Herbs to Improve Liver Function

As the years pass, we may find ourselves neglecting our health and wellness in favor of our busy lifestyles. During this time, our bodies may suffer from various conditions, including liver diseases that impact more than 2 million people worldwide. Thankfully, there is an alternative therapy that can help improve our liver health- herbal.

Here are five herbs that have been shown to enhance liver function throughout the years, each widely used for centuries and available in today’s market.

Milk Thistle (Silymarin)

Milk thistle, also known as Silymarin, is a herb that consists of a group of compounds extracted from milk thistle seeds. It has been used for over 2000 years to treat bile duct and liver conditions, and research shows that it may have liver-protective properties.
Studies have demonstrated that taking a silymarin supplement may help protect against liver disease progression, prolong life in people with alcoholic cirrhosis, and enhance the overall quality of life in those struggling with liver disease. It is considered safe and has not been associated with adverse side effects, even when used at high doses.

Ginseng

Ginseng, a popular herb with powerful anti-inflammatory properties, has antioxidant effects and can help protect against liver damage caused by viruses, toxins, and alcohol. It may improve liver function as well as reduce fatigue and inflammation in individuals suffering from liver disease.
When used separately, ginseng is safe for liver health. However, it can react with certain medications, which can lead to liver injury and other potentially harmful side effects.

Green Tea

Green tea has specific polyphenol compounds like EGCG that have been linked to powerful liver-protective effects. In fact, some studies have found that supplementing green tea extract may help treat individuals with liver disease.
Green tea intake is considered safe for most people, although some suspect that green tea extract products have the potential to cause acute liver injury.

Licorice

Licorice root has been shown to have antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and liver-protective effects, and studies have demonstrated that treatment with licorice extract may benefit those with certain liver conditions.
While licorice supplements may benefit those who struggle with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and protect against alcohol-related liver damage, it’s important to note that some people may be more sensitive to licorice products and chronic use of such products can result in high blood pressure and low blood levels of potassium.

Turmeric

Turmeric and its main active component, curcumin, have been linked to various health benefits, as it possesses powerful anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. Studies have shown that turmeric may help treat NAFLD and reduce inflammation.

Incorporating these herbs into your routine is an excellent natural option to improve the health and well-being of your liver. Including these herbs in your regimen is a preventive measure to ward off liver disease and improve liver function, ensuring you remain healthy and thriving.

Also Read : The Vegan Diet: A Journey Towards Optimal Health and Wellness