Liver Detox Supplements
The liver is involved in thousands of biochemical mechanisms
making it second only to the brain in importance and complexity.
Natural health practitioners are also acutely aware of the
detrimental effects on the liver of modern living, with its
chemicals, excessive fat intake, pesticides, hormones, and
stress. This suggests that we as a culture are in need of liver
support. You should consider liver support supplementation if
you:
* Have a history of a Fatty Liver
* Consume Alcohol
* Consume Tobacco Products
* Have been taking Medications/Drugs
* Are exposed to Environmental Toxins or Chemicals or Second
Hand Smoke
* Have a history of Liver or Gall Bladder Problems
Dandelion
Dandelion root enhances bile flow, thus improving conditions
such as liver congestion, bile duct inflammation, hepatitis,
gallstones, and jaundice. Dandelion increases bile flow by
affecting the liver directly to cause an increase in bile
production and flow to the gallbladder, and exerting a direct
effect on the gallbladder by causing a contraction and release
of stored bile. Dandelion's hepatic tonic effect may be
attributable to the high choline content.
Milk Thistle
Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) has been used since Greco-Roman
times as an herbal remedy for a variety of ailments,
particularly liver problems. Several scientific studies suggest
that active substances in milk thistle (particularly silymarin)
protect the liver from damage caused by viruses, toxins,
alcohol, and certain drugs such as acetaminophen (a common over
the counter medication used for headaches and pain;
acetaminophen, also called paracetamol, can cause liver damage
if taken in large quantities or by people who drink alcohol
regularly.)
Many professional herbalists recommend milk thistle extract for
the prevention and/or treatment of various liver disorders
including viral hepatitis, fatty liver associated with long term
alcohol use, and liver damage from drugs and industrial toxins
such as carbon tetrachloride.