In traditional Chinese medicine, various Chinese herbs are used to try and balance the gallbladder and liver. Now that we live in Denmark, I think it's more relevant to look at which Danish herbs we have for the same purpose.
Historically, in Danish folk medicine, we have several old medicinal plants that are traditionally said to be good for gallbladder and liver function. I have gathered some of them for you here.
Due to current regulations, I am unfortunately obliged to write the following:
They are not medical advice and cannot replace professional treatment or medical assessment.
Traditional uses are not necessarily supported by modern scientific research.
Milk Thistle
Milk thistle is traditionally said to support liver function and protect it from influences. The active substance in the plant is also believed to support bile production.
Dandelion
Dandelion leaves and roots are rich in bitter compounds and have traditionally been used to support digestion and bile function. The plant is often referred to as cleansing in naturopathic tradition.
Horsetail
Horsetail has been used in folk medicine in connection with the liver and gallbladder and is said to support the body's natural processes.
Nettle
Nettle has a long tradition in Danish folk medicine and is often referred to as a plant that supports the body's balance.
Artichoke
Artichoke is one of my favorites. It is traditionally associated with the liver and digestion and is often used in herbal tradition in connection with bile production.
Many of the herbs listed above are plants that many people dislike having in their garden. Perhaps it's not so bad that some of nature's gifts resist cultivation or control – even if we don't quite understand how to use them or see the amazing in them.
My plant companion is a dandelion. I was perhaps a little disappointed at first when I discovered it on a drum journey, until I realized how much strength there was to be found in the dandelion. How resilient it is. How generous it is. How much it brightens up even on sad days. And how many seeds it manages to spread with the wind.
For me, it is a natural source of inspiration.
All plants have special qualities. Perhaps we just need to learn to see them again.
RECIPE: SPRING HERBAL TEA
In spring, there are many delicious herbs that I love to use for herbal teas. Here is one of my favorite blends:
Ingredients:
1 tbsp dried dandelion leaves
1 tbsp dried milk thistle leaves
1 tbsp dried nettle leaves
1 tbsp dried peppermint leaves
1/2-1 liter of water
Optionally, a little honey or stevia
Let the tea steep for about 10 minutes. Optionally, sweeten with a little honey or stevia.
You can easily find the herbs for the tea dried and ready to use at a health food store, or you can dry your own herbs. Of course, always remember to read up on each plant so you know which parts of the plant to use. I like to mix equal proportions of the above herbs in a jar so I can easily make a quick cup of spring herbal tea.
Do you have a favorite spring herb or herbal blend?
You are very welcome to share it in the comment section 👇🏻 so we can inspire each other 🙏