9 Essential Herbs for Optimal Liver Health – International Edition (English)

June 15, 2025

Some of the most beneficial herbs for maintaining liver health include ginseng, licorice, turmeric, and ginger. These plants are renowned for their capacity to shield liver cells, decrease swelling, and encourage regrowth.

According to
Healthline
Herbal treatments are becoming increasingly popular for enhancing liver wellness, with research indicating that approximately 65% of people in the U.S. and Europe affected by liver conditions include these natural substances in their therapeutic approach. These plants help improve liver functionality and decrease inflammation, demonstrating significant benefits for maintaining liver health.

Below are the nine top herbs beneficial for liver health, including their possible advantages and safety considerations:


1. Milk thistle (Silymarin)

Milk thistle has been traditionally utilized for treating liver issues and includes components like silybin, silychristin, and silydianin. These elements are recognized for their antioxidant characteristics. Studies indicate that milk thistle may aid in safeguarding liver cells, decreasing swelling, and promoting regrowth.

Even though it is typically seen as safe, further studies are necessary to completely grasp its advantages.


2. Ginseng

Ginseng, recognized for its anti-inflammatory properties, appears promising in safeguarding the liver against toxic substances and aiding in the regeneration of liver cells. Research indicates that it might enhance liver function and decrease fatigue among individuals with liver diseases.

Nevertheless, ginseng might interfere with certain drugs and lead to liver damage; therefore, it is crucial to seek advice from a healthcare professional prior to use.


3. Licorice

The licorice root, notably due to the presence of glycyrrhizin, exhibits properties that combat inflammation and viruses. Research indicates that this component can alleviate liver inflammation and potentially shield against harm caused by alcohol consumption to the liver.

Nevertheless, extended usage or large amounts might result in elevated blood pressure and disruptions in potassium levels, hence the need for careful consideration.


4. Turmeric (Curcumin)

A detailed image of turmeric powder. Stock photo courtesy of Pexels.

Curcumin, the key component found in turmeric, possesses strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant characteristics. As mentioned
Medical News Today
Studies indicate that turmeric might aid in decreasing liver fat, reducing liver enzyme levels, and safeguarding against liver damage, especially in instances of
non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
(NAFLD).

Although typically safe, reports of certain instances of acute liver damage have surfaced; therefore, the dosage must be carefully tracked.


5. Garlic

Garlic includes antioxidants like allicin, potentially helping decrease liver fat buildup and enhancing liver enzyme levels in individuals with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Consuming raw garlic consistently has been associated with a lower likelihood of developing liver issues and possibly liver cancer.

Nevertheless, high doses of garlic supplements can potentially lead to liver damage in certain instances; thus, it is advisable to eat garlic in its natural state.


6. Ginger

Ginger
It is well-known for its anti-inflammatory effects and its capability to shield the liver from harmful substances. Research indicates that ginger may assist in lowering liver enzyme levels, reducing cholesterol, and decreasing fat buildup in the liver.

It typically poses minimal risk for most individuals; however, high dosages ought to be employed cautiously, especially concerning people who have pre-existing liver issues.


7. Danshen

Danshen, an essential component of traditional Chinese medicine, has been recognized for its possible role in safeguarding the liver against harm caused by alcohol consumption and promoting liver regrowth. Certain research indicates that when combined with other herbal remedies, danshen might assist in treating liver fibrosis.


8. Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo biloba is an herbal remedy renowned for potentially enhancing liver health and decreasing liver scarring. Despite some minor side effects, it hasn’t been explicitly tied to causing liver harm. Since Ginkgo biloba might interfere with specific drugs, consulting a medical professional before using it is crucial.


9. Astragalus

Astragalus, frequently employed in traditional Chinese medicine, has shown potential for protecting the liver. Research indicates that it might aid in preventing fat accumulation in the liver and reducing liver fibrosis, either as an individual treatment or alongside other herbal remedies. Although typically considered safe, Astragalus could interfere with certain drugs; therefore, seeking medical advice prior to usage is crucial.

It is essential to seek advice from a healthcare professional before incorporating any herbal supplements into your regimen, particularly if you have a liver ailment or are currently using medication. Although herbs provide various advantages, they ought not to supplant traditional medical therapies; moreover, certain herbs may induce adverse reactions or interfere with other drugs.

In addition to using herbal supplements, keeping a well-balanced diet, engaging in consistent physical activity, and steering clear of heavy alcohol intake and environmental pollutants are crucial for the best possible liver condition.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *