods and drinks are bad for your liver?Foods to avoid if you have liver damage include those high in fat, sugar, and salt. Alcohol can also contribute to liver damage. Avoid alcohol or limit it to one drink a day for women and two drinks a day for men.