Fatty Liver, Home Remedies & Hijama/Wet Cupping Therapy.

Understanding Fatty Liver Disease and Natural Ways to Support Liver Health

A small amount of fat in the liver is considered normal, but when fat builds up excessively, it can lead to significant liver dysfunction and long-term complications. The liver, one of the largest internal organs in the body, sits in the upper right section of the abdomen and plays a crucial role in keeping you healthy.

What Is Fatty Liver Disease?

Fatty liver disease, medically referred to as hepatic steatosis, occurs when fat accumulates in the liver cells. While some fat in the liver is harmless, if it accounts for more than 10% of the organ’s weight, it can interfere with normal liver function and increase the risk of liver inflammation, scarring, or even failure.

Key Roles of the Liver

The liver performs over 500 vital processes, including:

• Converting food into energy

• Detoxifying harmful substances

• Producing bile for fat digestion

• Supporting blood clotting

• Storing essential vitamins and minerals

• Strengthening the immune system

• Regulating cholesterol and hormones

Types of Fatty Liver Disease

1. Alcohol-Related Fatty Liver Disease (ARLD)

Caused by excessive alcohol intake, ARLD damages liver cells due to toxic by-products created during alcohol metabolism. Prolonged alcohol use can lead to:

• Alcoholic hepatitis – liver inflammation causing pain, fever, and jaundice

• Alcoholic cirrhosis – permanent scarring and liver dysfunction

• Enlarged liver (hepatomegaly) – causing abdominal discomfort and fatigue

2. Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)

NAFLD is increasingly common and not linked to alcohol use. It often develops due to:

• Obesity

• Type 2 diabetes

• High cholesterol or triglycerides

• Insulin resistance

There are two subtypes:

• Simple fatty liver – fat accumulation without inflammation

• Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) – fat build-up with inflammation and liver cell damage, potentially leading to cirrhosis or liver cancer

Symptoms of Fatty Liver Disease

Fatty liver is often symptomless in its early stages, which is why it’s called a “silent” condition. However, some people may experience:

• Tiredness or persistent fatigue

• Abdominal discomfort or bloating

• Unexplained weight loss or weight gain

• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)

• Swollen abdomen (ascites)

• Mental fog or confusion

• Skin discolouration (particularly around the neck or underarms)

Risk Factors

• Obesity

• Excess alcohol consumption

• Family history of liver disease

• High blood pressure or cholesterol

• Type 2 diabetes

• Smoking

• Certain medications

• Hepatitis C infection

• Ageing

• Pregnancy (Acute Fatty Liver of Pregnancy – AFLP)

Natural Ways to Support Liver Health

1. Avoid Alcohol

If alcohol is a contributing factor, stopping consumption can significantly improve liver function over time.

2. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Losing 7–10% of your body weight can significantly reduce fat levels in the liver and improve overall liver health.

3. Eat a Liver-Friendly Diet

Focus on:

• High-fibre foods: oats, legumes, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables

• Leafy greens: kale, spinach, and broccoli protect liver tissue

• Antioxidant-rich herbs: turmeric, ginger, cardamom, and rosemary

• Reduce sugar and processed foods: especially high-fructose products

• Healthy fats: found in avocados, nuts, seeds, and oily fish

4. Hydration

Drinking plenty of water aids detoxification and supports the liver in flushing out waste effectively.

5. Exercise Regularly

Moderate physical activity enhances liver function, reduces fat deposits, and supports metabolism. Aim for at least 150 minutes of exercise each week.

6. Dry Brushing

Dry brushing the skin is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that stimulates blood flow, supports lymphatic drainage, and may aid liver detox when used in conjunction with healthy lifestyle habits.

7. Hijama Cupping Therapy for Liver Support

Hijama (wet cupping) is a holistic therapy that uses vacuum cups to stimulate blood flow and remove toxins. This therapy can support liver function by:

• Enhancing blood circulation to liver tissues

• Supporting detox pathways

• Reducing inflammation

• Balancing iron and glucose levels in the blood

• Improving liver cell regeneration

• Helping manage conditions such as NAFLD, hepatitis, and metabolic imbalances

Regular Hijama therapy may contribute to improved liver function and overall health when used alongside medical care and lifestyle changes.

8. Herbal Supplements

Several herbs have shown promise in supporting liver health:

• Turmeric – powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant

• Dandelion root – supports detox and bile production

• Beetroot – rich in fibre and folic acid, promotes detoxification

• Ginger – supports circulation and liver nutrient absorption

• Cardamom – may reduce fat build-up and liver stress

• Astragalus root – used in traditional Chinese medicine to support immunity and liver repair

9. Home Remedies

• Aloe vera juice – supports detox and liver cell function

• Apple cider vinegar – helps regulate blood sugar and cholesterol

• Lemon water – contains vitamin C and antioxidants that support liver repair

• Green tea – boosts metabolism and reduces fat accumulation

• Turmeric tea & ginger tea – support anti-inflammatory liver benefits

In Summary

Fatty liver disease is a growing concern but can often be reversed with the right lifestyle choices. A nutrient-rich diet, regular exercise, hydration, and supportive natural therapies such as Hijama cupping may significantly improve liver health. If you're managing liver issues or looking to improve your overall wellbeing, now is the time to take action.

⚠️ Important Medical Precaution

The content shared in this blog is intended for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional before beginning any complementary treatment, including Hijama (wet cupping) therapy.

🚫 Conditions & Situations Requiring Medical Clearance or Contraindication:

• Pregnancy – Hijama should not be performed during pregnancy due to potential risks to the mother and baby.

• Anaemia – Low haemoglobin or red blood cell counts require controlled cupping and medical supervision.

• Heart Disease – Cardiac conditions may be affected by changes in circulation during Hijama.

• Diabetes – Poorly controlled diabetes can delay healing and increase infection risk.

• Clotting Disorders or Blood Thinners – These increase the risk of excessive bleeding or bruising and require medical approval.

• Low Blood Pressure – Cupping may further lower blood pressure, which can lead to dizziness or fainting.

• Cancer (Active or Recent) – Those undergoing cancer treatment may have compromised immunity or increased risks during therapy.

• HIV or Hepatitis C/D – These viral infections impact the immune system and liver. Hijama must only be considered with specialist medical guidance and in a strictly controlled setting.

• Infections – Wet cupping should never be performed if there is an active infection present in the body.

• Weakened Immune System or Recent Surgery – Individuals recovering from surgery or with suppressed immunity are more vulnerable to complications.

• Steroid Use (including corticosteroids) – Long-term or high-dose use of steroids can suppress the immune system, thin the skin, and delay healing. This increases the risk of post-cupping side effects such as bruising or infection. Medical advice is essential before proceeding with treatment.

• Liver or Kidney Disease – These organs play key roles in detoxifying the blood; Hijama may place stress on these systems if they are impaired.

• Severe Varicose Veins or Vascular Conditions – Performing Hijama on or near compromised veins can cause further damage or blood vessel rupture.

• Neurological Disorders (e.g. epilepsy, multiple sclerosis) – Such conditions may require specialist assessment before cupping.

• Severe Mental Health Conditions – Clients with untreated severe mental illness (e.g. psychosis, schizophrenia) may not be suitable candidates for treatment due to the nature of the therapy.

• Immunosuppressive Medication (e.g. chemotherapy, transplant medication) – Increases risk of infection and delayed healing.

• Eating Disorders or Severe Malnutrition – Individuals with very low body weight or nutrient deficiencies may not tolerate cupping well.

• Severe Allergies or Anaphylaxis History – If you have known allergies to oils, latex, or other substances, please let us know in advance.

• Under 18 or Over 65 Years of Age – Cupping for children and the elderly must be approached with caution due to sensitive skin and potential underlying health concerns.

• Skin Conditions, Open Wounds, or Infected Areas – Hijama should never be carried out on inflamed, broken, or infected skin.

✅ Our Commitment to Safe Practice

At Pure Hijama Cupping Therapist, we provide a clean, clinical, and respectful environment. All treatments are delivered by a qualified, experienced, and fully insured practitioner using sterile and controlled techniques tailored to your individual needs.

Your health comes first. If you are uncertain about your eligibility for Hijama, please contact us or speak to your GP before proceeding with treatment.

📍 For Bookings & Enquiries:

🌐 Website: www.pure-hijama-cupping-therapist.co.uk
📞 Phone: 07561373918
📧 Email: info@pure-hijama-cupping-therapist.co.uk
📍 Location: Whalley Range, Manchester, United Kingdom
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