What is it? Milk thistle is a flowering plant native to the Mediterranean and Middle East. It has been shown to protect the liver and enhance its functioning.

How does it help? Glutathione -- a substance crucial for the liver's role in detoxification -- is depleted by alcohol. Milk thistle helps offset at least some of that depletion while also promoting the regeneration of new liver cells. Case studies have also shown milk thistle slowing the progression of cirrhosis of the liver.

How much? 400 mg per day.