Botanicals—Liver Support
Liver Support II (with Picrorhiza) is a combination of herbs traditionally used for liver support with the added benefit of the Ayurvedic herb picrorhiza. Picrorhiza has been shown to increase bile production in the liver and inhibit prostaglandin formation. It is hepatoprotective and has liver cell promoting effects similiar to silymarin. Silybin, one of the primary constituents of milk thistle, supports the liver's efforts to remove chemicals, drugs, alcohol, and other exogenous toxins. Curcumin is also an inhibitor of arachidonic acid metabolism and has potent antioxidant properties.

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Every effort should be made to promote healthy liver function. To a very large extent the health and vitality of an individual is determined by the health and vitality of the liver. The liver performs a wide variety of functions and proper liver function is essential for optimum health. The liver is the main detoxification organ, as it takes most toxic substances and eliminates them by making them water-soluble. Stress to the liver can cause inflammation of the liver cells. If the liver is not functioning properly, a myriad of symptoms will manifest.

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• Liver cleansing/support
• Liver regeneration
• Gallbladder support
• Bile flow enhancement
• Flatulence
• Digestion
• Chronic skin conditions

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Picrorhiza is an Ayurvedic herb shown to increase bile production in the liver and inhibit prostaglandin formation. Prostaglandins are unsaturated fatty acids that are important in the inflammatory process. Picrorhiza is a liver protecting nutrient and has liver cell regenerative effects similar to silymarin, found in milk thistle. (Picrorhiza kurroa (Kutaki) Royle ex Benth as a hepatoprotective agent - experimental and clinical studies. J Postgrad Med. 1996 Oct-Dec;42(4):105-108.)

Milk thistle has its main action on the kidneys and liver. It has a reputation for being a hepatoprotectant (liver protecting nutrient). Milk thistle has been employed as a cholagogue (agent to stimulate gallbladder contraction and promote bile flow) in supportive treatment of hepatic and biliary functional disorders. Silybin, a constituent of milk thistle, inhibits liver damage from chemicals, drugs, alcohol, viruses and mushroom toxin. Silybin has been shown to regenerate liver cells (Sonnenbichler J et al. Proceedings of the International Bioflavonoid Symposium (Munich, Frg) 1981;477).

Artichoke is a diuretic, and stimulates bile evacuation. Research shows artichoke to be beneficial for supporting healthy cholesterol levels, improving liver function and acting as a diuretic [Facts and Comparisons: The Review of Natural Products. St. Louis: Wolters Kluwer Company, June 1999; Dtsch Apoth Ztg 1996; 136: 1405–1414; Phytomedicine 1997; 4: 369–378]. The polyphenolic compound cynarin, found in artichoke, has been shown to exhibit hepatoprotective and hepatoregenerating effects. Cynarin closely resembles silymarin (found in milk thistle), which has long been recognized to aid in liver disorders, acting as a potent liver protector.

Curcumin is the active constiuent of turmeric, the key ingredient found in many curry dishes that gives the curry its distinct color and flavor. Curcumin has been shown to have numerous therapeutic effects including potent antioxidant properties (Biochem Pharmacol 25:1811.25, 1976; Chem Pharmacol Bull 33:1725-8, 1985), adrenal support and liver protectant (Planta Medica 57:1-7,1991; J Phann Phannac 25: 447-52,1973; Planta Medica 49:185-7, 1983). Turmeric is known for its cholagogue (stimulate gallbladder contraction) and choleretic (stimulate liver to secrete more bile) properties.

Dandelion is an excellent liver remedy and has a high carotenoid content. Dandelion is a natural herbal cleanser, and is a good source of calcium, phosphorus, and potassium. According to A. Leung, who reviewed several studies on dandelion, it, "...enhances the flow of bile, alleviating liver congestion and bile duct inflammation" (as cited in, Marti, J. & Hine, A. Alternative Health Medicine Encyclopedia 1995. Visible Ink Press, Washington, D.C. p. 84). Dandelion is also a powerful diuretic. It is one of the best natural sources of potassium and replenishes this mineral, whereas other diuretics can deplete potassium.

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Do not take in pregnancy. Medicinal amounts of any vitamin, mineral, herbal or specialty nutrient should only be taken with the advice of a licensed healthcare professional.