Cholagogue and choleretic

Cholagigue and choleretic herbs support liver and gallbladder function by stimulating bile flow and secretion. Cholagogues that stimulate the release of stored bile from the gallbladder into the duodenum, aiding fat digestion and elimination of waste, whilst choleretics enhance bile production in the liver.

Herbs with these actions support detoxification, nutrient absorption and support digestive function through combined laxative and alterative effects. Cholagogues are contraindicated in cases of acute liver failure, obstructive jaundice, painful gallstones or cholecystitis.

Examples include greater celandine leaf (Chelidonium majus), barberry (Berberis vulgaris), dandelion root and leaf (Taraxacum officinale) and blue flag root (Iris versicolor).