Liver Support

by | Jun 3, 2012 | Acupuncture, Detoxification

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Processing of dandelion at factory in Germany

The function of the liver is to assist with detoxification, digestion, hormone production, metabolism, blood sugar regulation, and storage of blood. We need our livers for survival, but sometimes we aren’t particularly kind to this very important organ.

Put your hand over the lower part of your right ribcage and say “thank you”. Here are some tips for supporting your liver.

  1. – Limit alcohol and processed food consumption.
  2. – Look at your medicine cabinet. Are you taking a lot of medication? Every pharmaceutical has side effects and needs to be processed by the liver. Do not stop any prescribed drugs without advice from your doctor. But, consider that if you are taking acetaminophen (e.g. Tylenol) daily or frequently, this is damaging to your liver.
  3. – Consider that anything you put on your skin will also be absorbed into your body and, if toxic, will affect your health. Though quantities of chemicals might be low, if used regularly, they can accumulate.
  4. – Look at your household cleansers. Does the bottle have a skull and crossbones on it? Consider that there are alternatives, including simple baking soda, vinegar, and lemon combinations and many healthier packages detergents and cleansers on the market.
  5. – Spend some time away from the city near lots of plants (plants help to clean the air).
  6. – Squeeze half a fresh lemon into room temperature or warm water and drink first thing in the morning to help support the liver.
  7. – Foods that are also good for your liver include turmeric, artichoke, garlic, grapefruit, bitter leafy greens (dandelion, endive, chicory), avocado, green tea, walnuts, cruciferous veggies (cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage, and brussel sprouts), beets, and apples.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) also associates the Liver system with other functions in the body, so additionally you could:

  1. – Work on letting go or working out angers, frustrations, and irritabilities.
  2. – Keep your eyes healthy. Follow the 20:20:20 rule. Every 20 minutes, spend 20 seconds looking 20 feet or more away (approximately).
  3. – Stretch! Tendons and ligaments are associated with the Liver according to TCM.
  4. – Keep a regular schedule with meals and sleep, as best as you can. The TCM Liver regulates cycles. Don’t confuse your Liver.
  5. – Exercise. Movement helps the circulation.

Acupuncture, Chinese herbs, supplements (ask me about Quassia), and other treatments and lifestyle changes can also help.