Detoxification and Liver H

Everything we eat, everything we breathe, and everything absorbed through our skin is processed in some way by the liver.  It is estimated that the liver is capable of performing over 500 separate functions.  Nutrition for this complex organ can protect, stimulate and regenerate liver cells and provide antioxidant support.

Several natural solutions provide hepatoprotectant support.  The active constituent in Artichoke has been shown to specifically protect cells against chemical-introduced liver damage. (Adzet, 1987)  In clinical studies, Picrorhiza kurroa extract has demonstrated the remarkable ability to protect the liver from viral hepatitis infection and against alcohol and acetaminophen consumption. (Visen et al. 1998; Santra et al. 1998; Vaidya et al. 1996; Rastogi et al. 1996)  Milk Thistle has at least three active compounds which work to protect the liver.  Silybinin, from Milk Thistle extract, administered in poisoned animals significantly reduced the corresponding liver damage, as measured by important liver enzyme levels in the blood. (Vogel, 1984)

There are natural ingredients that support and improve liver cellular activity after the onset of liver disease.  The literature has shown Picrorhiza is actually able to improve protein and nucleic acid production, which in turn may actually stimulate liver growth and regeneration. (Sing, et al. 1992)  In a study where liver damage was induced by alcohol consumption, intervention with Picrorhiza kurroa facilitated less liver damage than in the control. (Rastogi et al. 1996)  In a randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled trial, patients already diagnosed with viral hepatitis were given standardized Picrorhiza three times a day or a placebo.  Bilirubin levels for those taking Picrorhiza were reduced to average values in approximately one third of the time as those taking the control. (Vaidya et al. 1996)  Another study found that lesions on the liver and lipid peroxidation were significantly reduced when an extract of Picrorhiza was administered to mice where liver damage was induced with powerful hepatotoxic chemicals. (Santra et al. 1998)  Picrorhiza extract has also showed significant curative activity in vitro in damaged liver cells. (Visen, et al. 1998)

Additionally, Milk Thistle has been studied for its ability to ameliorate the affects of acetaminophen overdose. (Shear et al., 1995; Dehpour et al., 2000)  In alcoholics, Milk Thistle has been studied for its ability to improve and support liver health. (Varga, et al., 1991; Carrescia et al., 1980)

Milk thistle, Picrorhiza, and Turmeric all provide antioxidant or anti-inflammatory liver support. (Chandler et al. 1992; Sonnenbichler et al. 1999; Reddy et al. 1994)  Turmeric, in particular, lowered lipid peroxidation by 35% by stimulating the liver's own antioxidant enzymes.