UMN Liver Support

UMN Liver Support is a flavonoid-rich complex designed specifically for detoxifying the liver and gall bladder and supporting their functions. Recommended for those who: consume alcohol or tobacco products, are exposed to environmental toxins, have been using medications/drugs, are overweight, or have a history of liver or gall bladder problems.

Propriety Blend  420 mg

1. Description & Features
2. Naturally Occurring Bioflavonoids
3. Benefits, Safety, Physiology & Uses (Artichoke & Sarsaparilla)
4. Clinical Indications
5. Scientific Research
6. Artichoke References
7. Sarsaparilla References
8. ORACFL Values of the “UMN Liver Support”
9. Reversing Liver Damage
10. Double-Blind Study “UMN Liver Support” & Placebo (Alcohol Related Liver Disease)

DESCRIPTION

The artichoke bud / sarsaparilla extract is an entirely unique complex of phytochemicals extracted from the bud of a hybrid artichoke plant (Cynara floridanum) and the root of the sarsaparilla plant (Smilax officinalis).

The proprietary extraction process uses a method in which all plant materials are first combined, macerated, and put into a distilled water / ethanol solvent. This allows the plant materials to interact within the solvent resulting in an exceptional, health-providing formulation of polyphenols and flavonoids.

FEATURES

· Artichoke bud / sarsaparilla extract has been created by combining materials from two plants that have been historically used as liver regenerative, detoxifying, and blood-purifying agents.

· Artichoke bud / sarsaparilla extract is a complex of liver-supportive, detoxifying phytonutrients that are extracted using a proprietary, two-step method. It is unlike anything in the marketplace today. Partial analysis has revealed a quite extraordinary complex of flavonoids, including quercetin, rutin, - (+) catechin, hesperidin, kaempferol, isorhamnetin, cynarin, silymarin, caffeic acid, and chlorogenic acid. Phytosterols, including ß-sitosterol, campesterol, and stigmasterol, have also been detected.

The UMN Liver Support formula is a proprietary blend of Artichoke (Cynara Floridanum)/Sarsaparilla (Smilax Aristolchiaefolia) contains the following naturally occurring bioflavonoids (1-6) and chlorogenic acid:

1. silymarin
2. quercetin
3. catechin
4. hesperidin
5. rutin
6. cynarin and
7. chlorogenic acid

Bioflavonoids are a class of water-soluble plant pigments (colors) that have anti-inflammatory, antihistaminic and antiviral properties.

Naturally occurring bioflavonoids found in the Artichoke/Sarsaparilla extract:

1. Silymarin
Numerous clinical studies have shown silymarin to be among the most powerful natural agents available for the prevention and treatment of liver damage caused by exposure to human-made chemicals, including alcohol-induced liver degeneration and cirrhosis.

References:

Wagner, H., 'Antihepatotoxic flavonoids' in Cody, V., Middleton, E. and Harbourne, J.B., (eds.) Plant Flavonoids in Biology and Medicine: Biochemical, Pharmacological, and Structure-Activity Relationships, Alan R. Liss, New York, NY, 1986, pp.545-58.

Salmi, H.A. and Sarna, S., 'Effect of Silymarin on chemical, functional, and morphological alteration of the liver. A double-blind controlled study', Scand. J. Gastroentrol., 1982, 17, pp. 417-21.

Boari, C., Montanari, M., Galleti, G.P., et al., 'Occupational toxic liver diseases. Therapeutic effects of silymarin', Life Sci., 1981, 29, pp. 2,751-5

Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine, Michael T. Murray, N.D., and Joseph Pizzorno, N.D., Prima Publishing, 1991, Page 124

2. Quercetin
Quercetin, a bioflavonoid with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties, has been shown useful in the treatment of inflammation, high cholesterol, fatty-plaque formation in the arteries (atherosclerosis), diabetes and peptic ulcer. In experimental studies, quercetin is found to be the most active flavonoid.

Quercetin inhibits several of the initial processes of inflammation, thus it has an anti-inflammatory effect. Quercetin has demonstrated its ability to inhibit the release of inflammatory chemicals from mast cells sensitized by food allergies and to inhibit irritability of the muscles of the intestines. This effect makes it beneficial in relation to food allergies. It exerts antioxidant and vitamin C-sparing activity. It also enhances insulin secretion, protects pancreatic beta-cells from free radical damage and inhibits platelet aggregation. Animal studies demonstrate quercetin's anti-tumor activity against cancers, including colon and rectal cancer.

References:

Middleton, E., The flavonoids. Trends Pharmaceut Sci 5, 335-338, 1984.

Ferrandiz, M.L. and Alcaraz, M.J., Anti-inflammatory activity and inhibition of arachidonic acid metabolism by flavonoids. Agents Action 32, 238-287, 1991.

Satvric, B., Quercetin in our diet: from potent mutagen to probable anticarcinogen. Clin Biochem 27, 245-248, 1994.

Ci Carlo, G., Mascolo, N., et al.: Effects of quercetin on the gastrointestinal tract in rats and mice. Phytotherapy res 8:42-45, 1994.

Ogasawara, H. Milldeton, E., Jr. Effect of selected flavonoids on histamine release (HR) and hydrogen peroxide (H2(2) generation by human leukocytes. J. Allergy Clin. Immunol 75:184, 1985).

Yoshimoto, T. et al. Flavonoids: Potent inhibitors of arachidonate 5-lipoxygenase. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 116:612-18, 1983.

Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements, Prima Publishing, Michael T. Murray, N.D., 1996, pages 324-325.

Total Wellness, Joseph Pizzorno, N.D., Prima Publishing, 1996, Pages 274-275.

Nutritional Influences on Illness, Melvyn R. Werbach, M.D., Third Line Press, 2nd edition, 1993, page 44.

Lininger, S., D.C., Wright, J., M.D., Austin, S, N.D., Brown, D., N.D., Gaby, A., M.D., 'The Natural Pharmacy', Prima Publishing, 1998. P. 201.

3. Catechin

Catechin, another naturally occurring flavonoid, is similar in effect to silymarin. A powerful antioxidant, catechin helps prevent free-radical oxidative damage to cells. It also helps in the treatment and prevention of alcohol and chemical-induced liver disease or damage. Catechin is also valuable for its ability to neutralize intestinal toxins and assist in the stabilization of cell membranes.

Reference:

Golan, R, M.D., Optimal Wellness, Ballantine Publishing, 1995. P. 179.

4. Hesperidin

Hesperidin has been shown useful in clinical trials to have significant analgesic (pain relieving) and anti-inflammatory effects.

Reference:

E.M. Galati, et al., 'Biological Effects of Hesperidin, a citrus flavonoid. Anti-inflammatory and Analgesic Activity,' Farmaco, 40(11), November 1994, p. 709-712.

5. Rutin

Rutin has proven effective in numerous clinical studies to inhibit oxidative (free-radical) damage in pathological human red blood cells, and has the ability to reduce capillary fragility, swelling and bruising. Effective in the treatment of venous insufficiency (varicose veins, hemorrhoids, diabetic vascular disease, and diabetic retinopathy), and for improving micro-vascular blood flow (pain, tired legs, night cramps, and restless legs).

References

L.N. Grinberg, et al., 'Protective Effects of Rutin Against Hemoglobin Oxidation,' Biochem Pharmacol, 48(4), August 17, 1994, p. 643-649.

Beretz, A., and Cazenave, J., 'The Effect of Flavonoids on blood vessel wall interactions. Plant Flavonoids in Biology and Medicine II: Biochemical, Cellular, and Medicinal Properties. Cody V, Middleton, E., Harborne, J.B., and Beretz, A., (eds.). Alan R Liss, New York, NY, 1988, pp. 187-200.

Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements, Prima Publishing, Michael T. Murray, N.D., 1996, pages 327-28.

6. Cynarin

Cynarin is another active flavonoid in artichoke. Cynarin is specifically helpful for detoxifying and supporting the functions of the liver and gall bladder. Acting much like silymarin, cynarin has shown significant protecting and regenerating effects in the liver. It stimulates the clearance of bile from the liver, preventing congestion in the liver and diminishing the chances of liver damage.

Reference

Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements, Prima Publishing, Michael T. Murray, N.D., 1996, page 353.

7. Chlorogenic acid

Chlorogenic acid (16%) A naturally occurring, water soluble, phenolic acid which is a potent antioxidant, carcinogenic inhibitor, protector against lipid peroxidation and free-radical mediated cell injury.

References

J Chromatogr A 1996;741(2):223-31; Biosci Biotechnol Biochem 1996;60(5): 765-68.

Biochem Pharmacol 1987 Mar 1 36:5 717-20.

Plant Foods Hum Nutr 1994 Apr 45:3 287-98.

BENEFITS/SAFETY

· This artichoke bud / sarsaparilla extract has been used to normalize liver and gall bladder function in clinical settings for over 20 years.
· Artichoke bud / sarsaparilla extract is well tolerated and completely safe with no known side effects. Contraindications include allergies to artichoke or sarsaparilla and biliary duct obstruction, such as with gallstones.
· Artichoke bud / sarsaparilla extract functions as a gentle detoxifier; digestive aid; and a liver, gall bladder, and bowel normalizer.

PHYSIOLOGY & USES (Artichoke & Sarsaparilla)

· Extracts of artichoke leaf have been found to stimulate bile production in the liver and bile release from the gall bladder, and thus found effective in helping to eliminate toxic substances, normalizing blood cholesterol levels, lowering blood lipids, and providing liver protective qualities.

Artichoke is used for:

· Anemia
· Arthritis
· Cystitis
· Edema
· Hyperlipidemia
· Improving liver function
· Improving gall bladder function
· Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
· Lowering blood pressure
· Lowering excessive cholesterol levels
· Nausea
· Preventing gallstones
· Upset stomach

· The root of the sarsaparilla plant is considered by European physicians to be an alterative tonic, blood purifier, diuretic (increases urine output) and diaphoretic (increases perspiration).

Sarsaparilla is used for:

· Digestive disorders
· Fever
· Rheumatoid arthritis and other rheumatic conditions
· Skin conditions, including psoriasis and eczema

CLINICAL INDICATIONS

· Inhabit or work in toxic environments
· Abnormal liver enzymes or history of liver disease, including alcoholic liver disease
· For those who smoke, drink alcoholic beverages, or take drugs
· Abnormal blood lipids (cholesterol and triglycerides)
· Digestive or bowel disorders, very effective for irritable bowel syndrome
· Those with surgically removed gall bladders (cholecystectomy)
· Hepatitis patients
· Overweight patients, and during weight loss programs
· Skin disorders, including psoriasis and adult onset acne

SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH

Beneficial effects of flavonoids have been described for successfully treating many health conditions, including cancer, viral infections, diabetes, headaches, liver disease, ulcers, and allergies. They can also bind to enzymes and DNA, chelate heavy metals, and play a role in electron transport.

Phytosterols are plant fats. Plants do not contain cholesterol, but phytosterols play a similar role in plants to that of cholesterol in humans, primarily the forming of cell membrane structures, sources of fuel for storage and transport, and protective surface coatings. The most common plant sterols are ß-sitosterol, campesterol, and stigmasterol. Recent studies have shown that phytosterols have antihyperglycemic and insulin-releasing effects, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic activities, and important immune regulating and T-cell proliferative activities.

Extracts of the artichoke leaf stimulates bile production in the liver and increased bile release from the gall bladder, and thus has been effective in helping to eliminate toxic substances, normalizing blood cholesterol levels, lowering blood lipids, and providing liver protective qualities.

European physicians consider sarsaparilla root as an alterative tonic, blood purifier, diuretic, and diaphoretic. With its clinical uses as a blood purifier, it was registered as an official herb in the U.S. Pharmacopoeia as a treatment for syphilis from 1820 to 1910. Clinical observations in China demonstrated that sarsaparilla is effective in about 90% of acute cases and 50% of chronic cases of syphilis. In 1942 it was shown to dramatically improve psoriasis, and in the 1950’s the antibiotic properties of sarsaparilla were documented.

An herbal Saudi Arabian drug created from sarsaparilla has been used for many years to treat rheumatism and various forms of arthritis. Further studies showed that sarsaparilla inhibited carrageenan-induced inflammation in rats. Recent research from China has shown that an extract of sarsaparilla was able to prevent immunological liver damage. And three studies performed between 1994 and 1999, have shown that extracts of sarsaparilla have snake venom inhibitory activity.

Artichoke References:

Lung, A, Foster, S; Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients, John Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, 1996.

Blumenthal M, editor. The Complete German Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. Trans. S. Klein. Boston, MA: American Botanical Council, 1998.

Castro O, et al: Neutralization of the Hemorrhagic Effect Induced by Bothrops Asper (Serpentes Viperidae) Venom with Tropical Plant Extracts, Rev Biol Trop 1999, Sep: 47(3): 605-616.

Alam MI, et al; Isolation, Purification and Partial Characterization of Viper Venom Inhibiting Factor from the Root Extract of the Indian Medicinal Plant Sarsaparilla, Toxicon, 1994, Dec;32(12): 1551-1557.

Englisch W, Beckers C, Unkauf M, et al. Efficacy of Artichoke dry extract in patients with hyperlipoproteinemia. Arzneimittelforschung 2000;50:260-5

Van, Acker, S. et al; Structural Aspects of Antioxidant Activity of Flavonoids, Flavonoids in Health and Disease, Rice-Evans, C. editor, Marcel Dekker, Inc. 1998.

Hobbs, C; Sarsaparilla, A Literature Review, HerbalGram, No. 17, 1988.

Walker AF, Middleton RW, Petrowicz O. Artichoke leaf extract reduces symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome in a post-marketing surveillance study. Phytother Res 2001;15:58-61.

Fitzpatrick, FK; Plant Substances Active Against Mycobacterium Tuberculosis, Antibiotics and Chemotherapy, 4(5), 528-536, 1954.

Kraft K. Artichoke leaf extract- recent findings reflecting effects on lipid metabolism, liver and gastrointestinal tracts. Phytomedicine 1997;4(4):369-78.

Ivorra MD, et al; Antihyperglycemic and Insulin-releasing Effects of ß-sitosterol 3-B-glucoside and Its Aglycone, ß-sitosterol, Archives of the International Phamnacodyn, V. 296, April 1988, 224-231.

Gupta R. et al; Anti-inflammatory and Antipyretic Activities of ß-sitosterol, Planta Medica (Journal of Plant Medicine) V. 39, 1980, 157-163.

Pegel, Karl, The Importance of Sitosterol and Sitosterolin in Human and Animal Nutrition, South African Journal of Science, V. 93, June 1997, 263-268.

Brown JE, Rice-Evans CA. Luteolin-rich artichoke extract protects low density lipoprotein from oxidation in vitro. Free Radic Res 1998;29:247-55.
Adzet T, et al; Hepatoprotective Activity of Polyphenolic Compounds from Cynara Scolymnus Against CC14 Toxicity in Isolated Rat Hepatocytes, Journal of Natural Products, 50: 612, 1987.

Gebhart R; Inhibition of Cholesterol Biosynthesis in Primary Cultured Rat Hepatocytes by Artichoke Extracts. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 286; 3, 1998.

Fintelmann V; Therapeutic Profile and Mechanism of Action of Artichoke Leaf Extract; Hypolipemic, Antioxidant, Hepatoprotective and Choleretic Properties. Phytomedicine, 1996. Supplement 1:50.

Kirchoff R, et al; Increase in Choleresis By Means of Artichoke Extract. Results of a Randomized Placebo-controlled Double-blind study. Phytomedicine 1: 107, 1994.

Ageel, AM et al; Experimental Studies on Antirheumatic Crude Drugs Used in Saudi Traditional Medicine, College of Pharmacy, Kind Daud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Drugs Exp Clin Res 1989, 15(8): 369-372.

Heckers H, Dittmar K, Schmahl FW, et al. Inefficiency of cynarin as therapeutic regimen in familial type II hyperlipoproteinaemia. Atherosclerosis 1977;26:249-53.

Chen, T, et al; A New Flavanone Isolated From Rhizoma Smilacis Glabrae and the Structural Requirements of Its Derivatives for Preventing Immunological Hepatocyte Damage. Planta Med 1999, Feb;65(1):56-59.

Gebhardt R. Antioxidative and protective properties of extracts from leaves of the artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) against hydroperoxide-induced oxidative stress in cultured rat hepatocytes. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 1997;144:279-86.

Sarsaparilla References:

Bradley PR (ed). British Herbal Compendium, vol 1. Bournemouth, Dorset, UK: British Herbal Medicine Association, 1992, 194–6.

Blumenthal M, Busse WR, Goldberg A, et al. (eds). The Complete Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. Boston, MA: Integrative Medicine Communications, 1998, 372–3.

Thurman, FM; The Treatment of Psoriasis with Sarsaparilla Compound, New England Journal of Medicine, 337, 128-133, 1942.

Jiang J, Xu Q., Immunomodulatory activity of the aqueous extract from rhizome of Smilax glabra in the later phase of adjuvant-induced arthritis in rats. J Ethnopharmacol. 2003 Mar;85(1):53-9.
Rafatullah S, Mossa JS, Ageel AM, et al. Hepatoprotective and safety evaluation studies on sarsaparilla. Int J Pharmacognosy 1991;29:296–301.

Yi Y, Cao Z, Yang D, Cao Y, Wu Y, Zhao S., Studies on the chemical constituents of Smilax glabra. Yao Xue Xue Bao. 1998 Nov;33(11):873-5.

Report on ORACFL Values of the “UMN Liver Support”

Artichoke/Sarsaparilla Extract

Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) measures the ability of the sample being analyzed to protect against attack by free radicals, or to act as an antioxidant. Several methods have recently been developed to measure the total antioxidant capacity of biological samples, but the ORAC method is quite unique. It measures the degree to which a sample inhibits the action of an oxidizing agent and how long the inhibiting effect lasts. It then integrates the two measurements into a single one. This provides an accurate and reproducible measurement for different types of antioxidants having different strengths.
The ORAC procedure provides a measure of total antioxidant capacity and will measure the common nutrient antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, ß-carotene, etc., plus a number of other naturally occurring phytochemicals, such as the flavonoids and phenolic acids. The standard of comparison in this procedure is Trolox (a water-soluble analog of vitamin E), which is defined as Trolox Equivalents (TE).
The ORACFL analysis, which utilizes Fluorescein as the fluorescent probe, provides a measure of the scavenging capacity of antioxidants against the peroxyl radical, which is one of the most common reactive oxygen species (ROS) found in the body.

Sample ORACFL Phenolics
(µmole TE/g) (mg/g)

Artichoke / Sarsaparilla 1,963 70.9
Extract

ORACFL Value of Various Fruits

Apple 9

Cherry 20

Grape 23

Cranberry 29

Raisin 31

Strawberry 37

Prune 51

Grape Skin 79

Blueberry 84

Bilberry 111

Elderberry 161

Grape Seeds 360

Elderberry Extract 876

Wild Bilberry Extract 1528

Artichoke/Sarsaparilla 1963

Wild Blueberry Extract 5467

There is much being studied and written in the scientific world about antioxidants, phytochemicals, and nutraceuticals, with a tremendous amount of research underway to determine the role that specific antioxidants play in protecting the body from harmful free radicals. Free radicals are atoms or groups of atoms that can cause damage to cells, impair the immune system, lead to infections and various degenerative diseases such as heart disease and cancer. These free radicals can be caused by exposure to radiation, toxic chemical exposure, and various metabolic processes. Free radicals are kept in check by the action of antioxidants. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals.

Although antioxidants can be obtained from food sources, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, it is difficult to obtain all that we need in our daily diets. It is also known that it is best to take various types of antioxidants, not just one, since they work synergistically to minimize free radical damage.

Reversing Liver Damage
By Charles L. Cochran, D.C.

Copyright Charles Cochran, 1999. All rights reserved.
Reprinted with permission of the author.

It’s a little difficult to get excited about the liver. I don’t know if this results from our childhood when mom tried to make us eat our liver (mine always tried to mask the flavor with bacon and onions) or that it’s never achieved the romance of such organs as the brain or heart. Nevertheless, I know of no other organ that performs near as many vital functions as this misaligned, often forgotten organ.

The liver is the largest internal organ in the human body weighing 3-4 pounds. Unlike any other organ it has two sources of blood supply: the hepatic artery carrying oxygenated blood from the heart and the portal vein carrying food substances from the intestines. Blood passes through the liver at a rate of about 1.4 liters per minute, and at any instant contains about 10% of the entire blood supply. The cells of the liver closest to the entry of the portal vein and the hepatic artery are called periportal hepatocytes.

Periportal hepatocytes have higher concentrations of oxygen and nutrients than any other tissue in the body because the liver is the first organ to receive nutrients absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract. These same cells also have higher concentrations of glutathione and transaminase enzymes, the enzymes used to evaluate liver damage in standard blood tests. However, these are the same cells that have the highest exposure to chemical and environmental toxins.

The liver carries on over 500 functions essential for life. These can be grouped into seven main categories:

1) storage of carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals
2) metabolism of hormones, endogenous wastes, and foreign chemicals
3) synthesis of blood proteins
4) formation of urea
5) metabolism of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates
6) formation of bile and gamma globulin
7) assimilation and storage of fat-soluble vitamins

The liver is the main organ of biotransformation (the chemical alteration that a substance goes through in the body). The lungs and the kidneys are secondary organs of biotransformation, having about one-third of the liver’s detoxification capacity. The liver eliminates these compounds in one of three ways: by secreting them into the bile ( a derivative of cholesterol that aids in the emulsification of fats in the diet), by phagocytosis ( the offending compound is eaten by specialized liver cells called Kupffer’s cells), or by chemically altering the compound from non-polar molecules to polar molecules using special enzymes making them water soluble and easier to eliminate. These enzymes make up what is known as the cytochrome P-450 system. Cytochrome P-450 enzymes have been found in the intestines, adrenal cortex, testes, spleen, heart, muscles, brain, and skin. However, the highest concentrations are found in the liver.

In this highly industrialized world that we live in, it’s impossible to breathe and eat without taking in toxic chemicals. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that 500,000 chemicals are in use today, and each year over 5,000 new chemicals are added. I’ve read in several sources that up to 25% of these chemicals that have been approved to be used in our environment are cancer-causing or carcinogenic. And what is even scarier is that there has been relatively few studies of the detrimental effects that these chemical substances have on our bodies when combined together. Overuse of alcohol, drugs (including prescription), and tobacco, as well as, an improper diet and overeating create an additional burden to the body’s detoxification organs.

Liver Detoxification

Optimum health depends on a healthy liver. When the liver is over-stressed, all other organs start to dysfunction as well. The liver is constantly having to break down, not only the environmental or external toxins, but also those produced by the body during normal metabolic processes which we call internal toxins. These internal toxins come from such compounds as hormones, vitamins, cholesterol, inflammatory chemicals and fatty acids that have served their function and been used by the body and now need to be eliminated. In most illnesses, health care providers should evaluate liver function. If it can be improved, the entire body will usually benefit.

Fortunately, there has been extensive research using safe, natural nutritional products that help in the phases of liver detoxification. There are two phases in detoxification of the body, Phase I and Phase II. Phase I refers to converting non-polar molecules (like fats) into polar molecules (like water). Like a magnet, polar molecules are shaped such that they have a negative and positive pole. This conversion of non-polar to polar molecules is accomplished by using very specific enzymes and is necessary because most toxins are non-polar lipophilic (fat soluble) molecules and are stored throughout the fatty tissues in the body. Enzymes are complex proteins that are capable of inducing chemical changes in other substances without being changed themselves. They are like the key for your automobile. Your key fits in the ignition of your car only and causes a whole chain of events that lead to it moving down the road without changing the shape or function of the key.

There are close to 100 enzymes that make up the cytochrome P-450 system. Each enzyme works best in detoxifying specific chemicals. However, there is some enzyme overlapping in case one of the keys is damaged there is another one that can take over and do the job. For example, much like the old worn out key that won’t open the door anymore, DNA damage or genetic defects can cause changes in these enzymes making them useless to the body. These enzymatic reactions require the presence of very specific nutrients. Nutrients required for Phase I include beta-carotene, vitamin B1, vitamin C, and vitamin E. The minerals necessary to support the liver during Phase I detoxification are copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, molybdenum, sulfur, and zinc. And other nutrients that can support this phase are alpha-ketoglutaric acid, choline, essential fatty acids, lecithin, and methionine.

Herbs used to support the liver in detoxifying the body include milk thistle, golden seal, garlic, cayenne, licorice root, yellow dock, and ginseng. Later in this article, I will introduce you to a wonderful liver detoxification formula created from extracts of a hybrid artichoke and sarsaparilla.

Phase I detoxification can be evaluated by the caffeine metabolism test. This test is performed by ingesting caffeine and testing the saliva. Low caffeine clearance indicates that cytochrome P-450 activity of the liver is abnormal and these individuals would have difficulty eliminating toxins.

In Phase II detoxification, other chemical groups are added to the compound, or conjugated, making it now completely water soluble and available for excretion through the kidneys. Again, there are nutrients that will support this second process, including cysteine, garlic, D-glucarate, glycine, L-glutathione, N-acetyl cysteine, and taurine. Vitamins essential for Phase II detoxification are folic acid and vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, and B12. The minerals necessary for this phase include germanium, magnesium, manganese, molybdenum, sulfur, selenium, and zinc.

Phase II detoxification can be evaluated by the ingestion of acetaminophen (Tylenol) or aspirin and then checking for the products of glutathione conjugation, sulfonation, glucuronidation, and glycine conjugation.

Glutathione is composed of three peptides including glutamic acid, cysteine, and glycine. It has the ability to take up and give off hydrogen and consequently can protect the body from hydrogen peroxide toxicity. Sulfonation describes a process of adding inorganic sulfate to hydroxyl (-OH) groups for detoxification. Glucuronidation is accomplished by the addition of a sugar molecule using an important acid, glucuronic acid, which renders certain toxic substances harmless. And glycine, a non-essential amino acid, stimulates the production of glutathione and also aids in the detoxification of benzoic acid and phenol.

A problem occurs when Phase I detoxification happens faster than the Phase II detoxification. Phase I detoxification sometimes creates compounds that are even more toxic than the original chemical. And unless quickly removed by the Phase II detoxification, these more active toxins produce problems throughout the body. Studies have shown that individuals who have fast Phase I and slow Phase II detoxification are more prone to developing cancer and also suffer severe reactions to environmental toxins. Curcumin, a flavonoid found in turmeric that gives it the yellow color, may be helpful in these cases. Curcumin has been found to slow down Phase I and speed up Phase II. It has also been shown to have exceptional anticancer qualities. So for those who find themselves sensitive to environmental toxins, like second-hand smoke, eating lots of curry dishes which contains curcumin may be beneficial. Capsaicin from red chili pepper, naringenin from grapefruit, and eugenol from clove oil are other Phase I inhibitors.

Another compound that has powerful anticancer effects, as well as being able to stimulate enzymes in both Phase I and Phase II detoxification is indole-3-carbinol. It is found naturally occurring in broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and brussels sprouts. Along with supporting the liver, indole-3-carbinol helps to eliminate cancer-causing chemicals throughout the digestive tract.

Genetic Factors

Occasionally there are those who are genetically predisposed to sluggish livers. These genetic defects cause adverse changes to occur in the enzymes that are involved in detoxification. Susceptibility to damages in the body due to internal and external toxins can be caused by one or more of about 50 inherited enzymatic defects.

For instance, there is a small part of the European and Asian communities that are affected by a genetic defect in the debrisoquine hydroxylase enzyme. This defect slows the rate of drug and chemical detoxification. Lung cancer and Parkinson’s disease have been found to be related to this enzyme defect. Many of those with food sensitivities have been found to have defects in the gene that creates the liver enzyme that metabolizes the chemical S-carboxymethyl cysteine. And a study performed in Turin, Italy, showed that those with certain liver enzyme deficiencies had higher risks of bladder cancer.

This variability in enzymes is why certain individuals abilities to eliminate cancer-causing chemicals is better than others. This explains why some people can drink alcohol and smoke cigarettes and live to a ripe old age while others develop cancer after only a few decades of abuse.

COMPARATIVE STUDY BETWEEN A COMPLEX OF FLAVONOIDS AND POLYPHENOLS CREATED FROM EXTRACTS OF ARTICHOKE AND SARSAPARILLA (“United Medical Network Liver Support” formula) AND A PLACEBO IN ALCOHOL RELATED LIVER DISEASE

INTRODUCTION

Currently there is much interest in the health benefits of various phytochemicals. Many of the protective qualities of foods have been attributed to the antioxidant capabilities of such nutrients as the carotenoids, tocopherols, and Vitamin C. Recent research, however, points to a specific group of C15 aromatic plant pigments, called flavonoids, which offer many active principles in medicinal plants. This group of aromatic compounds includes the chalcones, dihydroflavones (flavanones), flavones, isoflavones, biflavonoids, dihydroflavonols, flavonols, anthocyanidins, and proanthocyanidins. Presently there are over 4000 individual flavonoid compounds known.

A single plant may contain several flavonoids with distribution being specific to various parts of the plant. Flavonoids play different roles in each part of the plant. For instance, because of their attractive colors, flavonols, flavones, and anthocyanidins are helpful in signaling pollinating insects. Catechins and other flavonols have astringent qualities that protect the plant by keeping other insects away. Some flavonoids have UV-absorbing properties and protect the plant from harmful UV radiation from the sun. While others participate in the light phase of plant photosynthesis.

Historically, flavonoids have been described for treating diabetes mellitus, allergy, cancer, viral infections, headache, stomach and duodenal ulcer, liver pathology, and inflammation. They can bind to enzymes, hormone carriers, and DNA; chelate metal ions such as iron, copper, zinc, and manganese; catalyze electron transport; and scavenge free radicals. Most researchers conclude that the pharmacological effect of flavonoids is due to their inhibition of certain enzymes, their metal chelating abilities, and to their antioxidant activity.

The “UMN Liver Support” formula is a complex of flavonoids and polyphenols created from extracts of the artichoke (Cynara floridanum) and sarsaparilla (Smilax aristolochiaefolia). It was created by a group of three researchers specializing in pharmacology, plant chemistry, and liver disease. It has been used clinically for almost 20 years in various private medical settings throughout Central and South America with favorable results in addressing many liver and gall bladder disorders. A comprehensive chemical analysis has not been performed at this time. However, a partial analysis for certain flavonoids and polyphenols has been accomplished. This analysis has shown levels of quercetin, kaempferol, isorhamnetin, (+)-catechin, silymarin, cynarin, caffeic acid, and chlorogenic acid.

The artichoke has been used historically in the United States and Europe to treat such conditions as sluggish liver, poor digestion, atherosclerosis, elevated triglycerides and cholesterol, decreased bile secretion, kidney diseases, and proteinuria. In Honduras and Mexico, sarsaparilla is used to treat rheumatism. And in the United States and China, it has been used to treat arthritis, cancer, skin disease, venereal disease, fevers, and digestive disorders. And in one Chinese study, sarsaparilla was found to be 90% effective in treating syphilis.

After years of research with patients in private clinics, it was decided to evaluate the ingredients found in the “UMN Liver Support” formula with a randomized double blind placebo study. Patients chosen for this study were those who had been diagnosed with chronic alcoholic liver disease caused by excessive ingestion of alcohol (excessive ingestion being defined as one (1) to one and one half (1 ½) liters of tequila or brandy per day for extended periods of time). The patients were diagnosed and chosen in the Clinic par la Attention de Problemas Relacionados con el Alcohol (CAPRA) at the General Hospital in Mexico City, which belongs to the Secretaria de Salud (Equivalent to the U.S. Department of Health). (Translation: Clinic for the Attention of Problems Related to Alcohol)

METHODOLOGY

The study chosen was a randomized double blind placebo study in which neither the treating physicians in charge or the patients knew to whom the real product or the placebo was administered. Sixty (60) patients were divided in a random way into two (2) groups of thirty (30) each. Of these sixty test subjects, 53 were male and 7 were female with ages running from 26 years of age to 52 years of age (average age 37.3 years). All of the patients had tests made of liver performance, hepatic cytology, blood analysis, prothrombin time, urine tests, and clinical examination. These same tests were completed again at the end of the study. The treatment lasted thirty (30) days and each patient took three capsules (420 mgs. each) three times per day.

DEFINITION OF PARAMETERS AND RESULTS EXPRESSED IN PERCENTAGES

To make this report useful and keep misinterpretations to a minimum, it was important that we defined the following clinical parameters, laboratory analysis, and results in a clear and simple way. The following results have been expressed in percent improvement, which was determined using two indices, the Maddrey and Orrego (see references below). Results were measured before and after treatment, calculating the difference, and expressing these results as a percentage of recuperation.

Maddrey, C.; Willis; Boitnott, K.; Bedine, S.; Weber, L.; Fredrick; Mezey, E.; White, R.; Corticosteriod Therapy of Alcoholic Hepatitis. Gastroenterology 75: 193-199. 1978.

Orrego, H.; Kalant, H.; Israel, Y.; Blake, J.; Medline, A.; Rankin, J.; Armstrong, A.; Kapur, B.; Effect of Short-Term Therapy with Propylthiouracil in Patients with Alcoholic Liver Disease. Gastroenterology 76; 105-115. 1978.

Ascites

Ascites is the effusion and accumulation of serous fluid in the abdominal cavity. It is found commonly in those diagnosed with liver disease.
A 72.38% reduction of ascites was observed in the experimental group. The placebo group experienced a 6.35% increase in abdominal fluid.

Encephalopathy

Encephalopathy is a degenerative disease of the brain. Hepatic encephalopathy is a condition usually occurring secondarily to advanced disease of the liver. It is marked by disturbances of consciousness, which may progress to deep coma (hepatic coma), psychiatric changes of varying degree, flapping tremor and fetor hepaticas. It is also referred to as portal-systemic encephalopathy.
A 66.08% reduction of encephalopathy was obtained in the experimental group. The placebo group saw a 12.24% increase in these symptoms.

Splenomegaly

Splenomegaly is enlargement of the spleen. Congestive splenomegaly often results from cirrhosis of the liver and is also characterized by anemia and hemorrhages.
A 88.40% reduction in spleen enlargement was noted with the treated group. The placebo group worsened by 11.54%.

Hepatomegaly

Hepatomegaly is enlargement of the liver. It is seen as a result of cirrhosis, fatty infiltration, passive congestion, and early biliary obstruction.
The treated group experienced a 93.33% reduction in enlarged livers. In the placebo group their livers continued to enlarge by another 7.14%.

Weakness

Weakness is defined as lacking physical strength or vigor, asthenia, atony, cardiasthenia, fatigue, and lassitude.
The treated group noted a 73.64% increase in strength. There was a decrease in muscle strength in muscle strength by 7.41% in the placebo group.

Peripheral Edema

Peripheral edema is a condition in which the peripherals body tissues contain an excessive amount of tissue fluid. It results from increased permeability of the capillary walls due to possible disturbances in renal functioning, reduction of plasma proteins, fluid and electrolyte imbalances, and malnutrition.
Edema in the extremities of the treated patients decreased by 48.21% in the treated group. There was no change in the placebo group.

Hemorrhages

Hemorrhaging is bleeding. Many alcoholics present with massive upper GI bleeding from esophageal varices secondary to portal hypertension (increased pressure in the portal vein as a result of obstruction of the flow of blood through the liver).
The treated group noted a 100.00% decrease in capillary hemorrhaging in the skin, gums, and nasal membranes. The placebo group saw an increase of 28.57% in hemorrhaging.

Anorexia

Anorexia is defined as loss of appetite. Anorexia is seen in depression, malaise, commencement of fevers and illness, also in disorders of the alimentary tract, especially the stomach, and as a result of alcoholic excesses, drug addiction or certain medicines.
Anorexia decreased in the treated group by 76.98%. The placebo group noted a decrease of 3.70%.

Abdominal Wall Veins

Abdominal Wall Veins are very tortuous (having many twists or turns) veins visible throughout the abdomen of the patient. Related to ascites.
The experimental group saw a 60.62% reduction while the placebo group experienced a 3.33% reduction.

Palmar Erythema

Palmar erythema is reddish and swollen palms due to muscular hypotrophy (progressive degeneration and functional loss of cells and tissues).
The Liv-1 group experienced a 26.67%% reduction in palmar erythema and there was no change with the placebo group.

Telangiectasia

Telangiectasia is a vascular lesion formed by dilatation of a group of small blood vessels of the skin.
The Liv-1 group saw 60.00%% reduction in these lesions. While in the placebo group there was a 3.33% reduction.

Total Bilirubin

Bilirubin is the predominant pigment of human bile and it gives the bile a golden yellow color. Total serum bilirubin may be increased in cirrhosis of the liver and acute viral hepatitis.
The experimental (Liv-1) group saw a 38.95% reduction in total bilirubin and the placebo group saw a 5.68% increase.

Alkaline Phosphatase

Alkaline phosphatase is an enzyme that hydrolyzes monophosphoric esters liberating inorganic phosphate. Its optimum pH is about 9.0 (alkaline) and functions in the mineralization process of bone. It is excreted by the liver; hence its levels increase in the blood whenever an obstructive liver condition exists.
Patients taking the Liv-1 obtained a 25.91% reduction in alkaline phosphatase blood levels and the placebo group saw an increase of 11.69%.

Serum Glutamic Oxaloacetic Transaminase (SGOT)

Oxalacetic glutamic transaminase is an enzyme distributed throughout all tissues, but especially found in high concentrations in the heart and liver. OGT is increased in cases of hepatitis, hepatic necrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatic metastasis. SGOT is now more commonly referred to as aspartate aminotransferase.
The treated group noted a decrease of 23.83% in SGOT levels. The placebo group experienced a worsening of 11.71%.

Prothrombin Time

Prothrombin time is a test of clotting time made by determining the time for clotting to occur after thromboplastin and calcium are added to decalcified plasma.
There was a decrease in prothrombin time in the experimental group of 42.00%. An increase in clotting time was noted in the placebo group of 6.60%.

Serum Albumin

Serum albumin is one of a group of simple proteins widely distributed in tissues; it is found in the blood. Low levels of albumin in blood plasma are associated with a pathologic condition of the liver.
The experimental group saw an increase in serum albumin of 37.27%. There was a decrease in the placebo group of 1.95%.

Gamma Glutamyl Transpeptidase (GGT)

GGT is a tissue enzyme that is elevated in many conditions involving hepatic damage including alcohol-induced hepatic injury; in patients with renal disease, pancreatitis, diabetes mellitus, and coronary artery disease.
The treated group noted a reduction of 23.79% in GGT. The placebo group experienced an increase of 9.92%.

Conclusion

Many of the most common symptoms of headaches, mental confusion, muscle pain, fatigue, poor coordination, nerve problems, skin irritations, and emotional imbalances can be a result of over exposure to toxins. Our bodies have become the final resting place of many dangerous poisons found throughout our environment. Even those who lead a relatively environmentally clean existence can become overwhelmed with internal toxins produced as a result of emotional traumas and microorganisms. However, in spite of the fact that our bodies are being deluged each day with external and internal toxins, we can still experience relatively good health if we make the efforts to clean up our internal environment.

In addition to the nutrients mentioned in this article, here are a few other suggestions that can be helpful. Drinking distilled water can help leach many of the metallic chemicals that accumulate throughout the body. Hot baths or saunas while using a loofah sponge to stimulate blood supply can help rid poisons through the skin. There are some great oral chelation formulas available today that can remove toxins and plaque that accumulate on the inside of blood vessels leading to atherosclerosis and heart disease. Adding more raw fruits and vegetables to your diet helps to provide enzymes necessary for detoxification and a short two or three day vegetable juice fast can quickly help to detoxify the liver. Eliminating alcohol and drugs, except those prescribed by your physician, is critical for optimal detoxification. And eliminating highly refined and processed foods, high sugar foods, and foods with hardened fats will surely give your liver the rest it so sorely needs.

References and Suggested reading:

The Whole Way to Natural Detoxification. Jacqueline Krohn, M.D., Frances Taylor, and Jinger Prosser. Hartley & Marks Publishers, Inc. 1996.

Staying Healthy in a Risky Environment, The New York University Medical Center Family Guide. Arthur C. Upton, M.D. and Eden Graber, M.S..Simon & Schuster, 1993.

Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine. Michael Murray, N.D. and Joseph Pizzorno, N.D. Prima Publishing, 1998.