Dog Liver Health - Natural Remedies


	Natural Remedies for Dog Liver Health *Dog liver health can be supported and sustained by various natural remedies such as herbs, homeopathy, and supplements.* As discussed in our page on liver disease in dogs, conventional medicine offers very little in terms of successful treatment for liver diseases in dogs. As such, if your dog is unfortunately suffering from canine liver disease, please consult with a holistic veterinarian who can incorporate natural herbal and homeopathic remedies in the treatment program. The purpose of this page is hopefully to educate and empower you - the dog owner - so that you know there are better and safer alternative treatments for canine liver disease and that you can work better together with a holistic vet. For preventive measure, you can use some tonic herbs listed below on a regular basis for your dog's liver health. Herbs for Dog Liver Health Milk Thistle Milk Thistle is the herb for liver health. This herb benefits the liver by: increasing bile flow; stimulating protein synthesis, thus rebuilding cells damaged by liver disease; acting as an antioxidant, thus slowing the inflammatory process and preventing further cell damage; strengthening cells that have been exposed to toxins. As a preventative measure, you can add a pinch of the seeds of milk thistle to your dog's food several times a week. The seeds are very safe to use and therefore can be used as a tonic. For dogs already suffering from liver disease, a tincture or capsule of the herb can be used. Turmeric Turmeric has similar liver-protective qualities as milk thistle. In addition, turmeric is anticancerous and anti-inflammatory. It also supports the gastrointestinal system. This herb can be used as a tonic for dog liver health - just sprinkle the dry herb on your dog's food. Other "curry herbs" such as cumin, fennel, cayenne, ginger, fenugreek, etc., are also helpful for supporting the liver. Artichoke Artichoke is another great herb for liver diseases. The leaves of artichoke are used and they have similar properties as those of milk thistle, with a bit more cholesterol protective action. If your dog has a liver problem, you can sprinkle some artichoke leaves on your dog's food a few times a week as a liver tonic. Artichoke can be used in combination with milk thistle for synergistic effects. Licorice Licorice is an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. It can be fed to your dog as a tonic herb in conjunction with herbs such as turmeric and milk thistle. Yarrow Yarrow is anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial and it helps increase bile flow. It can be used as a toinc as well. Dandelion Like yarrow, dandelion also helps increase bile flow and is also mildly antimicrobial. Top Homeopathic Remedies for Dog Liver Disease Homeopathic remedies can be used in conjunction with other therapies for dog liver health. However, be sure to consult a holistic vet first before administering the remedies to your dog. Remedies that are specifically beneficial to the liver include: *Carduus marianus* This remedy is made from milk thistle, and is therefore effective in treating liver disease in dogs - especially those that are vomiting bile (green material). Dogs that need this remedy may also suffer from colic and cramping. *Chelidonium majus* This is another remedy for liver support and is effective for jaundiced dogs. Dogs needing this remedy are generally angry, domineering, and disobedient. They can be soothe by something warm - foods, drinks, and hot baths. Top Supplements for Dog Liver Health Natural supplements can be used to support dog liver health. If your dog has a weak liver, or is suffering from liver disease, these supplements are helpful: Antioxidants Antioxidants such as Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) or Superoxide dismutase (SOD) are beneficial to the liver. SOD is an enzyme that repairs cells and reduces the damage done to them by superoxide, the most common free radical in the body. Studies have shown that SOD acts as both an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory in the body, neutralizing the free radicals that can lead to precancerous cell changes. (Dosage: 125 mg/10-15 pounds of body weight daily). CoQ10 helps deliver electrical charges to the mitochondria, or powerhouses, of the cells, so that they can produce energy; i.e., sustain life. Studies also show that CoQ10 boosts immunity, lowers blood sugar, and can dramatically slow tumor growth. (Dosage: 1 mg/pound daily). Here is a good product of Coenzyme Q10: Vetri-Science Coenzyme Q10 - 10 mg Vitamins C and E are also antioxidants and can be given to your dog as a supplement for liver health. (Dosages: Vitamin E - 5 mg/pound, daily; Vitamin C - 5 mg/pound, 2-3 times a day). Other Dietary Supplements Other dietary supplements beneficial to the liver include: B vitamins Amino acids Yogurt (nonsweetened) Leafy green vegetables Top Natural Products for Dog Liver Health Newton Homeopathics Detoxifier for Dogs and Cats This homeopathic formula contains effective remedies such as Carduus marianus and Chelidonium majus and can stimulate liver and kidney function to remove toxins and improve metabolism. Only Natural Pet Liv-Herb Herbal Formula 2 oz. Milk thistle (seed) is used in this herbal formula which is designed to aid liver disorders, with antioxidant properties to help it protect the liver. It can be safely used to support dog liver health. Animals' Apawthecary Dandelion / Milk Thistle for Dogs and Cats This formula uses milk thistle (seed) and dandelion and is useful in stimulating and protecting liver function in dogs, cats and other animals that exhibit signs of liver stress or toxicity. Integrative Therapeutics Super Milk Thistle 60 Caps This formula includes milk thistle, dandelion, artichoke, and licorice - all effective herbs for liver support. This formula is for therapeutic use - it is not appropriate for use on a daily basis for healthy animals without need of liver support. Related Topic Liver Disease in Dogs References** D. Hamilton, Homeopathic Care for Cats and Dogs (North Atlantic Books, 1999). R. Kidd, Dr. Kidd's Guide to Herbal Dog Care (Storey Publishing, 2000). TOP of Natural Remedies for Dog Liver Health	Site Make-Over This site is currently undergoing a "make-over". It will take some time for all pages to transition to their new looks, so in the meantime, you will find pages in two different designs. Thank you for your understanding.
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