Bot Wk 3 Flashcards
What is NAFLD?
non-alcoholic fatty liver disease characterized by excess fat accumulation in the liver not due to alcohol consumption
What are the key treatment principles for NAFLD?
- focus on dietary changes
- exercise
- using bitter and cool flavour herbal formulas
Name a primary herb used fro NAFLD and its action
Barberry (Berberis vulgaris) - hepatic, regulates blood sugar and has antimicrobial properties
What is the role of Gentian (Gentiana lutea) in the treatment of NAFLD?
it is a strong bitter that improves digestion
What is the sample formula for treating NAFLD?
Gentian (20 mL)
Barberry (30 mL)
Peony (30 mL)
Ginger (10 mL)
What is the recommended dosage for the tincture for the sample formula?
2 tsp, 2-3 times per day between meals
What dietary changes should be made to manage NAFLD?
- avoid sugar, dairy, alcohol, and fried foods
- incorporate bitter foods to stimulate liver function
what are the expected outcomes of using the herbal formula for NAFLD?
Objective decrease in measurable adipose tissue surrounding the liver
What is the action of Burdock (Arctium lappa)?
- Alterative
- hepatic
- mild laxative
How does Peony (Paeonia lactiflora) contribute to the formula?
it harmonizes the actions of the formula and supports female endocrine health
What is the primary action of Schisandra (Schisandra sinensis)?
- Adaptogen
- Astringent
- Hepatoprotective
- Alterative
What are the cautions associated with Barberry?
non-toxic but very strongly bitter; avoid pregnancy and lactation
What is the significance of using bitter herbs in treating fatty liver?
bitters stimulate the digestive system and enhance liver function by promoting bile flow
What are the primary actions of Yellow Dock (Rumex crispus)?
- alterative
- laxative
- hepatic
- astringent
- mild adaptogen
What is the recommended duration for the initial higher dosage of the herbal formula?
10-14 days, after which the dose can be reduced
What should be monitored when using the herbal formula?
This formula is cold and bitter. Watch for signs of digestion getting cold, and add a cup of ginger tea after meals
What is the action of Gentian in relation to digestion?
It acts as a silagogue, stimulating saliva production and improving digestion
What are the indications for using Burdock (Arctium lappa)?
- hepatic congestion
- sluggish bowels
- eczema
- IBS
- type II diabetes
What is the role of dietary changes in the treatment of NAFLD?
they are essential alongside herbal treatments to achieve better outcomes
What is the expected improvement from the herbal formula when combined with lifestyle changes?
moderate improvement in liver health and stabilization of liver enzymes
what are the primary actions of Peony (Paeonia lactiflora)?
- female endocrine modulator
- alterative
- antispasmodic
- mild adaptogen
What is the significance of Liver Qi stagnation in NAFLD?
it is often present and contributes to the condition, requiring treatment to clear heat and dissolve phlegm
What are the potential herb-drug interactions with Berberis vulgaris? Barberry
it may augment the effect of diabetes medications
What is the action of Andrographis (Andrographis paniculata)?
it has various actions, including being hepatoprotective and anti-inflammatory
