What It Is and How to (Really) Do Them

I’ve received numerous inquiries over the years regarding how to perform a liver cleanse. In today’s toxin-laden environment, our liver & gallbladder are constantly under stress. Here’s a natural way to support your liver and conduct a cleanse (although it might not be what you expect!).

What Is a Liver Cleanse?

There are various natural remedies suggested to aid with gallbladder stones and liver cleansing. One popular method involves a high-fat drink containing olive oil, lemon juice or grapefruit juice, and Epsom salts (magnesium sulfate).

The liver detox process typically starts with consuming apples or apple juice for several days. This is followed by drinking Epsom salts in water, then consuming large amounts of olive oil and citrus. The individual then lies on their right side (some sources suggest left) and allows the laxatives to take effect.

The goal of this cleanse is to build up bile in the gallbladder and then increase bile flow rapidly. This gallbladder flush is believed to release gallstones that contribute to gallbladder issues. But does it really deliver results?

Firstly, let’s examine the functioning of our liver and gallbladders.

Liver and Gallbladder Anatomy 101

Our liver plays a crucial role in assisting our body with detoxification. Among its many functions, the liver:

• Regulates chemicals in the blood
• Converts glucose into storable form (glycogen)
• Regulates amino acids in the blood, which are essential for protein building
• Produces cholesterol
• Produces bile
• Stores iron
• Manages blood clotting
• Processes hormones
• Aids in clearing bilirubin from red blood cells

In total, the liver performs over 500 daily functions critical for our survival. It produces bile, which is then transported and stored in the gallbladder. When we consume fats, the gallbladder releases some bile salts into our small intestine to aid in fat and vitamin digestion and waste elimination.

Gallbladder Health

Most of us don’t think about our gallbladder until it starts causing issues. Some individuals are at risk of developing gallstones, which can lead to pain (including abdominal pain), nausea, and vomiting, particularly after meals. Women are twice as likely as men to develop gallstones.

Fortunately, more than two-thirds of individuals with gallstones do not experience negative symptoms. Pregnant women, diabetics, and those undergoing rapid weight loss are at higher risk. The main concern arises when gallstones travel into and obstruct the common bile duct, a small tube connecting the liver, gallbladder, and small intestine. Blockage of this duct to the pancreas can have fatal consequences.

Conventional medicine’s only remedy for these attacks is gallbladder removal surgery. Given its importance in the digestive process, I prefer to preserve mine if feasible!

Show Your Liver Some Love

With its vital functions, it’s essential to support our liver and gallbladder. Opinions on liver cleanses vary. Some argue that our livers are naturally equipped for detoxification and do not require external intervention. On the other hand, some wellness experts advocate for harsh or drastic cleansing methods to facilitate the process.

The question remains: do liver cleanses actually work, and what is the most effective approach?

Do Liver Cleanses Work?

As mentioned earlier, one common liver cleanse example was provided. Other popular options include liver detox supplements and pills.

There is anecdotal evidence suggesting that a gallbladder flush may reduce the number of gallstones. Additionally, fasting and consuming high doses of laxatives during this process can help clear out the digestive system, alleviating bloating, constipation, and promoting bowel movements.

Many individuals have reported improvements in gallbladder function and pain following a cleanse, while others have experienced side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, serious gallbladder issues requiring surgery have been reported after such cleanses. While some individuals swear by these methods, there is limited scientific research to support their efficacy.

The concept likely originated from a 1999 opinion letter published in The Lancet medical journal. A chemical engineer described how his wife consumed apple juice and olive oil, subsequently passing soft, brown “stones” in her stool the next day.

Individuals undergoing this cleanse often pass green chunks in their stool. However, these green chunks are likely not gallstones.

A Different Way to Make Soap

Subsequent studies have analyzed the “gallstones” passed during a gallbladder cleanse in detail. Real gallstones consist of various materials, including undissolved cholesterol, bilirubin, and cholesterol.

Studies have shown that the “stones” passed during a liver cleanse do not contain these materials but instead consist of fatty acids and potassium carboxylates. In essence, the combination of olive oil and citrus juice in the body produces soap. While this may result in an impressive bowel movement, it may not offer significant benefits for the liver.

The Best Way to Do a Liver Cleanse

While not as glamorous, the most effective way to support our liver and gallbladder is through consistent, healthy habits. Given the prevalence of toxins in our environment, our bodies can become overwhelmed. This is why I engage in practices like detox baths and armpit detoxes.

Minimizing toxin exposure where possible and aiding our natural detoxification processes can have a significant impact. There are numerous ways to show our livers (and gallbladders) some extra care.

Feed Your Liver

As with most health concerns, it all starts with the food we consume. The liver is one of the few organs capable of regeneration. By providing our bodies with superior building materials, we can maintain healthier organs.

Surprisingly, coffee can contribute to liver health. It can lower liver enzymes and reduce inflammation. While I enjoy a modest amount of coffee several times a week, it’s essential not to overdo it. Green tea, with less caffeine, also offers liver-boosting benefits.

Amino acids are vital for our livers to produce proteins. Grass-fed meats, pasture-raised chicken, and grass-fed dairy (if well-tolerated) are excellent protein sources. Occasionally, we may require an additional amino acid boost, which is why I incorporate this amino acid supplement.

Here are some additional foods to support your liver:

• Dark leafy greens and vitamin K-rich foods to aid in blood clotting
• Foods that promote glutathione production for detoxification, such as cruciferous vegetables, kale, watercress, and onions
• Antioxidant-rich foods like berries (cranberries, blueberries, etc.) to reduce inflammation
• Fruits, vegetables, and occasional healthy grains for fiber to maintain regularity
• Incorporate healthy fats to signal the body to release bile, preventing gallbladder buildup. However, if you have or suspect pancreatitis or a gallbladder blockage, fats can exacerbate issues during this period.

Coffee Enemas

Earlier, I mentioned the potential liver benefits of consuming coffee. It appears that coffee can also enhance liver function through another method. Coffee enemas stimulate the liver to release bile and flush out toxins. They also soften the stool, making it easier to eliminate toxins. Additionally, they help prevent the accumulation and recirculation of toxins in the body.

Learn more about coffee enemas and how to perform them.

Herbs for Liver Cleansing

While there may not be a magical solution, numerous herbs can support the liver and gallbladder. These herbs are typically categorized into several groups:

• Cholagogues – Aid in contracting the gallbladder to increase bile flow into the intestines
• Choleretic herbs – Stimulate the liver to boost bile production
• Nutritive herbs – These herbs are commonly used in cooking and tea as nutrient-dense options to support bodily functions. Examples include nettle, dandelion, and red raspberry leaf.

A Word of Caution

Most medical advice agrees that herbal remedies may exacerbate issues if you have gallstones obstructing ducts. If you experience any of the following symptoms, you might have pancreatitis or a bile duct blockage:

• Sudden abdominal pain
• Chills
• Fever
• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Pain radiating to the shoulder or chest
• Pain in the right shoulder or between shoulder blades

These symptoms are not exhaustive. If you suspect a gallstone blockage, consult your physician or visit a local hospital. Gallstone pancreatitis can be fatal if left untreated, and other complications may arise from severe gallstone issues.

However, if you have gallbladder sludge or are at risk for stones and seek to facilitate movement, here are some natural remedies. Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional, so consult with your healthcare provider before initiating any new regimen.

Milk Thistle

Milk thistle has been utilized for liver support for centuries. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, it is employed to reduce liver inflammation, strengthen and tone the organ. It aids in fat digestion, toxin flushing, and supports bile flow to the gallbladder, benefiting digestion, blood sugar regulation, and constipation.

This herb can help shield the liver from toxin-induced damage. It is commonly paired with dandelion root, turmeric, and artichoke leaf for liver detoxification.

You can find milk thistle tinctures or herbs for tea consumption. Many individuals opt for standardized capsules, which contain a concentrated form of the active ingredient, silymarin. It should be used with caution by individuals on insulin or similar medications.

Dandelion

I incorporate dandelion leaf in recipes such as Bieler’s broth and iced lime and dandelion tea. Despite being a common lawn nuisance, this unassuming herb boasts impressive benefits. As a bitter herb, it aids in stimulating digestion, bile production, and enzyme activity. Dandelion root is also a choleretic, supporting fat digestion and alleviating liver and gallbladder inflammation and congestion.

Consuming dandelion root tea is an effective way to give your liver a boost. According to Germany’s Commission E, some precautions should be observed. Avoid dandelion if you have blocked bile ducts, a pus-filled gallbladder (rare), or if gallstones are stuck in the small intestine.

Dandelion is a nutritive herb generally considered safe for most individuals. Learn more about dandelion root and its uses here.

Artichoke Leaf

Yes, the same leaves attached to those delectable artichoke hearts. Artichoke leaf has a rich history of liver and gallbladder support. A 1994 study demonstrated its ability to enhance bile flow. Both animal and human studies have shown its efficacy in protecting against liver damage. By stimulating bile production, it aids in digestion, constipation, and liver health.

Although rare, it can trigger allergic reactions in some individuals, but it is generally safe. Artichoke leaf is not recommended for those with blocked bile ducts or liver disease. You can consume it in the form of a tincture, tea, or capsules.

Oregon Grape Root

Another bitter herb, Oregon grape root assists in stimulating liver function and increasing bile flow. It also helps normalize liver enzymes and reduce inflammation. Herbalist Michael Tierra suggests combining it with dandelion and fennel for gallstone relief. However, it is not suitable for individuals with a blocked gallbladder or hyperthyroidism.

You can consume Oregon grape root as a tea, tincture, or capsule. Due to the risk of endangerment, it is advisable to obtain it from cultivated sources.

There are numerous other herbs that can aid in liver and gallstone support, including yellow dock, barberry, helichrysum, and turmeric. Conduct thorough research to determine which herbs are most suitable for your unique circumstances.