Liver Support, Tonics, & Detox
Liver Disease has become a Global Concern
According to the Journal of Hepatology from August 2023, "Liver disease accounts for over two million deaths annually (cirrhosis, viral hepatitis, and liver cancer) and accounts for 4% of all deaths worldwide (1 out of every 25 deaths); 1 out of 3 liver-related deaths occur among females. Approximately two-thirds of liver-related deaths occur in men. Currently, liver disease is the eleventh-leading cause of death, but liver deaths may be underestimated."
"Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) affects a quarter of the global adult population and is the second-leading cause of end-stage liver disease and liver transplantation in Europe and America." (EASL)
If caught early, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease can be reversed through dietary changes, regular exercise, weight loss, blood sugar management, and herbal support.
Just like our heart, the liver is crucial for existence. Your liver filters toxins, chemicals and digestive byproducts from the blood and performs vital functions like storing vitamins and minerals, regulating hormones and the immune response, helps to clot our blood, and produces digestive enzymes. It's also the only organ in the human body that can regrow after being damaged or partially removed.
Fatty liver disease reversal primarily involves lifestyle and dietary changes aimed at reducing liver fat and inflammation. Adopting a balanced, nutrient-rich diet that limits refined sugars, processed foods, and unhealthy fats is crucial. Regular physical activity, such as aerobic exercise and resistance training, helps reduce liver fat and improves overall metabolic health. Achieving gradual, sustained weight loss, typically around 7-10% of body weight, can significantly decrease liver fat accumulation. Additionally, managing conditions like insulin resistance and maintaining blood sugar levels within a healthy range play a vital role. Herbal supplements such as milk thistle and turmeric may offer supportive benefits, though they should complement, not replace, medical advice and conventional treatments. Early intervention and consistent lifestyle modifications are essential for effectively reversing fatty liver disease.
Here are a few herbs and minerals known for their liver-supporting, repairing, detoxifying, and protective properties:
1. Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum) - contains a compound called silymarin, which protects liver cells from toxic substances and supports liver regeneration.
2. Dandelion Root (Taraxacum officinale) - Promotes bile production, aiding in liver detoxification.
3. Turmeric (Curcuma longa) - Contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects on the liver.
4. Burdock Root (Arctium lappa) - Supports liver detoxification and helps eliminate toxins from the blood.
5. Artichoke Leaf (Cynara scolymus) - Stimulates bile flow and protects liver tissue.
6. Schisandra Berry (Schisandra chinensis) - Enhances liver function and helps protect against toxin-induced damage.
7. Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) - Has hepatoprotective effects, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.
8. Chicory Root (Cichorium intybus) - Aids digestion and supports liver detoxification.
9. Yellow Dock (Rumex crispus) - Promotes bile production and helps cleanse the liver.
10. Ginger (Zingiber officinale) - Improves digestion and has antioxidant properties that benefit liver health.
11. Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum) - Known for its adaptogenic and hepatoprotective properties, helping reduce oxidative stress on the liver.
12. Andrographis (Andrographis paniculata) - Supports liver detoxification and has anti-inflammatory effects.
13. Stingling Nettle (Urtica dioica) - Rich in antioxidants and helps to cleanse the liver.
14. N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) - is a precursor to the antioxidant glutathione, which helps to neutralize cell-damaging free radicals and promotes the liver's ability to filter toxins.
15. Choline - can be found in meat, fish, poultry, dairy, and eggs. It has been shown to reduce lipid buildup by transporting fats out of the liver.
16. Selenium - An essential mineral that supports antioxidant defenses and helps detoxify harmful substances within the liver.
17. Zinc - Helps to protect the liver from oxidative damage and supports enzyme function related to detoxification.
Reversing fatty liver disease may take a few months to several years, depending on various factors such as the condition's severity, lifestyle choices, underlying health issues, consistency in implementing changes, and individual factors like age, genetics, and overall health. Here are some excellent herbal tea blends to support liver health and enhance its function.
Liver Detox Tea Blend
Ingredients:
1 tsp. Milk Thistle Seed (supports regeneration)
1 tsp. Dandelion Root (aids detoxification)
1/2 tsp. Turmeric (reduces inflammation)
1/2 tsp. Ginger Root (enhances digestion)
1 tsp. Peppermint (supports function)
1 tsp. Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice (aids detoxification)
Instructions:
Add the dry herbs to 2 cups of boiling water. Simmer for 10-15 minutes. Strain and add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Drink warm, once or twice a day, for a few weeks.
Cleansing Green Tea Blend:
Ingredients:
1 tsp. Green Tea (supports function)
1 tsp. Nettle leaf (aids detoxification)
1/2 tsp. Lemon Balm (reduces inflammation)
1 slice Ginger Root (enhances digestion)
1 tsp. Fresh Lemon Juice (aids detoxification)
Instructions:
Steep green tea, nettle, lemon balm, and ginger in 2 cups of hot water for 5-7 minutes. Strain and add lemon juice. Drink 1-2 cups of tea daily for a few weeks.
Spiced Liver Support Tea:
Ingredients:
1 tsp. Burdock Root (detoxifying and purifying)
1 tsp. licorice Root (anti-inflammatory)
1/2 tsp. Cinnamon (promotes insulin sensitivity)
1/4 tsp. Clove (antioxidant-rich)
1 tsp. Raw Honey (optional)
Instructions:
Simmer burdock and licorice roots in 2 cups of water for 15 minutes. Add cinnamon and clove, and simmer for another 5 minutes. Strain and sweeten with honey, if desired. Drink warm once a day, for a few weeks.
Gentle Detox Mint & Chicory Tea:
Ingredients:
1 tsp. Chicory Root (supports liver detox)
1 tsp. Pepper mint (soothes digestion)
1 tsp. Fennel Seeds (promotes bile flow)
1 tsp. Dried Orange Peel (antioxidant and digestive support)
Instructions:
Combine all ingredients and steep in boiling water for 10 minutes. Strain and enjoy warm. This tea is ideal to have after a meal.
HEY, I’M Tammy…
... I am the creator of MHB, a certified master herbalist, a wife and mom of 3, and an aunt to many. My kids call me the witch doctor since I usually have a remedy for whatever ails them or their friends. With the help of my 'little old ladies,' I know a bit more than I should. If we're friends then you'll understand what that means. I look forward to helping you through your life's journey. Let me know how I can help you.
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