The liver plays an important role as an "factory" in filtering and removing toxins from the body, but modern life with a diet rich in fat, sugar and alcohol makes the liver overloaded. Given that reality, some plant roots are recommended by doctors and nutritionists in the US as a natural solution to support liver function, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine.
According to Dr. Sherman Raisen from Parsley Health (USA), dandelion root is a top choice because it contains polyphenols and flavonoids, which help promote the activity of liver detoxification enzymes. A study published in the medical journal Advanced Pharmaceutical Bulletin (USA) in 2020 also showed that dried worm root has a significant reduction in liver enzymes such as ALT and AST, supporting inflammation reduction and preventing liver damage caused by alcohol.
Meanwhile, burdock root - a plant used by Westerners for hundreds of years - stands out for its anti-inflammatory and removes toxins from the blood. A study from ResearchGate confirmed that the extract from bendon helps improve liver and kidney function, while also helping the body eliminate toxins more effectively.
Besides dried frog and celestial worm, the root of the Milk thistle is also a familiar choice in the US. The active ingredient silymarin in star apple root has the effect of restoring damaged liver cells, especially in cases of hepatitis or chronic liver damage, says Dr. Paul Y. Kwo from the University of Stanford.
However, experts also recommend that not all herbs are absolutely safe. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, some liver detox products on the market today are not strictly regulated by the FDA and lack sufficient scientific evidence. Expert Gretchen lidicker from Parsley Health recommends that, for high efficiency and safety, users should combine the use of herbal roots with a balanced diet, drink plenty of water and maintain regular exercise.