Liver
Function - The liver has at least three primary functions. 1) The main function is to act as a filter for the blood, helping to remove toxins on a regular basis. In its filtration capacity, it can help break down potentially deadly toxins that have been absorbed or ingested into the body. Once broken down, they can then be flushed out of the liver and eliminated. In this regard, the liver is constantly tasked to remove those things found in our food, water, and the air we breathe. Due to the nature of how these toxins are trapped and broken down to render them less harmful, the liver requires constant nourishment along with a regular program of detoxification of its own. Milk Thistle has been found to be one of the most important herbs to accomplish this function.
2) The liver is also a manufacturing organ. From the foods we eat, it produces additional by-products, enzymes, hormones, and glucose. In order to accomplish this, one of the main nutrients the liver requires is an ample supply of protein. The best protein source comes from vegetables, which have a high protein efficiency ratio.
3) The liver also stores vitamins A, D, E, and K to be used on demand by the body.
The liver manufactures the largest supply of metabolic enzymes to help run the body. These enzymes are responsible for normal body maintenance. In times of stress or other situations where the body needs extra reserves, the demand for additional enzymes places a strain on the system. By properly feeding the liver, this important organ can then provide additional nutrients and enzymes to other organs such as the pancreas.
As a hormone manufacturing facility, the liver provides both the raw materials as well as some finished products. A primary function is to increase the secretion and flow of bile. Beginning as cholesterol, a tremendous quantity of the body's regulating hormones start in the liver and then pass through the gallbladder.
Finally, the liver uses protein to manufacture glucose. Glucose is the major energy source for both the body and the brain. An interesting fact about the body is that the brain can uptake glucose directly, as the brain cells are normally permeable to glucose without the intermediation of insulin.
By eating the right foods, drinking pure water, and using Milk Thistle on a routine basis, we can see that this vital organ is well taken care of.