Access Denied
IMPORTANT! If you’re a store owner, please make sure you have Customer accounts enabled in your Store Admin, as you have customer based locks set up with EasyLockdown app. Enable Customer Accounts
Liver Health: Herbal Allies & Alcohol Replacements
In today’s fast-paced world, our livers are working harder than ever. Whether it’s processing environmental toxins, medications, or the occasional glass of wine, this vital organ plays a central role in detoxification, hormone balance, and overall vitality. As an herbalist, I often work with people seeking to support their liver health—especially during times of intentional reset, like Dry July or post-holiday detoxes. The truth is, whether you’re doing Dry July or not, it’s always beneficial to support the liver as it is crucial to overall wellbeing.
But liver health isn’t just about detoxing. It’s also deeply connected to our emotional wellbeing. In traditional systems of medicine, the liver is linked to emotional regulation, stress response, and energetic flow. If you’re looking to support your liver health taking a dual approach can be helpful i.e. support both the liver and the nervous system.
Herbal Allies for the Liver
Schisandra
Schisandra chinensis
Schisandra
Known as the “five-flavour berry”, Schisandra has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries. It’s considered an adaptogen, meaning it helps the body adapt to stress, but it’s also a powerful hepatoprotective herb. Research shows Schisandra can improve liver enzyme levels, protect liver cells from damage, and enhance detoxification pathways via upregulation of phase I and II liver enzymes.
Schisandra is also uplifting and energising, making it a great choice when you’re cutting back on alcohol and need a little boost without the crash.
Dandelion
Taraxacum offinaleDandelion Root
Dandelion root is a classic bitter that stimulates digestion, bile flow, and liver detoxification. It gently supports the liver’s elimination of waste products while also aiding the digestive system; both essential when the liver is under strain.
I love using dandelion in tea or tincture form, particularly as part of a daily ritual. Its earthy flavour reminds us to slow down and reconnect with our bodies. It also makes a great coffee replacement!
Milk Thistle
Silybum marianumMilk Thistle
Also known as St Mary's Thistle, this is perhaps the most researched liver herb. Its active compound, silymarin, helps to regenerate liver cells, reduce inflammation, and protect against oxidative stress. It's commonly used to support liver function in cases of toxin exposure, medication use, or long-term alcohol consumption.
This herb is safe for longer-term use and is particularly helpful for people recovering from liver overload or wanting to give their liver some daily TLC.
Herbal Support for the Nervous System: Alternatives to Alcohol
As many people look for ways to wind down without alcohol, herbs that support the nervous system (nervines) can be incredibly helpful. These herbs soothe stress, support mood balance, and help us relax—without compromising liver health.
Kava
Piper methysticum
Kava
Kava is a powerful herb traditionally used in Pacific Island ceremonies to promote calm and social connection. It works by enhancing GABA activity in the brain, resulting in deep relaxation without impairing mental clarity.
Kava can be a great substitute for the ritual of evening alcohol, but it should be used mindfully and not in combination with alcohol or medications.
Passionflower
Passiflora incarnataPassionflower
This gentle yet effective herb is wonderful for calming a racing mind, easing anxiety, and supporting restful sleep. Passionflower is particularly useful if your alcohol use is linked to stress or trouble switching off at night.
It pairs beautifully with other nervines such as Chamomile, Oat Straw and Damiana and can be taken as a tea or tincture.
Damiana
Turnera diffusaPassionflower
This gentle yet effective herb is wonderful for calming a racing mind, easing anxiety, and supporting restful sleep. Passionflower is particularly useful if your alcohol use is linked to stress or trouble switching off at night.
It pairs beautifully with other nervines such as Chamomile, Oat Straw and Damiana and can be taken as a tea or tincture.
Damiana
Damiana is a warming, mood-lifting herb with mild euphoric properties. Traditionally used as an aphrodisiac and to lift the spirits, it can help replace the social or sensual aspects of alcohol use.
It blends beautifully in herbal mocktails or tea blends designed for evening relaxation.
Supporting liver health goes beyond green juices and detox diets—it’s about nourishing our bodies, calming our minds, and creating rituals that serve us. As a herbalist, I see incredible results when herbs are used consistently, intentionally, and in harmony with lifestyle choices.
Whether you're looking to give your liver some love or create a more mindful wind-down routine, these herbal allies can offer gentle yet powerful support.
Always speak to a qualified practitioner before starting new herbal remedies—especially if you’re on medication or have existing health conditions.
Invalid password
Enter
