Liver Extracts

What do they do? Extracts of beef (bovine) liver are a rich natural source of many vitamins and minerals, including iron. Liver extracts provide the most absorbable form of iron—heme iron—and other nutrients critical in building blood, including vitamin B12 and folic acid. Liver extracts can contain as much as 3–4 mg of heme iron per gram. In addition to its use as a source of iron, liver extracts are also used by some healthcare practitioners to support liver function and boost energy levels. Liver extracts have been tested in people with chronic liver disease. However, no clear benefit has been demonstrated.1 2

Where are they found? Liver extracts are available as nutritional supplements in capsules and tablets.

Liver extracts have been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to it for complete information):

Rating Health Concerns
3Stars Iron-deficiency anemia
3Stars Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
2Stars Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
1Star An herb is primarily supported by traditional use, or the herb or supplement has little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.

Who is likely to be deficient? As it is not an essential nutrient, no deficiency state exists.

How much is usually taken? The recommended amount depends on the concentration, method of preparation, and quality of the liver extract.

Are there any side effects or interactions? No side effects or adverse reactions have been reported. Liver extracts should not be used by people suffering from iron-storage disorders, such as hemochromatosis.

As the liver is a major filtering organ for many potentially toxic environmental chemicals, some doctors are concerned that consumption of liver extracts may result in increased intake of these chemicals.

At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with liver extracts.

References:

1. Fujisawa K, Suzuki H, Yamamoto S, et al. Therapeutic effects of liver hydrolysate preparation on chronic hepatitis—A double blind, controlled study. Asian Med J 1984;26:497–526.

2. Sanbe K, Murata T, Fujisawa K, et al. Treatment of liver disease—with particular reference to liver hydrolysates. Jap J Clin Exp Med 1973;50:2665–76.