The liver is one of the vital organs of the body. It provides protection by neutralizing the harmful toxins produced by the body (bilirubin, ammonia) or ingested (alcohol, drugs). The liver is a filtration and detoxification factory of our body. The liver also produces clotting factors and albumin a protein vital for our blood. It also helps in digestion by producing bile. The liver takes up many types of vitamins and minerals from the blood and stores them. A healthy liver ensures a healthy body. Now we know chemicals found in common households like perfumes and cleaning goods are more toxic than previously thought. Good health is not a simple matter of eating healthy and exercising. The study, published in the journal Mayo Clinic Proceedings, shows that seven out of 10 Americans take at least one prescription drug. The blood is transported to the liver via the portal vein, which carries multiple toxic substances including ethanol (Et-OH), drugs, pharmaceutical toxins Our liver is in a constant fight to keep us healthy preventing us from the external or internal toxins.
As we know how important is liver for us, are we doing enough to keep our liver healthy? There is no doubt that a healthy diet and exercise is good for our liver, is it enough? I came across with a natural herb which can help our liver to fight efficiently. The Silybum marianum is commonly known as milk thistle. Silybum marianum is mainly found on high fertility soils. Silybum marianum (the botanical name for milk thistle) is native to the Mediterranean region of Europe. Despite milk thistle's long history of being used to treat liver and biliary problems, it was not until 1968 that silymarin was isolated from the seeds of the plant. Silymarin contains at least seven flavoligands and flavonoid Taxifolin. The hepatoprotective and antioxidant activity of silymarin is caused by its ability to inhibit the free radicals that are produced from the metabolism of toxic substances. When a free radical cannot be destroyed, their accumulation in the body generates a phenomenon called oxidative stress. This process plays a vital part in the development of chronic illness such as cancer, autoimmune disorders, aging, cataract, rheumatoid arthritis, cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. Silymarin enhances hepatic glutathione and contributes to the antioxidant defense of the liver.
Glutathione (GSH) is often referred to as the body's master antioxidant. Composted of three amino acids
