Silybum marianum is undeniably the most well-known liver-protective herb. Human clinical trials have shown that milk thistle extract can normalize liver enzymes in cases of infectious hepatitis or toxin damage and increase endogenous glutathione production. Silybum marianum has also been shown to improve fasting blood glucose, insulin levels, HbA1c, and body mass index (BMI) in people with diabetes and may help reduce inflammation of the digestive tract lining.
Lesser-known hepatoprotective herbs include Cynara scolymus and Picrorhiza kurroam. Cynara scolymus is able to increase bile secretions and reduce bloating, abdominal pain, flatulence, and nausea in people with dyspepsia and IBS. Research also supports its ability to lower triglycerides, reduce LDL cholesterol, and improve liver enzymes in people with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Picrorhiza kurroam, on the other hand, has antiviral properties. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in patients with acute viral hepatitis showed that two weeks of supplementation resulted in a significant decrease in bilirubin, SGOT, and SGPT values compared to placebo.
With regard to promoting healthy renal clearance, Urticaria dioica, Arctostaphylos uva-ursi, and Arctium lappa are all effective diuretics, but each herb also has unique complementary actions. For example, urticaria dioica can improve urinary tract symptoms in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and also decrease fasting blood glucose and HbA1c in type 2 diabetics. Arctostaphylos uva-ursi exerts astringent, demulcent, and antiseptic effects on urinary tract membranes and, therefore, also protects against urinary tract infections. Finally, Arctium lappa has been shown to decrease elevated transaminase and restore glutathione levels in the liver of animals.
Collectively, these herbs are standardized to active ingredients, where appropriate, and included in Cyto-Matrix's DT-Matrix to support both healthy liver and kidney detoxification. Beta vulgaris is also added to the formula to upregulate nitric oxide production and improve blood flow throughout the body, another important step in optimal detoxification pathways. DT-Matrix is indicated to support optimal liver and kidney function or for symptoms of excessive toxic load such as low energy, headaches, malaise, constipation, and poor cognition.
Adults: Take 1 capsule 3 times daily or as directed by a healthcare professional. Take a few hours before or after other medications/health products.
Ingredients (per capsule): Beetroot extract (root, Beta vulgaris) 10:1 110 mg Artichoke extract (leaf, Cynara scolymus) 10:1 110 mg Milk thistle extract (seed, Silybum marianum) 30:1, 80% silymarin 110 mg Burdock extract (root, Articum lappa) 4:1 100 mg Nettle extract (root, Urtica dioica) 4:1 100 mg Bearberry extract (leaf, Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) 4:1 60 mg Picrorhiza extract (root, Picrorhiza kurro) 10:1, 5% kutkin 50 mg Non-medicinal ingredients: Vegetable-grade magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose. Capsule: hypromellose.