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Page 30
soothing to the entire system and promote the flow of bile to improve digestion.
In addition to stimulating liver regeneration in cases of mushroom poisoning, liver disease and alcohol abuse, milk thistle seed is one of the most powerful yet gentle herbs for detoxification. It protects against common airborne pollutants distributed by the smoke of burning wood, tobacco, coal, oil and many commercially prepared incense products. In addition, the seed protects against X rays and the side effects of radiation therapy.
Milk thistle seed can be ground and added to food (1 teaspoon or more per meal) or brewed as a tea (see above), but it is usually taken as a tincture (1/4 teaspoon or more daily, as needed) or in capsules (1 capsule 3 or 4 times daily). Like many herbs, milk thistle seed has a gradual influence and a course of treatment lasting at least three months is recommended.
Castor oil packs. The castor oil pack is a type of fomentation or hot compress that uses pharmaceutical grade castor oil, which can be purchased in drugstores and health food stores. Many herbalists, naturopaths and other holistic health professionals use castor oil packs as a specific therapy for the liver. The procedure is simple, and though it's time-consuming, it's relaxing. More important, castor oil packs help strengthen and heal not only the liver but other systems as well.
Select a piece of wool or cotton flannel two to eight layers thick, measuring 10 by 14 inches or larger when folded; saturate with castor oil. Place the cloth on the abdomen, especially over the liver area,

 
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