Best Herbs For Liver Repair, Support & Detox

Boswellia's gum resin contains a variety of properties which are effective at reducing inflammation. These same components are antioxidant in nature which are beneficial for liver support.

Studies show that these specific attributes of the herb protect the liver from oxidative stress and stop the overproduction of inflammatory cytokines (important proteins involved in the regulation of the immune system).

Toxicology studies have been done as well on Boswellia, and results indicate that the occurance of rash or upset stomach is extremely rare. This makes this herb valuable when it comes to both liver support and repair. Beware, however, if you take medications because Boswellia has been shown to increase the effects of medications in some instances.

Another highly effective herb against liver damage is milk thistle. It have been used in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and also in combating the effects of environmental toxins on liver cells. The herb contains sylmarin which is an effective antioxidant. This is my go to herb to use in tea when our liver is in need of a boost.

Milk thistle's active component Silymarin protects the body from cytokines involved in creating an inflammatory cascade in the body. Studies such as this show that these specific cytokines were reduced in the liver when milk thistle was administered.

Additionally, these herbal supplements indirectly stop addtional liver problems by decreasing collagen fibers on the liver. 

These collagen fibers occur to fill the space left in the liver from damage due to prior inflammation. These collagen fibers decrease microcirculation leading to further liver injury.

Milk thistle is a great herb that provides detoxification and support for the liver. It has been show to be safe and effective but can possibly interfere with some medications. Consult your doctor.

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Dandelion root is also great when it comes to maintaining a healthy liver. It has been shown to provide the liver with preventative protection and against acute chronic liver failure in studies such as this.

Testing in this study showed reduced levels of oxidative stress and repair of liver tissue in the damaged liver making dandelion root a strong herbal candidate for liver repair.

Additionally dandelion provides herbal support and repair in liver fibrosis (large scarring on the liver where scar tissue forms).

Liver cirrhosis, which interferes with liver function, can occur due to liver fibrosis. Therefore, treatment is important to prevent liver failure.

Lastly, dandelion is a great detox herb. It can clear out the digestive tract with consumption helping the body to clear of free radicals (harmful substances). Dandelion is powerful for both gut health and liver health and is another her we consume frequently.

Burdock root also displays medicinal properties which may be helpful in the treatment of liver damage and liver disease. Chlorogenic acid is a compound present in the herb. 

This compound can protect the hepatic cells in the liver. These cells are important for liver detoxification, metabolic processing of carbohydrates and lipids, and plays a role in clotting. 

This study showed burdock root to help with cell signaling in the liver and lower levels of liver enzymes (which can become problematic when levels are too high).

It also was found to be helpful with the oxidative process. It's full of different antioxidants as well which are very beneficial to the liver.

Another beneficial herb to the liver which is not as well-known to many is the bitter herb yellow dock. It is a great detox herb for liver cleansing.

Also, yellow dock stimulates bile production which helps the body digest foods better. It also increases the production of digestive juices which also promote better digestion. This is important because it will not add an extra burden to the liver.

Yellow dock is used often as a remedy for constipation as well. Better management of waste production in the body is better for the liver because it does not get backed up with excessive toxins from waste matter.

People sensitive to oxolates or prone to kidney stones should consult a doctor before taking yellow dock. Additionally, This root contains iron. Therefore, those with iron issues should consult a doctor prior to using this herb.

Traditional Chinese medicine is known for using astragalus root as well as curcumin for the treatment of liver diseases. The diseases include liver hepatitis, cirrhosis of the liver, and liver cancer.

Firstly, Astragalus root's anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties control oxidative stress levels and reduce inflammation in the body.

Additionally, this herb possesses anti-cancer properties which combat cancerous activity in the liver.

Astragalus is shown to restore albumin in the liver. Albumin is a carrier of enzymes, hormones, and vitamins in the body.

Also, it is beneficial in blood flow and circulation. This herb provides many great attributes for maintaining a healthy functioning liver.

Ginseng has been shown to be beneficial on hepatotoxins (chemical components which cause liver damage). The herb also has shown to have positive effects with liver transplants in regards to liver regeneration.

In a clinical trial, positive results found that Red Korean Ginseng is a viable option for treating fatty liver disease. The herb's anti-inflammatory and antifatigue attributes helped lower biomarkers that contribute to chronic liver disease. 

Additionally, ginger contains ginsenosides, (steroid-like glycosides and saponins), which regulate energy levels and inflammation levels in the gut. It brings the body into a healthy balance.

The liver benefits from the balancing of the microbiome (environment of organisms) of the gut because it does not have the extra toxic load.

This article shows an in-depth effect of the ginsenosides on gut and liver health. Additionally, damage to the liver from oxidative stress is reduced through the use of Ginseng. 

Lastly, Schisandra Berry is another highly beneficial herb used in the prevention and treatment of liver disease. This study shows (view close to the end of the study) a reverse in fatty liver conditions in rats was found after a 5 week protocol of using this herb.

Also, this herb demonstrated the ability to stop lipid degeneration due to free radical stressors. It also clear liver pathways and helps the liver to detox. 

This is significant for those suffering from any liver ailments. Further studies regarding humans are still be done to confirm effects accross the board.

Consuming tea is one way to get in your herbal dosage. The active ingredient or ingredients in teas are more effective the longer you soak the herbs in the hot water. I steep the herbs for approximately 10-15 minutes. 

Dandelion root tea, and milk thistle tea are two teas that are great for this. I often use milk thistle seeds whole, however, you can grind the seeds before using them as well and place in a tea bag or tea kettle ball. For tea enthusiast, there is this electric glass kettle tea infuser.

Getting herbs through liquid form is great because they are often better absorbed into the body. Additionally, you can mix several herbal extracts at a time to allow properties to activate and work more effectively.

Below are great herbal tinctures for the liver. Although these are high-quality and contain certified organic ingredients, seek a health professional's guidance before taking these herbal remedies.

Herb Pharm - Liver Health

Global Healing - Raw Herbal Extract For Liver Health

Some herbs can be used in recipes or sprinkled into foods. For instance, although slightly bitter in taste, some people incorporate milk thistle seeds into yogurts or oats the same as hemp or flax seeds.

Dandelions are another herb used in recipes. Dandelion greens are often readily available in many grocery stores.

I love to take dandelion flowers come spring and coat them with flour and fry them up as a little treat. Of course, be careful to use flowers that have not been treated with pesticides.

Some people prefer to take herbs in capsule or powder form. These are also available in many health food stores.

Looking for a brand that uses high-quality and properly processed herbs is important. Some of these brands include Gaia herbs, Pure Encapsulations, Thorne, or Oregon's Wild Harvest. We are a fan of all of these brands.