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Liv Safe's organic hybrid Artichoke/Sarsaparilla Extract (ASE) is a clinically time tested dietary supplement. ASE has over 20 years of successful history in clinical use on tens of thousands of patients to help maintain normal liver and gall bladder functions. ASE is a gentle detoxifier, digestive aid and a liver, gall bladder and bowel normalizer.
The hybrid artichoke provides a very unique flavone complex. The raw material processing does not just combine the artichoke and sarsaparilla extracts. The ingredients are combined in such a synergistic way that flavone compounds are created that do not exist in either of the plants individually.
Comparison to Milk Thistle: The active ingredient in Milk Thistle is the flavonoid silymarin. Liv Safe contains silymarin plus the entire plant complex of other flavonoids. The liver cleansing properties of Liv Safe and Milk Thistle are comparatively equal. However, in addition to cleansing the liver, Liv Safe also cleanses the gall bladder. While Milk Thistle and Liv Safe both stimulate the increased production of bile in the liver, only Liv Safe stimulates the increased bile release from the gall bladder into the small intestines. This mechanism allows Liv Safe to reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels, which Milk Thistle does not do.
Hytoned is proud to bring this unique time tested formula from clinics to the retail consumers as an innovative and effective alternative to Milk Thistle for supporting liver and gall bladder functions.
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The hybrid artichoke extract supports the liver and gall bladder by gently accelerating bile flow, the liver and gall bladder's natural toxin elimination process. This process helps to maintain normal blood cholesterol and blood lipid levels (triglycerides and cholesterol). The hybrid artichoke extract also provides cell protective qualities.
Sarsaparilla acts as a blood purifier, diuretic and diaphoretic (increased perspiration). Sarsaparilla may dramatically improve psoriasis and has antibiotic properties.
The combination of concentrated extracts of the buds of this particular hybrid artichoke and sarsaparilla shows a highly synergistic effect when addressing various conditions related to liver pathology.
Use Liv Safe for daily liver/gallbladder function support and cleansing the liver/gallbladder from sources of detrimental toxins such as cigarette/cigar smoke, alcohol, hepatoxic drugs and environmental factors. All of which can have damaging hepatoxic side effects.
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Liv Safe contains high concentrations of polyphenols and flavonoids, which offer a wealth of additional health benefits.
Flavonoids scavenge free radicals to provide excellent antioxidant properties. Free radicals are unstable molecules that have lost an electron and will steal electrons from healthy cell molecules. Flavonoids donate electrons to neutralize free radicals and protect healthy cells.
Liv Safe will boost energy levels. The flavonoids in Liv Safe increase energy levels at the cellular level by catalyzing electron transport!
Flavonoids in Liv Save also bind to enzymes, hormone carriers and chelate metals. This means that flavonoids act as carrier molecules to facilitate molecule transport through the cellular membrane. This results in increased nutrients carried into the cell and aids in removing toxic metals from cells. This also has the effect of enhancing the absorption of other dietary supplements!
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Liv Safe supports the immune system. The majority of immune cells in the body reside in the digestive tract. The phytosterols (plant fats) in Liv Safe have important immune regulating activities.
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Many common symptoms such as bad breath, headaches, mental confusion, muscle pain, nerve problems, fatigue, skin irritations and emotional imbalances can be the result of over exposure to toxins. If liver function is improved by the removal of toxins, then the entire body will benefit and these symptoms can be reduced or alleviated.
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COMPARATIVE STUDY BETWEEN A COMPLEX OF FLAVONIODS AND POLYPHENOLS CREATED FROM EXTRACTS OF ARTICHOKE AND SARASPARILLA (LIV SAFE formula used) AND A PLACEBO IN ALCOHOL RELATED LIVER DISEASE
AUTHORS
A. DIAZ * L. HIDALGO * F. NOGUEZ
CLINICA CAPRA HOSPITAL GENERAL DE MEXICO
DECEMBER 12, 1998
PREVIOUS STUDY AND ABSTRACT
A previous study using this same material was performed in 1996 using a 15-day protocol. The abstract was presented June 7, 1996, at the International Conference of Hepatology at the Militar School of Medicine in Mexico City.
Comparative Study Between a Complex of Flavonoids and Polyphenols (Liv Safe) and
Placebo in Hepatic Disease Due to Alcohol
Diaz, L. Hidalgo, F. Noguez, Capra Clinic, General Hospital of Mexico
The effects of a flavonoid and polyphenol complex (Liv Safe) extracted from the edible portion of the artichoke (bud) and the root of sarsaparilla, was studied with alcohol-related hepatic disease. The composition of the product was a mixture containing the following: hesperidin (16%), rutin (7%), isorhamnetin (11%), cynarin (13%), apigenin (8%), silymarin (3%), and catechins (42%). The study was constructed using a randomized double-blind, placebo protocol with 60 patients diagnosed with hepatic disease due to extensive use of alcohol. The patients were divided into two groups of 30 each. Group I received the Liv Safe flavonoid complex in two (2) tablets taken prior to each meal for a total of six (6) tablets daily for fifteen days. Each tablet weighed 700 mgs. corresponding to 550 mgs. of flavonoids. Group II received the placebo in identical presentation.
Several laboratory tests of hepatic function were performed including: hematic cytology, blood analysis, prothrombin time, urine tests, etc, as well as clinical evaluations before beginning the treatment and upon ending the same. The results obtained were evaluated statistically with the t of student system. These results were also evaluated using the Maddrey and Orrego indices for both groups at the beginning and at the end of the study. Percentages of average recovery were calculated for both groups using these same indices, as well as for each parameter evaluated.
The percentages of recovery with respect to the indexes are the following:
Using the Maddrey index, group I obtained a 30.09% recovery, while group II worsened overall obtaining a -4.5% recovery. Using the Orrego index, group I obtained a 23.46% recovery, and group II recovered 0.7%. The test t of Student demonstrated that both groups of treated subjects were comparable and that the obtained results are meaningful with a significance of p<0.005.
This complex of flavonoids demonstrated efficacy in the treatment of hepatic disease due to extended use of alcohol. These positive results could possibly be due to their antioxidant effects, hepato-protective qualities, and / or cellular membrane regenerators.
METHODOLOGY OF MEDICAL STUDY
Because of the positive effects of this artichoke/saraparilla extracts in a previous study with patients suffering from chronic alcoholic liver disease (see above), another study using the same parameters was performed. However, treatment time and the prescribed dosage were increased. Patients chosen for this study were those who had been diagnosed with chronic alcoholic liver disease caused by excessive ingestion of alcohol (excessive ingestion being defined as one (1) to one and one half (1 1/2) liters of tequila or brandy per day for extended periods of time). The patients were diagnosed and chosen in the Clinic par La Attention de Problemas Relacionados con el Alcohol (CAPRA) at the General Hospital in Mexico City, which belongs to the Secretaria de Salud (Equivalent to the U.S. Department of Health). (Translation: Clinic for the Attention of Problems Related to Alcohol)
The study chosen was a randomized double blind placebo study in which neither the treating physicians in charge or the patients knew to whom the real product or the placebo was administered. Sixty (60) patients were divided in a random way into two (2) groups of thirty (30) each. Of these sixty test subjects, 53 were male and 7 were female with ages running from 26 years of age to 52 years of age (average age 37.3 years). All of the patients had initial tests made of liver performance, hepatic cytology, blood analysis, prothrombin time, urine tests, and clinical examination. These same tests were completed again at the end of the study. The treatment lasted thirty (30) days and each patient took three capsules (420 mgs each) three times per day.
DEFINITION OF PARAMETERS AND RESULTS EXPRESSED IN PERCENTAGES
To make this report useful and keep misinterpretations to a minimum, it was important that we defined the following clinical parameters, laboratory analysis, and results in a clear and simple way. The following results have been expressed in percent improvement, which was determined using two indices, the Maddrey and Orrego (see references below). Results were measured before and after treatment, calculating the difference, and expressing these results as a percentage of recuperation.
Maddrey, C.; Willis, Boitnott, K.; Bedine, S.; Weber, L.: Fredrick; Mezey, E.; White, R.; Corticosteriod Therapy of Alcoholic Hepatitis. Gastroenterology 75: 193-199. 1978.
Orrego, H.; Kalant, H.; Israel, Y.; Blake, J.; Medline, A.; Rankin, J.; Armstrong, A.;
Kapur, B.; Effect of Short- Term Therapy with Propylthiouracil in Patients with
Alcoholic Liver Disease. Gastroenterology 76; 105-115. 1978.
Ascites
Ascites is the effusion and accumulation of serous fluid in the abdominal cavity. It is found commonly in those diagnosed with liver disease.
A 72.38% reduction of ascites was observed in the experimental group. The placebo group experienced a 6.35% increase in abdominal fluid.
Encephalopathy
Encephalopathy is a degenerative disease of the brain. Hepatic encephalopathy is a condition usually occurring secondary to advance disease of the liver. It is marked by disturbances of consciousness, which may progress to deep coma(hepatic coma), psychiatric changes of varying degree, flapping tremor and hepaticas. It is also referred to as portal-systemic encephalopathy.
A 66.08% reduction of encephalopathy was obtained in the experimental group. The placebo group saw a 12.24% increase in these symptoms.
Splenomegaly
Splenomegaly is enlargement of the spleen. Congestive splenomegaly often results from cirrhosis of the liver and is also characterized by anemia and hemorrhages.
An 88.40% reduction in spleen enlargement was noted with the treated group. The placebo group worsened by 11.54%.
Hepatomegaly
Hepatomegaly is enlargement of the liver. It is seen as a result of cirrhosis, fatty infiltration, passive congestion, and early biliary obstruction.
The treated group experienced a 93.33% reduction in enlarged livers. In the placebo group their livers continued to enlarge by another 7.14%.
Weakness
Weakness is defined as lacking physical strength or vigor, asthenia, cardiasthenia, fatigue, and lassitude.
The treated group noted a 73.64% increase in strength. There was a decrease in muscle strength by 7.41% in the placebo group.
Peripheral Edema
Peripheral edema is a condition in which the peripherals body tissues contain an excessive amount of tissue fluid. It results from increased permeability of the capillary walls due to possible disturbances in renal functioning, reduction of plasma proteins, fluid and electrolyte imbalances, and malnutrition.
Edema in the extremities of the treated patients decreased by 48.21%. There was no change in the placebo group.
Hemorrhages
A hemorrhage is bleeding. Many alcoholics present with massive upper GI bleeding from esophageal varices secondary to portal hypertension, increased pressure in the portal vein as a result of obstruction of the flow of blood through liver.
The treated group noted a 100.00% decrease in capillary hemorrhaging in the skin, gums, and nasal membranes. The placebo group saw an increase of 28.57% in hemorrhaging.
Anorexia
Anorexia is defined as loss of appetite. Anorexia is seen in depression, malaise, commencement of fevers and illness, also in disorders of the alimentary tract, especially the stomach, and as a result of alcoholic excesses, drug addiction or certain medicines.
Anorexia decreased in the treated group by 76.98%. The placebo group noted a decrease of 3.70%.
Abdominal Wall Veins
Abdominal Wall Veins are very tortuous (having many twists of turns) veins visible throughout the abdomen of the patient. Related to acites.
The experimental group saw a 60.62% reduction while the placebo group experienced a 3.33% reduction.
Palmar Erythema
Palmar erthema is reddish and swollen palms due to muscular hypertrophy (progressive degeneration and functional loss of cells and tissues).
The Liv Safe® group experienced a 26.67% reduction in palmar erythema and there was no change with the placebo group.
Telangiectasia
Telangiectasia is a vascular lesion formed by dilatation of a group of small blood vessels of the skin.
The Liv Safe® group saw 60.00% reduction in these lesions. While in the placebo group there was a 3.33% reduction.
Bilirubin is the predominant pigment of human bile and it gives the bile a golden yellow color. Total serum bilirubin may be increased in cirrhosis of the liver and acute viral hepatitis.
The experimental (Liv Safe®) group saw a 38. 95% reduction in total bilirubin and the placebo group saw a 5.68% increase.
Alkaline Phosphatase
Alkaline Phosphatase is an enzyme that hydrolyzes monophosphoric centers liberating inorganic phosphate. Its optimum pH is about 9.0 (alkaline) and functions in the mineralization process of bone. The liver excretes it. Hence its levels increase in the blood whenever an obstructed liver condition exists.
Patients taking the Liv-1 obtained a 25.91% reduction in alkaline phosphatase blood levels and the placebo group saw and increases of 11.69%.
Serum Glutamic Oxaloacetic Transaminase (SGOT)
Serum Glutamic Oxaloacetic Transaminase (SGOT) is an enzyme distributed throughout all tissues, but especially found in high concentrations in the heart and liver. SGOT is increased in cases of hepatitis, hepatic necrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatic metastasis. SGOT is now more commonly referred to as aspartate aminotransferase.
The treated group noted a decrease of 23.83% in SGOT levels. The placebo group experienced a worsening of 11.71%.
Prothrombin Time
Prothrombin time is a test of clotting time made by determining the time for clotting to occur after thromboplastin and calcium are added to decalcified plasma
There was a decrease in prothrombin time in the experimental group of 42.00%. An increase in clotting time was noted in the placebo group of 6.60%.
Serum Albumin
Serum albumin is one of a group of simple proteins widely distributed in tissues. It is found in the blood. Low levels of albumin in blood plasma are associated with a pathologic condition of the liver.
The experimental group saw an increase in serum albumin of 37.27%. There was a decrease in the placebo group of 1.95%.
Gamma Glutamyl Transpeptidase (GGT)
GGT is a tissue enzyme that is elevated in many conditions involving hepatic damage including alcohol-induced injury in patients with renal disease, pancreatitis, diabetes mellitus, and coronary artery disease.
The treated group noted a reduction of 23.79% in GGT. The placebo group experienced an increase of 9.92%.
In conclusion, this double-blind study on 60 patients suffering from alcoholic related liver disease saw improvements in the following conditions:
· Ascites — effusion and accumulation of serous fluid in the abdominal cavity.
· Hepatic encephalopathy — a degenerative disease of the brain occurring secondary to advance liver disease.
· Splenomegaly — enlargement of the spleen.
· Weakness — lacking physical strength, excessive fatigue.
· Peripheral edema — a condition in which the peripheral body tissues contains an excessive amount of tissue fluid.
· Hemorrhages — bleeding
· Anorexia — loss of appetite.
· Total bilirubin level — the predominant pigment of human bile and it gives the bile a golden yellow color. Total serum bilirubin may be increased in cirrhosis of the liver and acute viral hepatitis.
· Serum Glutamic Oxaloacetic Transaminase (SGOT) — an enzyme distributed throughout all body tissues, but especially found in high concentrations in the heart and liver. SGOT is increased in cases of hepatitis, hepatic necrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatic metastasis.
· Prothrombine time — a test of clotting time made by determining the time for clotting to occur after thromboplastin and calcium are added to decalcified plasma.
· Serum albumin — one of a group of simple proteins widely distributed throughout body tissues; high concentrations are found in the blood. Low levels of albumin in blood plasma are associated with a pathologic condition of the liver.
Directions of use
Recommended dose is three capsules (420 mg) taken one half hour before meals. Patients participating in the double-blind study took three capsules at once three times per day for a total of 3780 milligrams per day for a period of only fifteen days. Please keep in mind that these individuals consumed an average of one to one and one half liters of alcohol per day before participating in this study. While patients taking the placebo saw an overall increase in symptoms during this same period.
Availability
Liv Safe® is a spray dried concentrate obtaining a fine brown, red powder. It is available in bulk powder, encapsulated in 420 mg two piece gelatin capsules in 90 count bottles.
HISTORY
Currently there is much interest in the health benefits of various phytochemicals. Many of the protective qualities of foods have been attributed to the antioxidant capabilities of such nutrients as the carotenoids, tocopherols, and Vitamin C. Recent research, however, points to a specific group of C15 aromatic plant pigments, called flavonoids, which offer many active principles in medicinal plants. This group of aromatic compounds includes the chalcones, dihydroflavones (flavanones), flavones, isoflavones, biflavonoids, dihydroflavonols, flavonols, anthocyanidins, and proanthocyanidins. Presently there are over 4000 individual flavoniod compounds known.
A single plant may contain several flavonoids with distribution being specific to various parts of the plant. Flavonoids play different roles in each part of the plant. For instance, because of their attractive colors, flavonols, flavones, and anthocyanidins are helpful in signaling pollinating insects. Catechins and other flavonols have astringent qualities that protect the plant by keeping other insects away. Some flavonoids have UV absorbing properties and protect the plant from harmful UV radiation from the sun. While others participate in the light phase of plant photosynthesis.
Historically, flavonoids have been described for treating diabetes mellitus, allergy, cancer, viral infections, headache, stomach and duodenal ulcer, liver pathology, and inflammation They can bind to enzymes, hormone carriers, and DNA; chelate metal ions such as iron, copper, zinc, and manganese; catalyze electron transport; and scavenge free radicals. Most researchers conclude that the pharmacological effect of flavonoids is due to their inhibition of certain enzymes, their metal chelating abilities, and their antioxidant activity.
Liv Safe® is a complex of flavonoids and polyphenols created from extracts of a hybrid artichoke (Cynara floridanum) and sarsaparilla root(Smilax aristolochiaefolia). The formula has been used clinically for almost 30 years in various private medical settings throughout the U.S. and Central and South America with favorable results in addressing many liver and gall bladder disorders. A comprehensive chemical analysis has not been performed at this time. However, a partial analysis for certain flavonoids and polyphenols has been accomplished. This analysis has shown levels of quercetin, kaempferol, isorhamnetin, catechin, silymarin, cynarin, and polyphenols as caffeic acid and chiorogenic acid. The patented extraction process, obtaining the water and fat-soluble principles, is responsible for high concentrations of active ingredients without using artificial additives, preservatives, stabilizers, or dangerous solvents.
The Liv Safe® formula was developed by a group of three researchers including a biochemist specializing in pharmacology, a physician whose specialty is liver disease, and a chemist specializing in plant research. This formula has been used in clinical settings.
The artichoke has been used historically in the United States and Europe to treat such conditions as sluggish liver, poor digestion, arteriosclerosis, elevated triglycerides and cholesterol, decreased bile secretion, kidney diseases, diabetes and proteinuria. In Honduras and Mexico, sarsaparilla is used to treat rheumatism. And in the United States and China, sarsaparilla has been used to treat arthritis, cancer, skin disease, venereal disease, fevers, and digestive disorders. And in one Chinese study, sarsaparilla was found to be 90% effective in treating syphilis. Sarsaparilla has been used during this last century as a blood purifier and anti-toxin.
Flavonoids including quercetin, silymarin, isorhamnetin, and (+) - catechin have been used for their anti-hepatitis activity. However, research has found that a combination of concentrated extracts of the buds of this particular hybrid artichoke and sarsaparilla shows a highly synergistic effect when addressing various conditions related to liver pathology.
PHYSIOLOGY
Animal studies have shown this complex to increase tissue irrigation by acting on the venous and capillary circulation. It has been shown to activate energy metabolism within the cell by increasing the consumption of glucose and oxygen as well as the synthesis of ATP. Flavonoids found in this complex also have anti-oxidant, anti-viral, and anti-tumor activities and are also known to improve the protein links within the cellular membranes as well as the cell membranes of organelles within the cells.
The artichoke has historically been found to stimulate bile flow and other digestive substances, which can improve digestion. It also can improve liver metabolism and promote detoxification of the body. Sarsaparilla has a therapeutic action as a diuretic (increase urine output), demulcent (smoothes mucous membranes), diaphoretic (increase perspiration), depurant (removes waste products), tonic, stimulant, and antiscorbutic (treatment of scurvy). Synergistically, these two concentrates give us a product that normalizes liver metabolism, protects hepatocytes (liver cells) against alcohol and chemical toxicity, and promotes the detoxification of the body.
