What are the risks of using herbal supplements for liver health? Discover the surprising liver dangers of these “all-natural” products and learn how to keep your liver safe.

The Potential Risks of Herbal Supplements for Liver Health

Herbal and dietary supplements, often marketed as “natural” remedies, can pose serious risks to liver health. Hepatologist Tatyana Kushner, MD, warns that these products “can definitively lead to liver injury and even liver failure” – a condition known as “herb-induced liver injury.” The impact can range from acute, self-resolving issues to chronic liver disease requiring a liver transplant.

The liver is responsible for breaking down medications and producing bile, which is crucial for digestion. Yet many people turn to herbal supplements, believing them to be a safer alternative. However, the reality is that these products are largely unregulated in the United States, and their effects on the liver are often unknown.

Why Are Herbal Supplements Gaining Popularity?

One possible reason for the rise in herb-related liver injuries is increased awareness and better tracking of these cases. According to a report by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), herbal dietary supplements accounted for about 9% of liver injury cases from 2004 to 2008, and that rate increased to more than 16% by 2012.

The popularity of herbal supplements may also be due to the general public’s belief that they are a safe and “natural” way to improve health. However, the National Institutes of Health’s National Center for Complementary and Integrative Medicine cautions that these products are not necessarily safe or effective.

The Dangers of Green Tea Extract

One herbal supplement that has received a lot of attention is green tea extract, which is often touted for its purported benefits such as energy boosting and weight loss. However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved green tea extract for any specific medical condition, nor does it regulate the product for safety and efficacy.

In fact, the Cleveland Clinic advises that it is the high doses of green tea extract usually found in weight-loss supplements that have the potential to cause liver damage. LiverTox, a publication by the NIDDK, has reported that ingesting large amounts of green tea extract has been linked to acute liver injury, liver failure, the need for a liver transplant, and even death.

How the Liver Processes Toxins

The liver plays a crucial role in breaking down and eliminating toxins from the body. As gastroenterologist Dina Halegoua–De Marzio, MD, explains, “It does this through a complex metabolic process by taking the medications we ingest and breaking them down into nontoxic components and then flushing them out of the body.” However, certain substances can form toxic metabolites that can damage liver cells, leading to scarring, cirrhosis, and even liver failure.

Herbal Supplements and Unregulated Ingredients

According to the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, herbal supplements are largely unregulated in the United States. This means that the purity and safety of these products are often unknown, which can put the liver at risk.

Dina Halegoua–De Marzio, MD, cautions that the effects of herbal supplements on the liver are not well understood, stating, “It’s unknown how pure the substances may be — and what effects they may have on the liver.”

Safer Alternatives to Herbal Supplements

Instead of turning to herbal remedies, the Cleveland Clinic advises making lifestyle changes to improve liver health, such as maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and limiting alcohol consumption. These natural approaches can help support liver function without the risk of herb-induced liver injury.

When it comes to your liver, it’s important to be cautious about “natural” or “all-natural” remedies. While they may seem like a safer alternative, the reality is that herbal supplements can pose serious risks to this vital organ. By understanding the potential dangers and choosing safer, evidence-based approaches, you can keep your liver healthy and functioning at its best.

Toxic, Not Healthy: Surprising Liver Dangers of Herbal Products

If you have hepatitis C, you may have heard about alternative and complementary therapies that promise to restore your liver health. It’s important to know that some of these remedies, including “all-natural” herbal products, may do more harm than good.

“Herbal teas and supplements can definitively lead to liver injury and even liver failure — we call this herb-induced liver injury,” says Tatyana Kushner, MD, a hepatologist and an assistant professor in the division of liver diseases at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City. “Depending on the herb, the impact can be acute — and self-resolve — or can develop into chronic liver disease and liver failure, which would necessitate a liver transplant,” Dr. Kushner says.

You don’t want to mess with your liver. As the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine notes, the liver is responsible for breaking down medications, and producing bile, which carries away waste and is crucial for digestion.

Yet many people do: Herb-induced liver injury, which is a form of liver disease, is a growing problem. “I have noticed a rise in herb-related injuries in my practice,” says Kushner. One possible reason for the uptick is more awareness of the phenomenon and better methods of tracking cases, Kushner says.

While the numbers are still low, the Drug Induced Liver Injury Network found that herbal dietary supplements accounted for about 9 percent of cases from 2004 to 2008, and that rate increased to more than 16 percent by 2012, according to a report published in April 2018 by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK).

The numbers may also be going up because herbal supplements are gaining popularity among the general public. According to a review published in June 2018 in the journal Toxics, use of herbal supplements, natural medicines, and “natural products” has been on the rise in the past few decades. People turn to these products, the NIH News in Health notes, to make sure they’re getting enough nutrients or to improve their health — but they’re often not necessary.

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Here’s what you need to know about these herbal products so you can keep your liver safe and working optimally.

Herbal Products and Liver Toxins

One of the major roles of the liver is to act as a filter for toxins, says Dina Halegoua–De Marzio, MD, an assistant professor of gastroenterology and the director of the fatty liver center at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia. “It does this through a complex metabolic process by taking the medications we ingest and breaking them down into nontoxic components and then flushing them out of the body,” she explains.

Medications and supplements can damage the liver while it’s doing its work. Certain substances can form toxic metabolites that can damage liver cells, and as a result, the liver can become so damaged that it can’t function, Dr. Halegoua–De Marzio says. According to the Mayo Clinic, this damage, which causes scarring — called cirrhosis — can lead to liver failure and can even be life-threatening.

According to the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, herbal supplements are largely unregulated in the United States. Therefore, it’s unknown how pure the substances may be — and what effects they may have on the liver, Halegoua–De Marzio says.

RELATED: 7 Popular Supplements With Hidden Dangers

Why Use of Herbal Remedies May Be on the Rise — and Whether They’re Helpful

Green tea extract in particular is receiving a lot of buzz these days. As the Cleveland Clinic notes, proponents claim it provides an all-natural energy boost and aids weight loss, and yet research on these proposed benefits is lacking. Furthermore, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved green tea extract for any specific medical condition, nor does it regulate the product for safety and efficacy, according to LiverTox, a publication produced by the NIDDK. If you love green tea, rest easy: Drinking green tea generally isn’t risky, Halegoua–De Marzio says. It’s the high doses of green tea extract usually found in weight-loss supplements that have the potential to do damage.

Instead of turning to extracts and similar herbal remedies, the Cleveland Clinic advises making lifestyle changes to avoid the risk of complications. Green tea extract specifically can be especially threatening to the liver — LiverTox reported in November 2020 that ingesting large amounts of green tea extract has been implicated in acute liver injury, liver failure, the need for a liver transplant, and even death.

Still, that isn’t stopping Americans from gravitating to natural remedies. According to the National Institutes of Health’s National Center for Complementary and Integrative Medicine, “natural” doesn’t necessarily make a product safer or better, but there is still a personal preference for natural products, in part because of the belief, the agency says, that nature is pure and superior to human manufacture. The NIH cautions, though, that natural remedies, like kava for anxiety, for example, can come with serious side effects and safety concerns, including severe liver damage. A review published in November 2018 in Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice showed that the risks are especially high with long-term and poor-quality formulations. This makes ensuring you’re using a high-quality product okayed by your healthcare team all the more important.

RELATED: A Complete Guide to Cirrhosis, or Liver Damage

7 Tips to Keep Your Liver Healthy

Because of the potential risks, it’s important to take precautions if you decide to use an herbal product. Keep these tips in mind.

1. Ask Your Doctor About an Herbal Product of Interest Before Taking It

“People should talk about herbal remedies with their doctor prior to starting, particularly if they are not familiar with the ingredients of the herbal remedy,” says Kushner. And if you’re already using something? It’s crucial to give your doctor a full list of what you’re taking, including herbal teas or supplements. Knowing what you’re taking will help your doctor recognize side effects. If your primary care doctor or specialist can’t provide the answers you’re seeking, seek a second opinion from an integrative medicine board-certified doctor or trained specialist.

2

. Beware of the Big Liver Offenders

When it comes to supplements, the simpler, the better. “If you find a bottle with a long list of italicized words in the ingredient list naming the multiple herbs that are components in the particular supplement, I would steer clear,” says Kushner.

Green tea extract, anabolic steroids, and multi-ingredient nutritional supplements are among the top products that can cause liver injury, according to a review published in January 2017 in the journal Hepatology. “It is important to know that many different types of herbs can cause liver injury in an unpredictable way — for example, Herbalife and other weight loss herbal supplements have caused liver injury in many people,” says Kushner. A review published in LiverTox in April 2018 also highlights reports of acute liver injury by those taking Herbalife products, but the specific ingredients that caused the damage are still unknown.

Certain herbs used in traditional Chinese medicine have also been found to pose some risks. Research published in Annals of Hepatology in 2015 identified 28 traditional Chinese medicine herbs and herbal mixtures that have been reported to cause liver injury.

Meanwhile, comfrey contains several pyrrolizidine alkaloids that may cause liver injury when taken orally, according to an October 2017 report in LiverTox. Chaparral, kava, and skullcap can also damage your liver, they report.

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3. Investigate the Ingredients List of an Herbal Remedy Before Trying It

Before buying, read the back of the bottle to see what’s actually inside the supplement. Some herbal products, such as milk thistle, for example, are known to be safe and could even play a role in treating certain liver conditions, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Still, you’ll want to talk to your doctor before taking any supplement product. Also, keep an eye out for additional ingredients: Green tea extract, for example, is added to many herbal products. And you’ll want to avoid big claims on the label. In some cases, supplements don’t list the ingredients at all but make claims that they will flush your liver. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, liver cleanse supplements aren’t recommended — not only is there no evidence showing they actually work, but they can actually cause damage to the liver, they say.

4. Check the LiverTox Website for Background Information on Remedies

Run by the NIDDK, the LiverTox website contains valuable information on hundreds of drugs that have been found to damage the liver, including herbal products. If you’re looking to buy a new supplement (or if you already have a supplement in your medicine cabinet), check its ingredients on this regularly updated site to see if it can damage your liver. You’ll also, of course, want to run it by your doctor before you start continue on a supplement.

RELATED: What You Need to Know Before Trying a Detox Cleanse

5. Turn to Independent Labs That Certify Quality Supplements

As mentioned, the FDA doesn’t regulate herbal remedies. That means labels may mislead consumers like you. For example, black cohosh is often taken for menopause symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats, notes the National Institutes of Health. But products labeled as black cohosh have been linked to more than 50 cases of liver injury, according to LiverTox, and some cases have been so severe that they resulted in liver transplants and even death. In several of those cases, though, scientists found herbs from the Chinese actaea species in the supplement rather than black cohosh, and this mislabeling may have been the culprit, LiverTox notes.

In addition, herbal supplements can contain mystery pharmaceutical ingredients. For example, a study published in October 2018 in JAMA Network Open found unapproved pharmaceutical ingredients in a whopping 776 dietary supplements, which were often marketed as weight loss, sexual enhancement, or muscle-building products.

If your healthcare team green-lights taking a certain supplement, work with them to choose a brand that has been tested by an individual lab, such as ConsumerLab, NSF International, or U.S. Pharmacopeia, Harvard Health Publishing notes. These companies independently certify supplements for dosage accuracy and safety.

6. Work With Your Doctor to Identify Potential Drug Contraindications

Another reason to report any supplements you’re taking to your doctor: They could be working against your prescription medications. For example, anyone taking the newer hepatitis C medications would be wise to avoid St. John’s wort, because past research showed this herbal remedy may worsen liver function in people on hepatitis C medications, and could even result in hospitalization. And according to a review published July 2017 in American Family Physician, almost 25 percent of U.S. adults say they are taking a prescription medication while also taking a dietary supplement. The authors recommend that people on any pharmacological therapy avoid St. John’s wort.

Also, if you already have a liver issue, taking potentially risky supplements could make matters much worse. “Generally speaking, if you have a liver disease that is advanced — be it from hepatitis C or other causes — a superimposed liver injury from herbs can lead to significant worsening,” says Kushner. So as a reminder: “People should talk about herbal remedies with their doctor prior to starting, particularly if they are not familiar with the components of the herbal remedy,” she says. If you are managing a liver condition or are concerned about risks specific to the liver, consult a hepatologist.

RELATED: 5 Complementary and Alternative Therapies for Hepatitis C

7. Limit the Number of Herbal Products You Take

Beyond toxicity, talk to your healthcare team to avoid potential interactions between any herbal products or supplements with each other. In general, though, less or none may be more.

Not to mention, supplements aren’t a substitute for a healthy diet or lifestyle, nor are they a replacement for a treatment plan your healthcare team has recommended, as Harvard Health Publishing points out. Instead, you might consider these remedies as a possible complement to more conventional approaches.

So rather than taking a supplement you’re not sure about, talk with your doctor or integrative medicine trained provider, learn all you can about it, and improve your health by making other lifestyle changes, like exercising and sleeping more, and eating healthier.

Additional reporting by Marie Suszynski.

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The 10 Best Herbs for Liver Health: Benefits and Precautions

Many people around the world live with conditions that affect the liver, including cirrhosis, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), alcoholic liver disease, liver cancer, liver failure, and hepatitis (1).

Every year, liver disease accounts for nearly 2 million deaths worldwide (2, 3).

Risk factors for liver disease include heavy alcohol intake, high blood sugar levels, obesity, high blood pressure, viruses, elevated triglyceride and cholesterol levels, and more (4, 5).

Liver disease is treated in a number of ways, including medication, nutritional therapy, immunotherapy, lifestyle change, surgical resection, and even liver transplant in end stage liver disease (6, 7, 8, 9).

In addition to standard treatments, many people turn to alternative therapies, including herbal supplements, in hopes of improving and protecting their liver health. In fact, around 65% of people in the United States and Europe with liver diseases take herbal supplements (10).

Here are the 10 best herbs that have been shown to improve liver health.

An important note

Many herbs, including some on this list, may be unsafe for those with certain liver conditions.

Some herbs have been connected to liver damage and other complications, which is why it’s critical to check with your healthcare provider before adding any herbal supplements, including the ones on this list, to your diet.

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Silymarin, often called milk thistle, consists of a group of compounds extracted from milk thistle (Silybum marianum) seeds, including silybin, silychristin, and silydianin (10).

Milk thistle has been used for over 2,000 years to treat bile duct and liver conditions, and research shows that it may have liver-protective properties (11).

It has been suggested that silymarin has strong antioxidant effects and may help promote liver cell regeneration, reduce inflammation, and benefit those with liver disease. However, results from human studies have been mixed (12).

For example, some studies have shown that taking a silymarin supplement may help protect against liver disease progression, prolong life in people with alcoholic cirrhosis, and enhance overall quality of life in people with liver disease (13, 14, 15, 16).

Yet, other studies indicate that silymarin is no more effective than placebo treatments, highlighting the need for additional research (13, 17, 18, 19).

Regardless, silymarin is considered safe and has not been associated with adverse side effects, even when used at high doses (19).

Summary

Silymarin may benefit people with certain liver conditions, including alcoholic cirrhosis. Still, more research is needed.

Ginseng is a popular herbal supplement known for its powerful anti-inflammatory properties (20).

A number of test-tube and animal studies have demonstrated that ginseng has antioxidant effects and may help protect against liver injury caused by viruses, toxins, and alcohol. Plus, it may boost liver cell regeneration after surgery (21).

What’s more, some human studies have shown that ginseng treatment may improve liver function and reduce fatigue and inflammation in people with liver disease and liver dysfunction (22, 23, 24).

For example, a 2020 study in 51 men with elevated levels of alanine transaminase (ALT), a marker for liver damage, found that those who took 3 grams of ginseng extract per day for 12 weeks experienced significant reductions in ALT, compared with a placebo group (24).

Levels of gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), another marker for liver damage, were also reduced significantly (24).

Although these results are promising, more research investigating the effects of ginseng on liver health is needed.

When used on its own, ginseng is thought to be relatively safe for liver health. However, ginseng has the potential to react with medications, which can lead to liver injury and other potentially dangerous side effects (25, 26, 27).

Summary

Ginseng may help protect against liver damage and is generally considered safe. Yet, it has the potential to react with certain medications, which can lead to dangerous side effects.

Although it isn’t technically an herb, green tea and its main polyphenol compound epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) are often included in literature reviews focusing on herbal remedies for liver conditions (28).

Some studies have found that supplementing with green tea extract may help treat those with liver disease.

A study in 80 people with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) found that supplementing with 500 mg of green tea extract per day for 90 days significantly reduced the liver damage markers ALT and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (29).

Although the placebo group also noticed a reduction in AST and ALT levels, they were not significant (29).

Another 12-week study in 80 people with NAFLD observed that those who took 500 mg of green tea extract daily experienced significant improvements in AST, ALT, and inflammatory markers, compared with a placebo. The treatment also reduced fatty changes in the liver (30).

Green tea intake has likewise been shown to protect against various liver conditions, including liver cancer, hepatitis, cirrhosis, fatty liver (hepatic steatosis), and chronic liver disease (31).

While drinking green tea is considered safe for most people, in rare cases, green tea extract supplements have been linked to acute liver injury (32).

Summary

Green tea and green tea extract have been linked to powerful liver-protective effects. Keep in mind that green tea extract has been associated with liver injury in rare cases.

Although chewy candy often comes to mind when thinking of licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), it’s really an herb with powerful medicinal properties (33).

Licorice root has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and liver-protective effects in scientific studies (33).

The main active component in licorice root is the saponin compound glycyrrhizin, which is commonly used in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine to treat many ailments, including liver disease (33).

Some studies have demonstrated that treatment with licorice extract may benefit those with certain liver conditions.

A study in 66 people with fatty liver disease found that supplementing with 2 grams of licorice root extract per day for 2 months significantly reduced ALT and AST, compared with a placebo treatment (34).

In another small study, 6 healthy people took a glycyrrhizin product before drinking vodka every night for 12 days, and 6 people only drank vodka nightly for 12 days.

In the vodka-only group, liver damage markers, including ALT, AST, and GGT, significantly increased. In the glycyrrhizin group, these markers did not significantly increase, suggesting that glycyrrhizin may help protect against alcohol-related liver damage (35).

Although these findings are promising, more research is needed.

What’s more, some people are more sensitive to licorice, and the chronic use of licorice products can result in dangerous side effects, including high blood pressure and low blood levels of potassium (36).

Summary

Licorice supplements may benefit those with NAFLD and protect against alcohol-related liver damage. It’s important to note that certain people may be more sensitive to licorice supplements, as well as that they can lead to adverse side effects.

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Turmeric and its main active component curcumin have been linked to a variety of impressive health benefits.

It’s well documented that turmeric has powerful anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties, which makes this herb a popular choice for those with liver disease (37).

A study in people with NAFLD demonstrated that daily treatment with 500 mg of a curcumin product for 8 weeks significantly reduced liver fat content and levels of AST and ALT, compared with a placebo group (38).

Another study in 70 people with NAFLD found that those who supplemented with 500 mg of curcumin and 5 mg of piperine per day for 12 weeks had significant reductions in ALT, AST, LDL (bad) cholesterol, and inflammatory markers, compared with a placebo group (39).

Piperine is a compound found in black pepper that enhances curcumin absorption.

It was also observed that the curcumin treatment significantly improved NAFLD severity, compared with the placebo group (39).

Supplementing with turmeric and curcumin is generally considered safe. However, some cases of acute liver injury have been reported. Still, it’s unclear whether these cases were due to the contamination of curcumin products or the products themselves (40).

Summary

Studies show that turmeric supplements may help treat NAFLD and reduce inflammation. Turmeric is generally considered safe, but some cases of liver injury have been reported.

Although garlic is botanically considered a vegetable, it’s a popular component of many herbal remedies. It’s packed with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory plant compounds, such as allicin, alliin, and ajoene, which may help support liver health (41, 42).

A 2020 study in 98 people with NAFLD found that those who took 800 mg of garlic powder per day for 15 weeks experienced significant reductions in ALT, AST, LDL (bad) cholesterol, and triglyceride levels, compared with a placebo group (42).

What’s more, 51% of the participants in the garlic group showed improvements in the severity of liver fat accumulation, compared with just 16% of the control group (42).

Another study in over 24,000 adults found that men who consumed raw garlic over 7 times per week had up to a 29% reduced risk of developing fatty liver disease. Although raw garlic intake was inversely associated with NAFLD in men, this association was not seen in women (43).

Additionally, a study linked raw garlic intake to a lower risk of liver cancer. Eating raw garlic twice or more per week was associated with a 23% reduced risk of liver cancer, compared with consuming raw garlic less than twice per week (44).

Although raw garlic is generally considered safe, concentrated garlic supplements may induce liver injury in some people (45).

Summary

Raw garlic and garlic powder have liver-protective properties and may improve liver health in those with NAFLD. Eating raw garlic may protect against liver cancer. Garlic is generally considered safe but may cause liver injury in some people.

Ginger root is a popular culinary ingredient and also commonly used as a medicinal treatment for many health conditions, including liver disease.

A 12-week study in 46 people with NAFLD found that supplementing with 1,500 mg of ginger powder per day significantly reduced ALT, total and LDL (bad) cholesterol, fasting blood sugar, and the inflammatory marker C-reactive protein (CRP), compared with placebo treatment (46).

Another study observed similar results. People with NAFLD who supplemented with 2 grams of ginger for 12 weeks experienced significant reductions in ALT, GGT, inflammatory markers, and fat accumulation in the liver, compared with a placebo group (47).

Ginger root contains powerful compounds, including gingerols and shogaols, that help inhibit inflammation and protect against cellular damage, which may help support liver health. Plus, ginger may help protect your liver against toxins like alcohol (48, 49).

Ginger is generally considered safe, even for those with liver conditions. However, you should always check with your healthcare provider before supplementing with high-dose ginger products (50).

Summary

Taking ginger supplements may help reduce liver damage and lower cholesterol, blood sugar, and inflammation in people with NAFLD. Ginger is generally considered safe.

In addition to the treatments listed above, many other herbs have been linked to improved liver health.

Danshen is a substance that’s commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine. It’s the dried roots of the herb Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge. Human and animal studies have shown that danshen may have positive effects on liver health.

Animal studies indicate danshen may help protect against alcohol-related liver disease and promote liver tissue regeneration, while some human studies suggest danshen injections may help treat liver fibrosis when used alongside other herbal remedies (51, 52, 53).

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Ginkgo biloba is a popular herbal supplement that has been linked to improved liver health. For example, a rodent study showed that ginkgo biloba injections reduced liver fibrosis and enhanced liver function (54).

Although ginkgo biloba has been associated with mild adverse side effects, it hasn’t been linked to liver injury specifically (55).

Astragalus is an edible herb commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine. It’s loaded with medicinal compounds, including saponins, isoflavonoids, and polysaccharides, which have powerful therapeutic properties (56).

It’s generally considered safe and hasn’t been associated with liver injury. However, it can interact with certain medications (57).

Rodent studies indicate that astragalus may help protect against fibrosis and high fat diet-induced fatty liver when used alone or in combination with other herbs (58, 59, 60).

Summary

Danshen, ginkgo biloba, and astragalus have all been associated with improved liver health in some animal and human studies. However, more research is needed.

Although some herbal treatments may help treat or prevent liver conditions, it’s critical for anyone interested in using herbal remedies for liver health to speak with a qualified healthcare provider first.

This is because many herbal treatments have been shown to be toxic to the liver and may be dangerous to take, especially for those with liver diseases or other medical conditions (61).

In fact, herbal medicines have been associated with liver damage and even death. Both singular herbs and herbal mixtures have the potential to cause serious damage to your liver (62).

What’s more, herbal supplements can be contaminated with heavy metals, pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and bacteria that can harm your liver (63).

Additionally, many herbs can interact with common medications, which can lead to liver injury and even death (63).

Even though certain herbs may be safe for you to use, many others aren’t, so you should always check with your healthcare provider before taking any herbal supplement.

Summary

Because many herbs can cause liver damage and interact with common medications, you should always check with your healthcare provider before taking any herbal supplement, especially if you have a condition that affects the liver.

Certain herbs have been associated with improved liver health, making them a popular natural remedy choice for those with liver conditions, as well as those who want to support their liver health.

Although some herbal supplements are considered safe and may even treat certain liver diseases, many others can harm liver health.

If you have questions about herbal therapies for liver disease or are interested in taking herbal supplements in hopes of supporting your liver health, always consult a knowledgeable healthcare provider for advice.

a list of medicinal herbs useful for the liver, which herbs can be drunk to treat, cleanse and restore the liver, doctors’ reviews liver tissue.

Not surprisingly, in recent years, herbal supplements and traditional medicine recipes for the use of teas, infusions and decoctions have become in demand in the treatment of even severe ailments.

Natural ingredients help cleanse, restore and heal the vital organ. However, phytotherapy is not as universal and safe as it might seem at first glance. We will tell you about the best herbs for the liver, their beneficial properties, and experienced doctors will remind you of contraindications that must be taken into account by everyone who cares about their health.

What is important to know about herbs for the liver

The history of herbal medicine	People have been treated with herbs since time immemorial. Evidence was found by archaeologists in Iraq: it turned out that Sumerian healers actively used infusions and powders from medicinal plants. Books on herbal medicine were in the library of Tsar Ivan IV the Terrible. And the terms “herbal medicine” and “phytopreparations” appeared at the beginning of the 20th century thanks to the Frenchman Henri Leclerc. In Russian-language literature, they often talk about “herbal medicine”.
Causes of liver diseases	One of the causes of liver diseases can be an excess of toxins that are formed in the intestines due to improper nutrition. The liver is badly affected by the presence of helminths (parasites) that poison the intestinal tract. Liver disease is also caused by the hepatitis virus and alcohol abuse.
Liver and natural hepatoprotectors	Natural hepatoprotectors – preparations from milk thistle, licorice and other plants – have shown their effectiveness in the treatment of chronic viral hepatitis C, liver cirrhosis, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (1).
Herbs that are harmful to the liver	Some herbs may be more harmful to the liver than synthesized drugs. Some are not well studied, others may contain harmful impurities due to poor purification. More than 6,000 plants are known to be harmful to the liver. The hepatotoxicity of common ginseng, atractylodeus, Indian cassia, comfrey, Caucasian hellebore and magnolia has been proven (2).

What herbs are good for the liver

The liver is involved in the processes of hematopoiesis, carbohydrate and hormonal metabolism, cholesterol synthesis, bile production and detoxification. Therefore, it is important to diagnose and treat her diseases in a timely manner.

Medicinal plants help us get rid of ailments and maintain a healthy liver. There are thousands of recipes on the web, magazines and books, but many of them are not clinically tested. Let’s talk about herbs, the healing properties of which in relation to the liver have been proven by scientists.

Milk Thistle

Photo: Ilse Orsel, unsplash.com

A plant native to Europe today found throughout the world. For the manufacture of medicines and dietary supplements, ground parts and seeds are used. The fruits of milk thistle (lat. Silybum marianum) contain a complex of biologically active substances called silymarin, which has hepatoprotective, antioxidant, immunomodulatory and anticancer effects.

Milk thistle helps protect liver cells from toxic substances and drugs. The medicinal herb is taken orally for liver damage caused by chemicals, alcohol and chemotherapy, mushroom poisoning, and as part of the complex therapy of non-alcoholic fatty disease, chronic inflammatory liver disease, cirrhosis and chronic hepatitis (3).

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Licorice

Photo: upload.wikimedia.org

The ancient Sumerians called licorice (lat. Glycyrrhíza) a “revitalizing plant”. As an adjunct in toxic liver damage, the extract of the root of this plant has proven itself well. Licorice contains acids that have an anti-inflammatory effect and prevent the development of diseases that occur due to metabolic disorders in liver cells. Scientists have proven that licorice and herbal preparations with this plant stimulate the activity and production of an enzyme that leads to liver detoxification (4).

Common chicory

Photo: pixabay.com

This perennial herb contains polysaccharides, inulin, organic acids, intibin glycoside, vitamins, tannins and bitter substances. Drinks with chicory rid the liver of toxins, stimulate choleretic activity, have a hepatoprotective effect and improve overall metabolism (5).

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St. John’s wort

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Perennial with small yellow flowers has been used as a medicinal herb since ancient times. St. John’s wort (lat. Hypericum) is part of the popular fees for the treatment of hepatitis, bile stasis and biliary dyskinesia. Decoctions and infusions treat gastritis and ulcers. In addition, St. John’s wort is used as an antiseptic and hemostatic agent.

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Dandelion

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Widespread dandelion (lat. Taraxacum officinale) contains a large amount of antioxidants that support the detoxification process of the liver. For treatment, roots and leaves are used. Dandelion affects the secretion of bile, making it more stable. The young leaves of the plant are commonly added to salads. Dandelion greens improve digestion and have a beneficial effect on overall health (6).

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Ginger root

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Ginger root (lat. Zingiber officinale) is useful for the liver, which suffers from alcohol intoxication. A plant with a bright spicy taste prevents the development of fatty liver, strengthens blood vessels, prevents damage to the kidney tissue and reduces the negative effects of alcohol on the body.

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Immortelle

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Herbaceous perennial (lat. Helichrysum) can be found in forests and steppes throughout Russia. The plant has a lot of essential resins, oils and organic compounds, so the immortelle is used to normalize the synthesis of bile and the level of bilirubin. In addition to the choleretic effect, it has laxative and antispasmodic properties.

Artichoke

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Unopened flower heads are a popular horticultural crop. The upper part of the plant is eaten raw, pickled, baked, boiled, stuffed and deep fried. At the same time, the artichoke is used as a remedy due to its pronounced antioxidant effect. A useful plant is used to restore functions in non-alcoholic fatty liver lesions, toxicosis, as well as liver diseases during pregnancy.

Three leaf watch

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The medicinal herb grows in swamps and ponds, so it has a different, more common, name – water trefoil. Watch helps with digestive disorders, stimulates the liver and gallbladder, improves the hematopoietic functions of the body.

Dyeing navel

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Herbaceous plant is erroneously called “yellow chamomile”. It really looks like chamomile, but has a golden yellow color. The preparation of umbilical flowers contains a large amount of flavonoids and essential oils. The plant is traditionally used for diseases of the liver and gallbladder.

How to properly take herbs for the liver

Medicinal herbs contain many active substances, so it would be a big mistake to thoughtlessly use this or that plant to treat or restore liver function. In order not to harm your health, it is important to follow the same precautions as when taking medication.

Important!

Herbal medicine should only be used after prior consultation with a doctor.

Liver treatment

Herbs for the liver stop the process of replacing healthy liver tissue with adipose or connective tissue, prevent the death of organ cells and eliminate its dysfunction.

Since there are many diseases of the liver, there is also a great variety of recipes for decoctions and tinctures from medicinal plants. For treatment, herbs can be used individually and in the form of fees. Liver fees, which are sold in pharmacies, are especially popular.

Liver cleanser

The liver and bile ducts are a versatile filter that needs periodic cleaning. Getting rid of toxic substances, liver tissues begin to recover. Medicinal plants affect the body gently, stimulate metabolism, tone up and improve overall well-being. Traditionally, flax seeds, milk thistle, St. John’s wort, artichoke, dandelion flowers, gentian root, barberry fruits and corn stigmas are used to cleanse the liver.

Before cleaning, it is better to prepare the liver, this can be done with settled mineral water.

For liver restoration

The internal organ has a unique ability to restore its functions and regenerate tissues after damage. Medicinal herbs can help with this. To restore the liver, a decoction of rose hips is suitable. It enhances the outflow of bile and relieves spasm of a drink from wormwood, immortelle flowers, calendula, yarrow, tansy, nettle and lingonberry fruits.

Usually, 10 g of dry plant material is used per glass of water. The grass is poured with water at room temperature, boiled for 20-30 minutes in a steam bath, and then left for half an hour to cool the drink and infuse.

Reviews of doctors about herbs for the liver

Mikhail Kutushov, toxicologist, professor, creator of the Kutushov Symbionts, ICDMC expert degrees. Cleansing is a common term, but you need to understand that the liver cleanses itself. Liver resection can remove up to 70% of the organ, and even the remaining 30% will cope with its function.

If a person has fatty liver, most of the liver cells in this case are replaced by fatty tissues. In this case, the “filter” is much more difficult to work, in fact, the liver becomes so clogged that cleaning is needed. Most often, they clean the biliary tract, bile ducts and gallbladder.

Hepatoprotectors and other drugs are now recommended to support liver function. Before taking them, you need to consult a hepatologist – a doctor who specializes in liver diseases. He will determine the presence of cirrhosis of the liver, atrophy, fatty hepatosis, etc. The hepatologist will look not only at the state of this organ, but also at the anatomical position of the gallbladder. Often the gallbladder is bent and twisted, against the background of this, belching, a feeling of heaviness, etc.

It is because of these symptoms that people feel they need to drink herbs to cleanse the liver and prevent pollution and disease. Herbs commonly drunk: Corn silk, St. John’s wort, artichoke, milk thistle, mint, dandelion, and flaxseed. In fact, almost all herbs have a choleretic effect, as well as oils: corn, linseed, sunflower. With this effect, herbs act on the bile ducts, drainage is enhanced.

The presence of bile and its fluidity are also affected by immunity, the speed of the intestines.

If you have problems, do not self-medicate, consult a doctor.

Vasily Gavrilov, Candidate of Medical Sciences, associate professor, surgeon of the highest category, coloproctologist, endoscopic surgeon:
— The liver is a chemical laboratory of the body. It has a large number of metabolic processes aimed at the neutralization of toxic products, the synthesis of hormones, the storage of energy material, and much more. The main liver cell is the hepatocyte. These cells are involved in all chemical processes. It is clear that as a result of such work with an excess of, for example, toxic substances, hepatocytes may not cope and be damaged. As a result, all processes are disrupted. Some long-term medications and, of course, alcohol have a negative effect on hepatocytes. With severe damage, hepatocytes “die” and are replaced by scar tissue. This process is called cirrhosis of the liver – a terrible complication that many people fear.

In some conditions of increased load on the liver, drugs that promote the work of hepatocytes can be used. On the one hand, these can be drugs that help the liver function in neutralizing toxins, on the other hand, drugs that accelerate the production of bile, as the main detoxifying system.

Also, to maintain the work of this body, you can use plants: birch, peppermint, celandine, St. John’s wort, artichoke, milk thistle, chamomile, licorice. The active ingredients are mixed, used in the form of decoctions in courses, in combination with drugs. However, it must be remembered that before any self-treatment, it is necessary to consult a doctor. The decision to use this or that herb should be taken together with the doctor.

Popular Questions and Answers

It is impossible to cover all aspects of the use of herbs for the treatment of the liver in one publication, so we will answer the most popular questions.

What herbs will be useful in hepatosis?

Hepatosis of the liver is an allergic-toxic reaction when degenerative changes in the tissue of the internal organ occur, which are accompanied by obesity, jaundice, fever and a general feeling of malaise. Along with drug treatment, it will be useful to regularly eat lettuce, parsley and dill for the prevention of hepatosis. An infusion of wild rose berries, a decoction of artichokes and green tea with mint or lemon will help alleviate the patient’s condition.

How else are herbs useful for the body?

Medicinal plants and herbal preparations that are used for a long time improve the general condition of the body. Often, in addition to liver diseases, they cure other ailments. For example, St. John’s wort helps to cope with gastritis and ulcers, wormwood normalizes digestion, immortelle inhibits the growth of staphylococci, streptococci and relieves nausea. Chamomile nicotinic and ascorbic acid play an important role in the fight against viral and bacterial infections.

Can herbs be harmful to health?

Today, no one denies the effectiveness of certain herbal medicines, but they should be taken with caution and in accordance with the doses prescribed by the doctor. Some herbs have contraindications for pregnant and lactating women, are not recommended for allergies, etc.

If used inappropriately, herbal remedies can lead to various liver damage. For example, cause a mild asymptomatic increase in the level of liver enzymes, acute or chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis of the liver, cholangitis – acute or chronic inflammation of the bile ducts or vascular lesions of the liver.

Sources

1. Mekhtiyev SN, Okovity SV, Mekhtieva OA Principles of choosing hepatoprotectors in the practice of a therapist // Attending physician. No. 08. 2016. URL:
   https://pharm-spb.ru/docs/pub/2016_Principles%20for%20the%20use%20of%20hepatoprotectors%20in%20the%20therapy%20practice.pdf
2. Stephanie M Woo, William D Davis, Soorya Aggarwal, Joseph W Clinton, Sara Kiparizoska, James H Lewis. Herbal and dietary supplement induced liver injury: Highlights from the recent literature // World J Hepatol. 2021. 13(9): 1019–1041. URL: https://www.wjgnet.com/1948-5182/abstract/v13/i9/1019.htm
3. Milk thistle – uses, side effects and more // WebMD Medical Journal. URL: https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-138/milk-thistle
4. Ershova IB, Osipova TF The use of medicinal plants as adjuvant therapy for viral hepatitis // Actual Infectology. Volume 5, No. 3. 2017. URL:
   https://cyberleninka.ru/article/n/ispolzovanie-lekarstvennyh-rasteniyv-kachestve-vspomogatelnoy-terapiivirusnyh-gepatitov/viewer
5. Saibel OL, Dargaeva TD, Pupykina KA Study of the choleretic and hepatoprotective activity of common chicory herb // Medical Bulletin of Bashkortostan. 2015. URL:
   https://cyberleninka.ru/article/n/izuchenie-zhelchegonnoy-i-gepatoprotektornoy-aktivnosti-travy-tsikoriya-obyknovennogo/viewer
6. Karomatov ID, Davlatova MS Medicinal properties of the medicinal plant dandelion // Biology and Integrative Medicine. No. 9. 2018, pp. 145‒158. URL:
   https://cyberleninka.ru/article/n/lechebnye-svoystva-lekarstvennogo-rasteniya-oduvanchik

Herbs and products for liver cleansing

The liver is an important organ of the body that aids in digestion, stores nutrients and detoxifies our body by removing harmful substances. The liver also acts as an important warrior of our immune system as it detects harmful bacteria, viruses and toxins that enter our body, captures them and throws them out of the body. A healthy liver is essential for overall health and well-being.

Excessive alcohol consumption, excessive consumption of unhealthy foods, processed and stale foods, carbonated drinks, irregular meal times, poor sleep, increased stress levels, and even certain medications can damage the liver. This can lead to frequent illnesses, poor quality of life and even death.

With the growing burden of liver disease worldwide, we must make healthy lifestyle changes and seek plant-based support to keep our livers strong and safe.

Many herbs are useful for maintaining liver health and for preventing and treating liver disease. Let’s take a look at the most beneficial herbs for liver health.

Best herbs for liver health

• Milk thistle

  Milk thistle always tops the list of herbs for liver health. It has long been used in herbal medicine to cleanse and protect the liver and has been the subject of much research.

  Milk thistle is believed to contain powerful antioxidants and plant compounds, especially silymarin, which help detoxify the liver and the entire body. It also has a protective effect by calming inflammation and slowing the progression of liver disease.

  To consume milk thistle, you can either take it as an extract or use the seeds to make a tea.

• Turmeric

  Turmeric has become very popular due to its anti-inflammatory properties. It helps stimulate the production of bile. Which supports both your liver and digestion. Researchers believe that the active ingredient in turmeric, called curcumin, may help liver health.

• Green tea

  You can also think of green tea as an herb. It has many health benefits and is rich in powerful antioxidants. Studies have shown that green tea may be beneficial for people with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. It is able to reduce certain markers of damage associated with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and reduce fatty changes in the liver.

  Other research shows that simply drinking green tea can help protect your liver and reduce your risk of liver disease.

• Garlic

  Garlic contains compounds that naturally increase glutathione levels. Glutathione is an important antioxidant for detoxifying the body. Raw garlic is known to be especially good for the liver.

• Licorice

  Licorice supplements may benefit people with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and protect against alcohol-related liver damage. It is important to note that some people may be more sensitive to licorice supplements and that they may lead to adverse side effects.

• Ginger

  Ginger root is known to relieve indigestion and nausea. It’s also good for your liver. Studies have shown that it contains plant compounds that help protect the liver (and body) from inflammation and cell damage.

• Burdock root

  Burdock root is another herb widely used in herbal medicine for detoxification and liver cleansing. It is considered a blood and liver purifier and helps with lymphatic congestion by stimulating lymphatic drainage. It can help in complete detoxification of the body and relieve skin problems associated with poor liver function or toxins in the body. Burdock root also has a cooling effect.

• Ginseng

  Ginseng is an adaptogenic herb most commonly used for energy and stress recovery. However, it also has powerful anti-inflammatory properties that help protect the liver from damage and may promote liver cell regeneration.