Milk Thistle

• Milk thistle seeds heal, protect and stimulate the liver.Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
  
  The seeds of Silybum marianum, common name milk thistle, are used as a folk remedy for liver health in Western countries. In a study published in "The Indian Journal of Medical Research" in 2006, researchers found that Silybum contained a whole range of natural chemicals that played a role in protecting the liver from chemical damage. Taking extracts of Silybum helps to protect liver tissues from free radicals, inflammation, infection and stimulates rejuvenation of liver cells.
  
  

Andrographis paniculata

• Andrographis is one of the most popular Ayurvedic herbs used in Western countries.Jupiterimages/Goodshoot/Getty Images
  
  Andrographis is a traditional Ayurvedic plant used to treat various complaints such as nausea, poor digestion and viral infection. Kerry Bone, author of "Clinical Applications of Ayurvedic and Chinese Herbs," states that Andrographis is a useful hepatoprotective herb and possesses properties similar to that of Silybum marianum. Andrographis is best taken as a liquid tincture or herbal tea, as the intense bitter flavor plays a role in the medicinal actions of the plant.
  
  

Globe Artichoke

• Globe artichoke helps to stimulate digestion, protect and heal the liver and reduce constipation.Ablestock.com/AbleStock.com/Getty Images
  
  Cynara scolymus is also known as globe artichoke, a popular culinary plant that is also used for medicinal purposes. In a study published in "Planta Medica" in 2002, researchers found extracts of Cynara leaves had a significant effect on preventing chemical damage to liver cells and helped to prevent blockages occurring within the bile ducts of the liver. While the leaves are not considered edible, they can be made into teas, tinctures and dried extracts so as to gain the benefits of the herb.
  
  

Green Tea

• Green tea protects the liver, the heart, the immune system and dental health.Jupiterimages/Comstock/Getty Images
  
  Green tea is a famous Asian tea known for its antioxidant, anticancer and cardioprotective properties. According to recent medical research, the same catechins that give green tea its antioxidant qualities are also active in protecting the liver. In a study published in "Chemico-Biological Interactactions" in 2009, researchers reported that green tea plays an important role in preventing abnormalities and diseases of the liver in animals. By drinking green tea every day, humans can expect these same medicinal benefits for their own livers.