Herbal Treatment for Liver Cirrhosis

Herbs have been used for hundreds of years to help improve liver health and function. The National Digestive Disease Information Clearinghouse states that cirrhosis is a liver-related condition involving degeneration and dysfunction of your liver tissue. If you have liver cirrhosis, your healthy liver tissue is being replaced by scar tissue, which impairs blood flow through your liver. If you are considering using herbs to help treat your liver cirrhosis, first consult with your physician about the potential benefits and drawbacks of herbal therapy.

Liver Cirrhosis

The University of Maryland Medical Center states that cirrhosis is commonly caused by alcohol abuse 1. In fact, in the U.S., excessive alcohol consumption is the leading cause of liver scarring. Other possible causes of cirrhosis include hepatitis B and C, cystic fibrosis, certain autoimmune conditions, blocked bile ducts and iron- and copper-related metabolic disorders. Signs and symptoms of liver cirrhosis include:

• jaundice
  
• fatigue
  
• decreased appetite
  
• swelling
  
• vomiting
  
• nausea
  
• weight loss
  
• abdominal pain

Herbs for Liver Health

Some herbs may possess the ability to protect and restore the health and function of your liver. Celandine, milk thistle and bupleurum are other useful herbs for liver problems.

Most Popular Herb

Milk thistle is one of the most popular herbs for the treatment of liver cirrhosis. Milk thistle is a plant indigenous to the Mediterranean region but now grows around the world. The leaves of the milk thistle plant produce a milky fluid when crushed. Silymarin is the active ingredient in milk thistle that helps protect your liver and treat liver conditions such as cirrhosis, hepatitis and fatty liver. Silymarin, a combination of flavonoids, helps liver cells damaged by alcohol and other toxins regenerate.

Warning

Certain herbs may help treat your liver cirrhosis, although there is no guarantee of a cure. You should understand the risks associated with herbal remedies before using them to treat your liver dysfunction. A health care professional with advanced training in botanical medicine can tell you what herbs are safe for you, how to use these herbs most effectively and what side effects you might experience. Herbal remedies contain active ingredients that can cause significant physiological effects. Always talk with your doctor before taking herbs.