11 Herbs That Repair the Liver Naturally

The liver is an essential organ in your body, playing a vital role in many biological functions. As such, it’s essential to keep it healthy and protect it from injuries and conditions such as hepatitis. While there are specific medications for those purposes, many people are turning to natural alternatives instead. Here are 11 of the most popular herbs for liver health:

1. Licorice root

Licorice is a popular herb with a long history of use as traditional medicine for various conditions. Experts point out that licorice root contains “glycyrrhizin” — a set of compounds that can alleviate liver toxicity. Notably, licorice can reduce the risk of liver cancer in people with hepatitis C.

Researchers suggest that licorice root may be a powerful antioxidative, giving it its liver-protective properties. However, they also point out that glycyrrhizin has some adverse side effects, like altered blood sodium and potassium levels. Furthermore, research is inconclusive regarding its actual efficiency as a liver-protecting agent.

2. Phyllanthus amarus

Phyllanthus amarus, commonly known as “gale of the wind” or “stonebreaker,” is a leafy herb present on most continents. It can also be an excellent supplement for the liver. Clinical trials show that this herb can significantly impact hepatitis B treatment.

When combined with other antivirals, Phyllanthus amarus leads to reduced hepatitis B virus levels affecting DNA. It’s unclear how effective this herb is when taken on its own. However, experts suggest that it shows promise as a liver-protecting agent, which means it’s one of the first candidates for further testing.

3. Turmeric

Turmeric has recently gained popularity as a supplement for many conditions, such as anxiety, hyperlipidemia, and arthritis. Its main component, curcumin, has widely recognized antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, also making it ideal for improving muscle soreness after exercise. 

Curcumin has also shown promise in protecting the liver, as it can reduce lipid accumulation. This improved fat metabolism can minimize the risk of steatosis — a condition in which fat specifically accumulates in the liver. Similarly, antioxidants like curcumin can help reduce the oxidative stress caused by alcoholic liver disease.

4. Milk thistle

Milk thistle, also known as "silymarin,"  is a plant native to Europe that’s often used as a supplement for jaundice, diabetes, and indigestion. Some preliminary research suggests that it may also be helpful as a herb for liver health, treating conditions like cirrhosis and hepatitis.

Experts point out that milk thistle works through a specific compound called “dihydroquercetin,” which is also present in onions. This compound could reduce fat buildup in the liver — particularly in people who drink alcohol.

Still, it’s important to remember that further testing is needed to fully confirm these benefits.

5. Ginseng root

Ginseng root is another increasingly popular herb that boosts the immune system, improving performance and reducing cancer risk. It’s also a known antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, making it beneficial in treating conditions such as diabetes.

Ginseng is also popular for treating liver diseases, as its beneficial properties can significantly impact conditions like cirrhosis and hepatitis. Furthermore, ginseng root could also be helpful for liver surgeries and transplantations.

6. Wolfberry

Lycii Fructus, more commonly known as "wolfberry," is a fruit that’s often used as a herbal remedy for the eyes and liver. It contains several beneficial compounds which provide it with anti-aging, antioxidant, and immune-boosting properties.

Notably, this berry can severely improve antioxidant activities in your liver, preventing cellular damage caused by liver diseases. Similarly, it has shown promise in preventing liver cancer. However, more studies are needed to confirm these properties.

7. Blackthorn leaves

Blackthorn, scientifically known as Acacia mellifera, is a shrub native to Africa. It’s known for its characteristic thorns, which are black and grow in pairs. Blackthorn is relatively unknown in the West — however, research suggests that it can be a fantastic supplement for treating liver damage.

In a recent study, researchers treated damaged liver cells with blackthorn leaf extract. Surprisingly, almost all cells recovered, making blackthorn one of the most promising herbs for liver health. Similarly, blackthorn leaves have shown significant antioxidative properties.

8. Baobab

Baobab is an African tree that’s famous for its size and odd-looking shape. These trees yield a nutrient-rich fruit packed with vitamin C and tartaric acid. Not many people know that the pulp of this fruit can also significantly impact liver health.

Experts suggest that Baobab fruit pulp can protect your liver against carbon-related damage and chemical imbalances. Similarly, it appears to possess antioxidant, analgesic, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate most liver diseases.

9. Garlic

Garlic has a long history of use as a medicinal plant worldwide. It has several beneficial properties, from preventing cancer to helping with cardiovascular risk factors. Your liver is no exception, as research shows that it can positively impact fat buildup in this organ.

Furthermore, garlic can significantly reduce chemical imbalances in cases of alcoholic liver disease. This is achieved through various compounds present in garlic that have antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties. 

10. Ginger

Ginger root is a widespread herbal medicine with many beneficial properties, like reducing cholesterol. Recent research shows that it could also help treat non-alcoholic fatty liver disease by reducing liver enzymes, inflammation, and insulin resistance.

Like most other herbs in this list, ginger contains antioxidative compounds and reduces fat buildup in your liver. However, experts point out that you must take either dry or fresh ginger for at least three weeks before these effects can be observed. 

11. Green tea extract

Green tea is known for having dozens of beneficial properties that impact various parts of your body. This includes your liver, as recent research indicates that the primary compound in green tea has powerful antioxidative properties. In turn, this can help reduce your risk of hepatic fibrosis — a condition in which excess tissue builds up in your liver.

These antioxidative properties help prevent liver cancer and cardiovascular disease, making it one of the best overall supplements for most people. However, it’s unclear whether these benefits appear only when you take green tea extract or if they also occur if you drink green tea in its traditional form.