The liver is responsible for renewing and revitalizing the human body. It is a complex organ that serves as the body's major blood reservoir, filtering out toxins at a rate of one quart of blood per minute. The liver manufactures bile that digests fats and prevents constipation, metabolizes proteins and carbohydrates, and secretes important hormones and enzymes.

In today's society, liver congestion is a common problem. There are many causes including pollution, alcohol abuse, drug abuse, poor diet, preservatives, artificial sweeteners, overeating, stress, hepatitis, inactive lifestyle, and long term use of antibiotics and tranquilizers.

Most Americans have unhealthy livers due to the constant assault of toxins from food and water supplies. Thank God the liver can rejuvenate itself and continues to function even when eighty percent of its cells are damaged.

Symptoms of poor liver function include a tendency for constipation, alternating with diarrhea, a sluggish system, abdominal bloating, menstrual disorders, itchy palms, unexplained skin irritations, bags under the eyes, inflamed eyes, depression, anemia, unexplained weight gain, poor digestion, food allergies, nausea, dizziness, dry tongue, jaundiced skin, and liver spots.

A healthy liver depends on a healthy diet and exercise. Low fat foods with high fiber, lots of vegetables, plenty of fresh fruits, potassium rich foods like greens, enzyme rich foods like yogurt, and sulfur rich foods like onions and garlic will help ensure a healthy liver. The liver also needs lots of oxygen so daily exercise and fresh, clean air are essential.

There are two north Georgia plants that are especially suited for treating liver ailments. Golden seal (yellow root) and dandelion make a powerful blend that restores liver function, promotes bile flow, and acts like a gentle laxative.

The Cherokee Indians and early settlers prepared “yeller root and dandelion spring tonic” for ridding the body of the “winter blues.” This strong tea was known to boost energy and improve overall health.

Other herbs that improve liver function (and gallbladder health) are milk thistle seed, turmeric, chamomile, cardamom, burdock root, vervain, barberry, licorice, barley grass, ginger, ginkgo biloba, garlic, yellow dock, ginseng, alfalfa, astragalus, evening primrose, and fennel seed.

Sometimes the liver needs to be detoxified. A three day detoxification process is recommended for anyone that wants to experience better health. Start off each morning with a large glass of water and lemon juice. Throughout the day, drink herbal teas, green drinks, vegetable juices, and snack on fresh fruits. Fresh veggies (especially organic artichokes), bean sprouts, tofu, whole grains, wheat germ, brewer's yeast, and a lecithin capsule should be consumed at meal time. Cut out sugar, meat, dairy products, all forms of tobacco, and alcohol during the liver cleanse

A healthy liver boosts immunity, neutralizes and destroys poisons, cleans the blood, discharges wastes, metabolizes fats and cholesterol, stores red blood cells, aids digestion, maintains hormonal balance, and regenerates its own damaged tissues. Who could ask it to do more?

* Always consult with a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedy.