According to Dr Partap Chauhan, the director of Jiva Ayurveda, natural herbs are the best remedies to keep the body functioning perfectly

The liver (Yakrit), is a vital organ. It converts rasa dhatu to rakta dhatu (blood). It also produces bile (ranjak pitta) and detoxifies the body, eliminating ama from the blood. Wrong diet and lifestyle damages the liver tissues and leads to diseases like jaundice, fatty liver and hepatitis. Thankfully, Ayurveda can help. Include these five simple Ayurvedic herbs in your life to keep your liver healthy.

Kutki: This bitter tasting herb is cooling in nature and has a cleansing effect on the liver and the gallbladder. In Ayurveda, kutki is prescribed to improve the appetite and to treat jaundice or bile disorders. The herb is beneficial in skin disorders and also improves the metabolism.

Turmeric: This yellow herb supports liver functions and cleanses the blood. It can also aid the process of transforming rasa into rakta. Turmeric also promotes elimination of toxins from the body. In most cases, you do not need to take any additional turmeric if you already use it in your meals.

Guduchi: This herb is  known for its detoxifying and blood cleansing properties. Ayurvedic herbal medicines prepared for liver problems contain guduchi. The herb also has known benefits in treating Kamala (jaundice), hepatitis and fatty liver. Guduchi should be taken under the guidance of an Ayurvedic doctor.

Triphala: The mixture of amla, bibhitaki and haritaki helps in regularising metabolism and bowel movements. It cools down the body and balances all tridoshas in the body. Triphala churna can be taken by anyone every night before bed.

Aloe vera: Aloe vera juice flushes toxins out of the liver (hepatoxicity) and promotes good bowel movements. In addition to soothing the digestive system, aloe vera also fights stress and strengthens the immune system.

NOTE: Please do not self-medicate with herbs. For treatment of liver problems, please consult a doctor.

(The views expressed are personal. Dr Partap Chauhan is an author, public speaker and a Ayurvedacharya).