Herbal Plants With Hepatoprotective Activity: A Review

Abstract

Hepatoprotective herbal plants have been utilized in traditional medicine for centuries to mitigate liver damage caused by toxins, oxidative stress, and various diseases. This review article examines key herbal plants with demonstrated hepatoprotective properties, including their active compounds, mechanisms of action, and supporting scientific evidence. Plants such as milk thistle (Silybum marianum), turmeric (Curcuma longa), and ginseng (Panax ginseng) are highlighted for their roles in antioxidant defense, anti-inflammatory effects, and cellular repair. Liver injury is a serious medical issue that confronts not only medical specialists but also the pharmaceutical business and drug regulatory organizations. Worldwide, 3- 3.5 million people are affected by liver disease each year, of which 1 million are related to cirrhosis disease, 1 million to viral hepatitis, and 1 million to hepatocellular cancer. Worldwide, some 2 billion people use alcohol, and up to 75 million have been diagnosed with alcohol use disorders or are at risk of developing these diseases. Consequently, the usage of herbal medications has grown, becoming more and more common. Natural remedies and herbal-based treatments have a long history of use in India for the treatment of liver illness. The review synthesizes findings from preclinical and clinical studies, emphasizing the potential of these botanicals as adjunct therapies for liver disorders. However, challenges such as standardization, dosage variability, and potential interactions necessitate further research for clinical translation.