The liver is a vital organ in the human body, performing essential functions such as efficient detoxification, breaking down fats, and supporting the production of certain proteins. When the liver malfunctions, it can lead to a range of abnormal symptoms, including jaundice, yellowing eyes, abdominal swelling and pain, swollen ankles and feet, dark urine, pale stools, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and chronic fatigue.
Liver disease can be caused by genetic factors, aging, obesity, viral infections, and excessive alcohol consumption. If left untreated, liver damage can become life-threatening.
To heal liver damage, it is crucial to follow the prescribed medication advised by your doctor and adopt a healthier lifestyle. This includes maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and abstaining from alcohol.
Additionally, incorporating healthy beverages like water and herbal teas can promote liver detoxification. Here are some natural liver-cleansing drinks and their benefits:
Liver Detox and Cooling Drinks
- Plantain Leaves
Plantain leaves are rich in vitamins A, C, K, and calcium. Notably, they contain high levels of aucubin, a glucoside with heat-clearing and liver-detoxifying properties. In traditional medicine, plantain leaves are commonly used in diuretic and anti-inflammatory treatments.
You can consume plantain leaves by drying and brewing them into a tea, or by cooking them with pork and eating them a few times a week.
- Sweet Herb Leaves
In traditional medicine, sweet herb leaves are known for their sweet and cool properties. They are commonly used in detoxifying, heat-clearing, and blood-cooling remedies, effectively treating liver and kidney-related issues.
Sweet herb leaves can be used alone or in combination with other herbs such as couchgrass roots, virgin flower, golden thread, cooked soil, and foxglove. However, it is essential to consult a herbalist for proper dosage to avoid any side effects.
- Water Dropwort
Water dropwort is abundant in vitamins A and B, fiber, protein, calcium, potassium, iron, and lipids. It is known for its liver-cooling and detoxifying properties. Individuals prone to mouth ulcers and acne due to internal heat can benefit from consuming water dropwort.
Water dropwort can be eaten raw as a salad green or blended and strained for a refreshing drink. Its consumption also aids digestion and relieves bloating.
- Climbing Stemmed Ficus
Climbing stemmed ficus, also known as cow or climbing fig, is predominantly found in the northern and central provinces of Vietnam. It is used to treat hepatitis B due to its high content of flavonoids, sterols, saponins, alkaloids, and amino acids, which help fight the hepatitis B virus.
The simplest way to consume climbing stemmed ficus is by infusing it in hot water and drinking the tea. This beverage effectively detoxifies and cools the liver, reducing liver enzymes. Alternatively, you can combine climbing stemmed ficus with dog-born and vinca herbs, roasting them slightly before brewing a daily drink.
However, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional before consuming any of these leaves to ensure their suitability for your body and avoid potential side effects.
