What is a Choleretic?

Similar in function but distinct from Cholagogues, these are herbs that specifically increase the volume of bile produced by the liver. They maybe active Hepatic stimulants, Bitters, or Alteratives.

How Choleretics Work

By stimulating the production of bile, the body it better able to release toxins and through acting as a natural laxative and improving detox capacity of cells and tissues.

Herbal Examples

• Curcuma longa (Turmeric)
• Chionanthus virginicus (Fringetree)
• Hydrastis canadensis (Goldenseal)

• Adapted from David Hoffman’s ‘The Herbal Handbook: A User’s Guide to Medical Herbalism”.