Liver Essentials By Bronson 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).

Choline is an essential nutrient that is found in many foods, including eggs, and is important for a number of bodily functions, including liver function, brain development, and nerve function. Choline is a precursor to acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in memory, mood, and muscle control. Choline also helps to transport fats out of the liver, which may help to reduce the risk of liver disease. Choline supplements are available in different forms, including choline bitartrate, choline chloride, and phosphatidylcholine. Choline bitartrate is the most common form of choline supplement, but phosphatidylcholine is the form that is found naturally in foods.

Methionine is an essential amino acid, meaning it must be obtained through the diet since the body cannot produce it on its own. It plays a crucial role in protein synthesis and various metabolic processes. Methionine is commonly found in protein-rich foods like meat, fish, dairy products, and certain plant-based sources, making it an important component of a balanced diet to support overall health and proper bodily functions.

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is a naturally occurring compound that is made by the body and is also found in some foods, such as spinach, broccoli, and potatoes. It plays a role in energy production in the body and acts as an antioxidant, helping to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. ALA has been studied for its potential health benefits, including the treatment of certain types of nerve damage, diabetes, and liver disease.

Licorice, also known as glycyrrhiza, is a plant native to parts of Europe, Asia, and the Mediterranean region. The root of the plant has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and is often consumed in the form of candy, tea, and supplements. Licorice has a number of purported health benefits, including the ability to soothe sore throats, reduce inflammation, and improve digestive problems. It may also have antiviral and antibacterial properties. Licorice naturally contains glycyrrhizin, or glycyrrhizic acid, which can have toxic effects if consumed in large amounts. However, licorice can be processed to remove glycyrrhizin, resulting in DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice). Many dietary supplements that contain deglycyrrhizinated licorice are often simply named 'DGL'.

Green tea is a type of tea that is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. It is native to Asia and is widely consumed throughout the world. Green tea has a mild, slightly grassy flavor and is typically lighter in color and less astringent than black tea. Green tea is a rich source of antioxidants, particularly a group of compounds called catechins. These antioxidants are thought to help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Green tea is also a good source of other nutrients, including vitamin C and several B vitamins. Green tea is often consumed for a number of purported health benefits including reducing the risk of heart disease, immune-stimulating effects, and weight loss. Oral green tea supplements, containing dried powder, are most often utilized for the caffeine content and used as an appetite suppressant for weight loss.