Love Your Liver Over The Holidays

‘Tis the holiday season. And what is the holiday season without a little indulgence. We all have richer foods, a few more drinks with dinner and enjoy all that holiday gatherings have to offer. However, this can add some stress on the liver, the main organ that filters blood and detoxifies the body. When the liver becomes burdened by those extra indulgences, it will need some support in carrying out its functions of phase 1 and phase 2 detoxification (the 2-step process in which the liver uses enzymes to clear toxins from the body).

Silybum marianum, or milk thistle, a plant in the Asteraceae family, is classified as a hepatoprotective herb or “liver protector”. This means it helps protect liver cells from chemical damage. Furthermore, Silybum helps tonify the liver, is anti-inflammatory and also helps support the 2 phases of detoxification. This plant will get your liver to process those few extra glasses of wine, beer or spirits more efficiently. This herb also increases the secretion and flow of bile from the liver and gallbladder helping the body process fats more efficiently. So why not love your liver this holiday season and give it a helping hand as you indulge! Happy Holidays!

(This information does not substitute for advice or information provided by your naturopathic doctor. Please consult an ND prior to taking any herbal supplementation.)