Pre-Carnival Homeopathic Pharmacist Jamar Tejada Talks Alternative And Natural Treatments For Damaged Liver
Who has never had a boldo to relieve a hangover, the result of a few too many cups? While boldo is the best-known “tea” for healing the liver, there are other herbs and spices that aid in the process of detoxification, inflammation, and regeneration of hepatocytes (liver cells), great options for those with liver problems.
But as I always leave it to the records that it is important to continue following any treatments that have been indicated by the doctor, as well as your willingness to resort to any herb must be communicated, as herbs contain phytochemicals that can nullify the effects of your allopathic treatment , as well as they can exacerbate it, further compromising the health of your liver.
If you suffer from liver problems, you should also remember to avoid alcohol, coffee, refined products, sausages, etc. It should also be said to maintain a balanced diet, rich in fruit and vegetables.
If you think that only a change in diet can regulate your liver’s indications, know that sporting regularity brings direct gains. A study conducted at the University of Pittsburgh, USA, attested that physical exercise brings three main benefits: alleviate insulin resistance, increase the burning of stored triglycerides and prevent damage to hepatocytes (liver cells), the beginning of the development of cirrhosis and cancer.
As always, the dynamic duo “good nutrition VS exercise practice” are the pillars for the balance of our entire system.
Diet combined with liver care
Carbohydrates: give priority to integrals. Root crops, such as cassava and yam, are good choices. Simple carbohydrates, like white bread and potatoes, require moderation.
Fats: polyunsaturated fats, such as those found in avocados, nuts and fish, are welcome. In the meantime, watch out for the saturated version, with yellow cheeses and red meats.
Probiotics: yogurt and fermented milk rich in good bacteria maintain the balance of the intestinal microbiota, which is related to the proper functioning of the liver.
Fructose: Fruit sugar is not always responsible for steatosis, if fruit is eaten together with its fiber, the result is positive!
Alcohol: Do I need to mention all the side effects of alcohol on the liver as I mentioned in my previous column? It’s worth a look.
herbs and spices
Herbs and spices can also aid in this process, as well as aiding in organ cell regeneration and relieving the symptoms of fatty liver, such as vomiting and a bloated belly. Therefore, I will cite some examples of the most used herbs and dry extracts, more than welcome when what matters is the health of your liver. Are they:
Milk thistle (Carduus marianus) and Silymarin
Silymarin is the generic name of a group of natural compounds (silymarin, silydianin and silycristin) extracted from the fruit of the medicinal plant Carduus marianus, recognized for its antihepatotoxic activity. Silymarin is characterized as a hepatoprotective agent that prevents peroxidation of lipids in the cell membrane and organelles of hepatocytes.
Peroxidation is the incorporation of molecular oxygen (free radical) into the fatty acids of the cell membrane, which leads to the destruction of its structure, the loss of metabolic exchanges and, finally, cell death.
Therefore, silymarin protects liver function from any toxic substances, whether they come from the outside or are produced by our own body.
Silymarin is used in the treatment of chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, steatosis and hepatotoxic lesions, producing an improvement in clinical symptoms (headache, asthenia, anorexia, digestive disorders, etc.).
It should be indicated by a health professional, as the dosage depends on factors such as gender, age and weight, among other variables. Silymarin is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to the drug – mechanical obstruction of the bile ducts.
How to prepare milk thistle tea: add 1 tablespoon of dried milk thistle leaves to boiling water (1 cup) and then let sit for 10 minutes. The tea should be filtered and drunk 3 times a day.
Artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.)
Popular like boldo, artichoke has cynarin in its active ingredient, largely responsible for increasing bile secretion. The increase in the metabolic efficiency of the liver is due to polyphenolic compounds, while cynarin significantly lowers the cholesterol rate through enzymatic metabolic stimulation, as well as having hepatoprotective properties.
The artichoke is used in cases of hyperlipidemia and atheromatosis inside the adipocytes (fat cells). The protective and regenerating action of liver cells is carried out by flavonoids, which stimulate the fundamental enzymatic synthesis of hepatic metabolism.
Its use can consist of capsules or herbal teas that must be prepared using dried artichoke leaves.
Method of preparation: boil 1 liter of water in a saucepan and then, as soon as the first air bubbles form, turn off the heat. Add 1 teaspoon (5g to 6g) of artichoke leaves to the water, cover the pot and let sit for 10 minutes. Filter and drink up to 4 cups of tea a day before meals.
Possible side effects: The main side effects of using artichoke tea are mild diarrhea, excess gas, weakness, nausea and heartburn.
Long turmeric
Curcuma longa L is an active ingredient that contains curcumin with a powerful anti-inflammatory action, inhibiting the activity of the molecules responsible for mediating pain and inflammation by inhibiting these molecular targets. Turmeric manages to control the inflammatory process and without side effects, and can be used chronically.
The usual dose of standardized dry extract (95%) is 300 to 500 mg three times a day taken with food (consult your doctor).
dark red orange
The dry extract of this orange is found in the form of capsules in pharmaceutical pharmacies grown in the Mediterranean, exclusively in the area around the Etna volcano, Sicily, Italy – which is the main source of anthocyanin pigments especially cyanidin-3-glucoside ( C3G), an excellent antioxidant not usually found in other citrus fruits, as well as containing a high concentration of vitamin C, flavonoids and hydroxycinnamic acids.
Thanks to the powerful antioxidant action and the synergism of the components, it has a wide range of benefits, providing a significant improvement in the accumulation of fat in the liver and a reduction in blood levels of triacylglycerols. The dosage will depend on factors such as gender, age and weight. Consult your doctor.
Blueberry (Peumus boldus Molina)
Originally from the mountainous regions of Chile, known in Brazil as “boldo” or “boldo-do-Chile”, it is one of the most important plants for liver health. Studies have shown that boldin, its main active ingredient, works by interfering with the mechanism associated with contraction. It has a diuretic action which occurs as a result of the irritation caused by the terpineol present in its essential oil. It also acts on gastric secretions, facilitating digestion.
Adverse reactions: intestinal spasm disorders due to laxative action, alteration or decrease in the sense of taste, irritation of the throat, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, indigestion, nausea, vomiting and malaise.
Method of preparation: boil a cup of boiling water over a tablespoon of dried boldo leaves and let sit for 10 minutes. The tea should be strained and drunk 2 or 3 times a day, preferably before meals.
Surely there are some steps to start your healing process, or even to improve the aftermath of the Carnival hype.
Happy revelry, always in moderation!
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
