Your liver is in charge of removing toxins from your body, producing bile and performing essential metabolic functions. An overworked liver can cause serious health problems. Follow these Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) tips to cleanse your liver, detoxify your body and feel more energized.
Ginger: This yang (warming food) nourishes blood, improves circulation, and has antibiotic and antibacterial effects that can help your body cleanse toxins and fight pathogens. You can easily add a few slivers of freshly sliced ginger to teas, porridges and soups.
Turmeric: This pungent spice decongests the liver, clears heat from the body, and improves the flow of qi and blood. Add a dash of turmeric to a bowl of soup or a rice dish, or brew it directly to drink. Turmeric powder is also present in many Indian curry recipes.
Dandelion root: A cleansing, detoxifying herb that cools the blood and nourishes the liver. Springtime is the ideal time to drink dandelion tea. Not only are dandelions in flower during this season, but spring is associated with wood, the element of the liver.
Artichokes: Consuming artichokes can help clear liver heat. The plant also contains a compound called cynarin, which promotes bile production and urination.
Magnolia berry (wu wei zi): The magnolia berry has anti-inflammatory properties and is known to nourish and protect the liver. Brew it as a tea and drink a cup per day.
Black beans: Black beans can help to expel excess damp and heat. (They are also said to be beautifying, and have been consumed by Chinese women for centuries for that reason!) To make black bean soup, bring some water to a boil and simmer a handful of black beans. If you like, you can add some goji berries for a bit of sweetness, and to nourish your liver’s yin. You can also roast black beans and eat them as a snack.
Try acupressure: There’s a point on the foot called taichong, which is said to stimulate the liver and encourage digestion. To find it, place your finger on the spot where your big and second toes meet. Then, slide it back an inch or so, until you find the cavity just before where the two toe bones meet. To massage this point, use your thumbs to press the cavity with light to moderate pressure for about three to five minutes.