“By cleansing the liver, we promote better digestion and a strengthening of the immune system.”
As a key part of the detoxification system, the liver actively participates in the removal of accumulated toxins. “By cleansing the liver, we stimulate its natural functions, thus promoting better digestion, regulation of metabolism and strengthening of the immune system,” explains Alexandra Kouklevsky, naturopath and energy therapist. Detoxifying your liver also helps “to improve energy, to have beautiful skin and to reduce excess sebum, to reduce bad breath, to reduce hormonal imbalances, to have more efficient transit, to improve the functioning of dependent organs of the liver such as the thyroid, the pancreas, the brain, the skin, the kidneys… to improve the digestion of emotions such as frustration, anger, jealousy, resentment andt enhance the development of positive emotions such as willpower, courage, confidence, contentment, satisfaction, enthusiasm, cooperation, acceptance and surrender” according to Sophie Benabi, micronutrition specialist and Ayurveda practitioner.
Rosemary, artichoke…
After an intense period for the liver (party, excessive eating, etc.) or when your body makes you feel it (heaviness, bloating), you can support the work of the liver by using plants.with choleretic properties (the active ingredients of the plant promote the secretion of bile by the liver in order to digest fats) and/or cholagogues (the active ingredients cause the evacuation of bile towards the intestine) or hepato-protective properties.continues Benjamin Dupuis, naturopath and General Director of OMNES. For example: rosemary, artichoke, dandelion root, burdock root, milk thistle, fumitory… are the most recommended for the liver.
► To prepare them as an infusion, put the plants in a saucepan of cold water (one tablespoon of plant per cup of water). Bring to a simmer with a lid (stage before boiling). Turn off the heat and leave to infuse, covered, for 10 minutes. Filter and serve hot.
Also think about the seeds you have in the kitchen
In Ayurveda, Sophie Benabi offers two infusions to favor for detoxifying your liver:
► An infusion of cumin, coriander and fennel (seeds): “This alliance supports the good health of the liver and the entire digestive system – The infusion will be made by adding 1/2 teaspoon of each spice to 250 ml of water. Pour the boiling water over the spices, and let it infuse for about 10 to 15 minutes.”
► Infusion of turmeric, ginger and lemon: “All three of these ingredients promote bile production and enzyme activity, which helps the liver process and eliminate toxins more effectively.”
► For the most experienced in Ayurveda, the infusion of triphala: Triphala is a combination of three Ayurvedic fruits, Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica), and Haritaki (Terminalia chebula). “All known for their powerful antioxidant properties that help protect the liver from free radical damage. It also helps reduce blood sugar, detoxify the entire digestive system (intestines, colon, liver).”
Duration side “in general for herbal teas, the cure can be done on 3 weeks at a rate of 3 cups per day” Alexandra Kouklevsky tells us. It is preferable to practice detox if vitality is sufficient (no detox if you feel too tired). “In addition, certain detoxifying plants present contraindications, requiring prior consultation with a health professional, especially in cases of liver disorders, gallstones, intestinal ulcers or kidney problems, to guarantee a safe and adapted approach to each individual.” If in doubt, seek advice from a pharmacist.