The liver is the largest solid organ in the body, and it can be damaged and negatively affected by poor diet and lifestyle choices. If you aren't properly taking care of your body, chances are, your insides are suffering. If you find yourself experiencing any of the following, your liver may be crying out for help:
Abdominal bloating
Pain or discomfort over the liver (in the right upper abdominal area under the rib cage)
Excessive abdominal fat or a roll around the upper abdomen
Trouble digesting
Acid reflux / Heartburn
Dark spots on the skin
Overheating / Excessive perspiration
Itchy, blotchy skin
Unexplained weight gain
Chronic fatigue
The above symptoms can be signs that your liver is blocked or clogged with unhealthy fat. Not taking care of your liver can result in many serious medical problems, so it's important to take active steps to keep your liver clean and healthy by staying active, eating a healthy diet, and limiting exposure to harmful substances. Exposure to the following can cause a buildup of toxins in the liver:
Smoke
Gasoline
Paint and glue
Cleaners
Dyes
Pesticides
Fertilizers
Alcohol
Processed foods
Detoxing the Liver
There are many products on the market claiming to be the best form of detox when it comes to the liver. They come in the form of cleanse kits, liver flushes, pills, liquids and even powders. But the best liver detox is a natural one. These five herbs can aid in liver health by removing waste products, purifying the blood, and keeping the liver healthy.
1. Burdock
Burdock is a bitter herb that can be prepared in food or made into tea. It works by purifying the blood and detoxing the liver. Burdock is a natural diuretic that encourages the removal of waste from the blood, relieving stress on the liver. This powerful herb boasts antibacterial and anti-fungal properties that can also be used to treat skin conditions.
2. Blessed Thistle
Blessed thistle is an herb with a bitter flavor that was originally used in Ayurvedic medicine. The name comes from the belief that this herb has the ability to cure any ailment. A tea made from blessed thistle is a great natural remedy for digestive issues, coughs, colds and allergies. It stimulates stomach acids and supports digestion, helping to remove toxins from the liver.
3. Red Clover
Red clover grows native to northwest Africa, Europe and Asia. It's a wild herb that can help purify the blood and stimulate sweating to expel toxins from the skin. Red clover tea has a slightly sweet taste and supports the liver by helping to reduce inflammation and rid the body of waste.
4. Sheep Sorrel
Sheep sorrel is a bitter herb that supports the liver through its diuretic properties. Sheep sorrel is one of the main ingredients in essiac tea, which may help the body ward off cancer. It's rich in nutrients, purifies the blood and helps to ward off infections.
5. Watercress
Watercress is a great leafy source of Vitamin K, Vitamin C, Vitamin A, iron and calcium. It's also rich in phytochemicals that help the liver detox. Watercress is also a natural diuretic that aids in waste removal while providing the body with rich nutrients.
h/t: the hearty soul
The above symptoms can be signs that your liver is blocked or clogged with unhealthy fat. Not taking care of your liver can result in many serious medical problems, so it's important to take active steps to keep your liver clean and healthy by staying active, eating a healthy diet, and limiting exposure to harmful substances. Exposure to the following can cause a buildup of toxins in the liver:
