Do Liver Health Supplements Really Work?

Liver health is critical for overall well-being—so it’s no surprise liver support supplements have surged in popularity. With countless different supplements available and numerous claims associated with these products, knowing which to trust can be challenging. 

While a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, adequate hydration, regular exercise, and responsible medication use is critical for preserving your liver’s health, targeted, high-quality supplements may lend extra support for this vital organ. Read on to learn more about current research into the efficacy of various liver supplements and how to choose the right ones for your individual needs. 

What Does the Liver Do?

The liver is one of the body’s most important organs, performing a wide range of functions to maintain health. These include:

• Producing bile: essential for the digestion and absorption of fats
• Amino acid regulation: helps manage protein metabolism
• Detoxification: removes toxins, alcohol, and waste products from the blood
• Drug metabolism: processes medications to make them safe and effective
• Storage: stores essential nutrients like vitamins and minerals, including iron, and glycogen, which is the stored form of glucose

Best Liver Health Supplements

Many supplements are believed to support liver function and mitigate liver-related issues. Below, we’ll discuss some of the most popular liver health supplements and their potential benefits.

Milk Thistle

Milk thistle has been studied extensively for its liver-protective properties. Its active compound, silymarin, is a potent antioxidant that may help:¹

• Protect liver cells from damage caused by toxins
• Promote regeneration of liver tissue
• Reduce inflammation

Milk thistle is especially beneficial for individuals dealing with liver damage caused by alcohol or toxins. Its detoxifying and regenerative properties make it a staple in liver health management. 

You can find milk thistle supplements in the form of extracts and capsules. While milk thistle is generally regarded as safe, it interacts with certain medications. Consult your physician before incorporating it into your wellness routine. 

Jujube

Jujube is renowned for its antioxidant-rich composition, which helps combat oxidative stress and offers liver-protective effects.² Its potential benefits include:

• Supporting liver detoxification processes
• Reducing free radical damage to the liver 

Jujube’s bioactive compounds also help improve digestion and overall energy levels, making it a comprehensive supplement for liver and metabolic health. Jujube is available in capsules that provide a concentrated amount of this beneficial antioxidant. Drowsiness, digestive discomfort, and medication interactions are some of the reported side effects, so always speak with your healthcare provider before incorporating jujube into your routine. 

Beetroot

Beetroot is packed with antioxidants and bioactive substances that contribute to liver health by:

• Preventing the accumulation of fat in the liver
• Supporting the body’s natural detoxification pathways

Beetroot also boosts nitric oxide levels, enhancing blood flow and ensuring the liver receives adequate oxygen and nutrients for optimal functioning. Beetroot supplements come in many different forms, allowing you to choose the method that works best for your lifestyle. Beetroot provides the most benefit when taken consistently. 

Artichoke

Artichoke supplements are valued for their liver-protective properties. Studies suggest artichoke supplementation may:³

• Help reduce the markers for liver disease
• Improve bile production and digestion

Artichoke extract is rich in cynarin and luteolin, compounds with anti-inflammatory and cholesterol-lowering effects. While fresh artichokes are loaded with nutrients, including antioxidants, you’ll get a more concentrated dose of liver health nutrients by taking a supplement—and without the butter sauce that traditionally accompanies cooked artichokes! 

Dandelion

Dandelion has been used to support liver health for centuries in traditional medicine. Recent research highlights its ability to:⁴

• Protect liver cells from damage
• Promote bile flow to aid digestion and detoxification

Rich in polysaccharides, dandelion root also helps reduce stress on the liver and supports its natural filtering processes. Dandelion is available as a supplement in various forms, including capsules, extracts, or as a tea. Dandelion tea is one of the more popular ways to consume this plant. While some use it as a caffeine-free alternative to coffee, dandelion tea possesses the same liver benefits as traditional capsules.  

Chanca Piedra

Known as the “stone breaker,” chanca piedra contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that may help:

• Protect liver tissues
• Assist in reducing liver inflammation

Chanca piedra is also known for its ability to prevent the formation of liver and kidney stones, making it a dual-purpose supplement for detoxification.⁵ Its antioxidant content helps protect liver tissue from cellular damage and may aid in the treatment of inflammatory conditions like hepatitis B.⁶ 

Consult your healthcare team before taking a chanca piedra supplement. Side effects like nausea, abdominal pain, and painful urination have been reported. And chanca piedra may interact with some blood pressure and blood sugar-lowering medications. 

Who Needs to Take Liver Supplements?

Liver supplements aren’t for everyone. While individuals with no underlying liver issues may benefit from liver health supplements, they may be especially helpful for those with the following circumstances:

• Individuals with fatty liver disease or other liver conditions
• People exposed to high levels of environmental toxins or alcohol
• Those taking medications that may strain the liver

Remember, speaking with your healthcare provider is essential before starting any new supplements. 

Side Effects and Dangers

While generally considered safe, liver supplements can cause mild to serious side effects such as:

• Allergic reactions
• Digestive upset, including diarrhea or nausea
• Potential interactions with medications, such as blood thinners

In rare cases, using liver supplements without guidance could have serious health implications, including organ system damage. It is essential to consult your healthcare team before starting new supplements to be sure they are safe for you and won’t interact with any medications you currently take. 

Using Liver Supplements

Your liver is essential for life and health. A liver-friendly lifestyle that incorporates a balanced diet limited in fatty meat and added sugars, regular exercise, proper hydration, limited alcohol consumption, and responsible use of medications is essential for maintaining the health of this vital organ. In addition to healthy lifestyle choices, liver health supplements can be a valuable addition to your wellness journey, benefitting those who want extra support for their liver.

When considering adding liver support supplements to your regimen, be sure to understand the supplements’ benefits and risks and follow dosage instructions for the best results. While most liver support supplements are generally safe to use, some can cause side effects and interact with certain medications. Always speak with your healthcare provider before taking any new supplements to ensure they are safe for you.   

References:

1. Surai PF. Silymarin as a Natural Antioxidant: An Overview of the Current Evidence and Perspectives. Antioxidants. 2015;4(1):204. 
2. Tedyanto CP, Wihanto L, Hendrata AP. Hepatoprotective Effect of Dried Red Jujube Fruit Extract Against Acetaminophen-Induced Acute Hepatotoxicity. Cureus. 2023;15(1):e33272. 
3. Amini MR, Sheikhhossein F, Talebyan A, Bazshahi E, Djafari F, Hekmatdoost A. Effects of Artichoke Supplementation on Liver Enzymes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Clin Nutr Res. 2022;11(3):228. 
4. Pfingstgraf IO, Taulescu M, Pop RM, et al. Protective Effects of Taraxacum officinale L. (Dandelion) Root Extract in Experimental Acute on Chronic Liver Failure. Antioxidants. 2021;10(4):504. 
5. Stern KL, Canvasser N, Borofsky M, et al. Alkalinizing Agents: A Review of Prescription, Over-the-Counter, and Medical Food Supplements. J Endourol. 2020;34(1):1-6. 
6. Lee NYS, Khoo WKS, Adnan MA, Mahalingam TP, Fernandez AR, Jeevaratnam K. The pharmacological potential of Phyllanthus niruri. J Pharm Pharmacol. 2016;68(8):953-969.