Liver detoxification should be a part of any body cleanse regimen because of the important tasks that the organ performs. The liver is responsible for the detoxification of many biochemical compounds excreted by the body in stools and urine and for processing different types of proteins used in the body.

However, toxins that can damage and even destroy the cells of the liver are byproducts of this process. A liver flush helps to wash away the accumulation of these poisons. In this article, we'll examine various methods of liver detoxification to see if they're right for you.

In a healthy body and a clean environment, the liver can look after itself by cleansing away toxins and regenerating damaged cells. Unfortunately, many individuals must use medications, such as acetaminophen, which are toxic to this organ.

Environmental pollutants, cigarette smoke, large quantities of alcohol and high fat food all put stress on the liver. Many advocates of the liver flush and alternative detoxification cleansing programs believe that these can prevent cancer by preventing toxins from building up. Some even believe that cancer can be reversed. However, there is no documented medical evidence to support that theory.

A liver flush involves eating or drinking a combination of juices and oils, often with selected herbs, enzymes, and other components. However, the flush formulas vary widely from practitioner to practitioner. Most liver cleanse regimens are done over the course of two or more days and result in several bowel movements.

Practitioners often recommend doing them once or twice a year. The herbal combination provides antioxidants and increases blood flow to the liver to help wash away the build-up of stagnant material.

Well known western herbs like Milk Thistle, Burdock and Dandelion, plus the lesser known Chinese herbs, Fructus Lycii chinensis, Gardenia jasminoidis, Polygonum multiflorum (Fo Ti) and Artemisia capillaris are often used. Practitioners also recommend drinking lots of apple or vegetable juice two to three days before beginning a flush. The malic acid found in the apple juice dissolves and softens gallstones and increases the program's effectiveness.

While some practitioners believe deeply in the health value of a liver cleansing, there is no recognized medical evidence to confirm its effectiveness. A flush can also produce uncomfortable side effects like nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

Oily or fatty components of liver flushes may cause the gallbladder to contract, which could lead to problems in people with gallstones, since they could get stuck in the bile duct. You should consult your doctor before beginning any cleansing and detoxification program.

A liver flush can be a helpful tool in your healthcare regimen. A healthy liver can clean away toxins but sometimes it needs help. Liver detoxification can help clean and restore itself and it can be done without undergoing any painful side effects. A few days is all it takes to keep this essential organ functioning properly.