Medicinal plants have been used for centuries as liver tonics.
With so many chemicals, additives and pollutants now found in your air, water and foods, it is more important than ever before in history to look after the health of your liver. The liver is responsible for detoxifying thousands of chemicals from our bodies every single day, and if it is unable to function optimally, toxins begin to build up in our tissues. Ancient plants from around the world are now being found by medical science to be hepatoprotective through defending our liver tissues against chemical, oxidative and pathogenic damage.
Milk Thistle
Milk thistle seeds heal, protect and stimulate the liver.
The seeds of Silybum marianum, common name milk thistle, are used as a folk remedy for liver health in Western countries. In a study published in "The Indian Journal of Medical Research" in 2006, researchers found that Silybum contained a whole range of natural chemicals that played a role in protecting the liver from chemical damage. Taking extracts of Silybum helps to protect liver tissues from free radicals, inflammation, infection and stimulates rejuvenation of liver cells.
Andrographis paniculata
Andrographis is one of the most popular Ayurvedic herbs used in Western countries.
Andrographis is a traditional Ayurvedic plant used to treat various complaints such as nausea, poor digestion and viral infection. Kerry Bone, author of "Clinical Applications of Ayurvedic and Chinese Herbs," states that Andrographis is a useful hepatoprotective herb and possesses properties similar to that of Silybum marianum. Andrographis is best taken as a liquid tincture or herbal tea, as the intense bitter flavor plays a role in the medicinal actions of the plant.
Globe Artichoke
Globe artichoke helps to stimulate digestion, protect and heal the liver and reduce constipation.
Cynara scolymus is also known as globe artichoke, a popular culinary plant that is also used for medicinal purposes. In a study published in "Planta Medica" in 2002, researchers found extracts of Cynara leaves had a significant effect on preventing chemical damage to liver cells and helped to prevent blockages occurring within the bile ducts of the liver. While the leaves are not considered edible, they can be made into teas, tinctures and dried extracts so as to gain the benefits of the herb.
Green Tea
Green tea protects the liver, the heart, the immune system and dental health.
Green tea is a famous Asian tea known for its antioxidant, anticancer and cardioprotective properties. According to recent medical research, the same catechins that give green tea its antioxidant qualities are also active in protecting the liver. In a study published in "Chemico-Biological Interactactions" in 2009, researchers reported that green tea plays an important role in preventing abnormalities and diseases of the liver in animals. By drinking green tea every day, humans can expect these same medicinal benefits for their own livers.
Tags: study published, chemical damage, liver cells, liver tissues, protecting liver, researchers found