AYURVEDIC PERSPECTIVE ON CHOLAGOGUE

Cholagogues stimulate the production & release of bile from the liver & gallbladder. This refreshes and cleanses these organs, as well as increases bile in the small intestines.

Cholagogues encourage the gallbladder to release bile, and the the liver to produce and dilute bile. This action cleanses both the liver and gallbladder, and helps to prevent gallstones. As the liver is naturally congested in Spring, cholagogues are an essential remedy from February to May.

Effect on the Blood

Cholagogues refresh the liver by cleansing it of hot, toxic bile, improving the liver's ability to detoxify and normalize blood chemistry. For this reason cholagogues have an alterative, detoxifying effect on the blood. Chologogues cool the blood, generally reducing Pitta and Kapha. When overused, cholagogues dry out the liver and can increase Vata.

Effect on Fat Metabolism & Triglycerides

Since bile is fatty and the primary pathway for cholesterol metabolism, releasing bile also reduces cholesterol and boosts fat metabolism. Cholagogues directly reduce triglyceride levels in the blood (hypolipidemic).

Effect on Bowel Elimination

As bile is a natural digestive irritant, cholagogues have a laxative effect on the bowels. Kapha individuals with thick, sluggish bile often suffer from constipation. A tell-tale sign of this is light colored stools. Chologogues are the laxative of choice for constipation due to bile insufficiency.

What kinds of supplements are cholagogues?

Anything bitter, sour, our oily has a cholagogue effect, as does fiber. Some famous examples include.

• Beets
• Dandelion
• Lemons
• Vinegar
• Aloe vera
• Bhumyamalaki
• Bitter Ghee (Tikta Ghrta)

INGREDIENTS WITH CHOLAGOGUE QUALITY

Browse Cholagogue Recipes

HERBS & SUPPLEMENTS WITH CHOLAGOGUE QUALITY

OTHER HERB ACTIONS AFFECTING LIVER-GALLBLADDER

HELPFUL FOR*

'Cholagogue' may be helpful for these symptoms and causes below.

About the Author

John Immel, the founder of Joyful Belly, teaches people how to have a healthy diet and lifestyle with Ayurveda biocharacteristics. His approach to Ayurveda is clinical, yet exudes an ease which many find enjoyable and insightful. John also directs Joyful Belly's School of Ayurveda, offering professional clinical training in Ayurveda for over 15 years.

John's interest in Ayurveda and specialization in digestive tract pathology was inspired by a complex digestive disorder acquired from years of international travel, as well as public service work in South Asia. John's commitment to the detailed study of digestive disorders reflects his zeal to get down to the roots of the problem. His hope and belief in the capacity of each & every client to improve their quality of life is nothing short of a personal passion. John's creativity in the kitchen and delight in cooking for others comes from his family oriented upbringing. In addition to his certification in Ayurveda, John holds a bachelor's degree in mathematics from Harvard University.

John enjoys sharing Ayurveda within the context of his Catholic roots, and finds Ayurveda gives him an opportunity to participate in the healing mission of the Church. Jesus expressed God's love by feeding and healing the sick. That kindness is the fundamental ministry of Ayurveda as well. Outside of work, John enjoys spending time with his wife and 6 kids, and pursuing his love of theology, philosophy, and language.

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