Imagine an herb that has been used for thousands of years for treating liver disorders-an herb supported by an increasing body of scientific evidence, none of which demonstrates any serious side effect. Known in India as kutki, Picrorrhiza kurroa is just such an herb, and it is growing in popularity in the United States as Ayurveda finds an increasing following in this country. (Ayurveda is the traditional healing system of India that seeks to stabilize individual imbalances through the use of diet, herbs, aromas, meditation, and yoga, along with other therapies for addressing health issues.)
A remarkable herb for liver health, this perennial plant grows in India at between 9,000 and 15,000 feet. It is collected from the Himalayan Mountains.
Liver Support
Known primarily for its ability to protect and heal your liver, kutki is used by Ayurvedic doctors to treat a wide variety of conditions, including hepatitis and jaundice. Published reports on this herb date back to the 1960s. Early studies find kutki to be beneficial in the treatment of jaundice while producing no side effects.
Recent studies performed over the past decade verify earlier results for many of the traditional uses of this herb.Researchers report that kutki protects the liver against alcohol-induced injury. One double-blind study found Picrorrhiza kurroa effective in the treatment of viral hepatitis. Kutki has a long tradition of use in a manner similar to gentian (Gentiana lutea) and Indian gentian (Gentian kurroa). In fact, because of this similarity, it is sometimes mistakenly referred to as Indian gentian.
A common traditional formulation of herbs and minerals with a high concentration of Picrorrhiza kurroa is called Arogyavardhini. This combination has been found to significantly reduce two important blood markers of liver dysfunction in animals with simulated viral hepatitis.
Additional Benefits
Ayurvedic practitioners recognize Picrorrhiza kurroa as a strong, bitter-tasting herb with a cooling effect on the body. In addition to its healing potential for the liver, it purifies blood, destroys intestinal worms, works as a laxative, and is useful for helping to normalize body temperature. Frequently, picrorrhiza has been reported to be beneficial in cases of asthma. In addition, as is true of many strongly bitter herbs, it is reputed to reduce blood sugar levels and may benefit people with diabetes.
Dosage
Based on my own clinical experience, patients desiring liver support should begin with a dose of 300 to 500 mg taken twice daily for a week, while being watchful for any undesirable side effects. Side effects are rare but can include loose stools and gas, usually occurring when the herb is taken in higher doses.
Long-term side effects may lead to weight loss and, although beneficial if you are overweight, should be observed closely if weight reduction is too great in those already weakened by liver disease. If no undesirable side effects are noted, the dose can be increased to 1.5 grams, three times per day.
For liver or gallbladder disease, kutki may be taken for several months under the supervision of a healthcare practitioner. A steady improvement should occur on a monthly basis. Complete care for any disease of the body involves more than taking medicine-herbal or allopathic.
According to Ayurvedic principles, healing is accelerated when lifestyle is improved. This includes optimizing diet, sleeping well (and long enough), and reducing stress. For complete treatment of any disease condition, it is best to work with an experienced Ayurvedic healthcare practitioner who consults with your primary medical practitioner.
Dravyaguna Vijnana Vol II by Gyanendra Pandey (Krishnas Academy, 2002) "Herbal medicines for liver diseases in India" by S. Thyagarajan et al., J Gastroenterol Hepatol, 12/02 Major Herbs of Ayurveda compiled by Dabur Research Foundation and Dabur Ayurvet Limited ($69.95, Churchill Livingstone, 2002) "Use of herbal supplements for chronic liver disease" by C. Levy et al., Clinical Gastroentereol and Hepatol, 11/04
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