LIVER By Core Nutritionals Lifeline Overview & Drug Interactions

Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) is a plant belonging to the aster family (Asteraceae). It is native to the Mediterranean region and is widely cultivated in many parts of the world. The plant is known for its milk-white veins on the leaves, which gives it its name. Milk thistle has a long history of use in traditional medicine, and is extremely popular as a dietary supplement, making it one of the most well-known plants in the world. It is purported to have liver-protectant effects and has been used to treat liver disorders such as hepatitis and cirrhosis. It has also been used to treat gallbladder problems and high cholesterol. While there are a number of compounds in milk thistle, one of the active constituents, silymarin, is thought to be responsible for many of its effects, and dietary supplements often report using a standardized amount (generally 70% to 80% silymarin in extracts).

Glutathione is a naturally occurring compound that is composed of three amino acids: cysteine, glutamic acid, and glycine. It is found in nearly all cells in the body and plays a crucial role in many physiological processes, including as an antioxidant defense, detoxification, and immune function. Glutathione levels in the body can be decreased by a number of factors, such as aging, stress, poor diet, and exposure to toxins. Some people take glutathione supplements in the hopes of increasing their levels and potentially benefiting from its antioxidant properties. Glutathione supplements are available in various forms, including oral supplements, intravenous (IV) injections, and nebulized (inhaled) forms. Oral glutathione supplements are often in a liposomal form to improve absorption.

Black pepper is a spice made from the dried, unripe fruit of the Piper nigrum plant, which is native to the southwestern coast of India. It is one of the most widely used spices in the world, and it is often utilized to add flavor and heat to a wide variety of dishes. In traditional medicine, black pepper is purported to have a number of health benefits. It is a good source of antioxidants and is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may make it useful in reducing inflammation and swelling in the body. Black pepper is also used as a natural remedy for digestive problems, such as indigestion and bloating, and to boost the immune system. Black pepper is widely used in dietary supplements, specifically, an extract from black pepper known as piperine. Piperine can affect the absorption of many drugs, which is why it has a large number of reported interactions. Oftentimes, these 'interactions' are purposeful, such as when piperine is used with turmeric, to increase its absorption.