Herbs & Remedies

Liver Care: Kasni, Makoh, Haldi and Other Herbs Used in Desi Tradition

The liver (جگر / jigar) is one of the hardest working organs in the body. It cleans the blood, helps digest fat and stores energy. Oily food, sugar, some medicines, alcohol and infections like hepatitis all put it under pressure. In Unani Tibb, a few herbs have long been used to support liver wellness. This guide explains them simply, and also tells you the warning signs that need a doctor, not herbs.

Signs your liver needs attention

Yellow eyes or skin (jaundice / یرقان)
Dark urine and pale stool
Pain or heaviness on the right side under the ribs
Constant tiredness and loss of appetite
Swelling in the stomach or legs

If you have any of these signs, see a doctor first. Hepatitis B and C are common in Pakistan and need proper tests and treatment.

Herbs traditionally used for liver wellness

1. Kasni (کاسنی) / Chicory

Kasni is one of the most famous liver herbs in Unani Tibb. Its seeds and roots are used in many traditional liver and digestion nuskhay. A common home use is kasni qehwa: boil one teaspoon of seeds in a cup of water and drink it warm.

2. Makoh (مکوہ) / Black nightshade

Makoh is another classic Unani herb for the liver. It is usually used as a dried herb in qehwa or in combination with Kasni. Makoh should be taken only in dried, properly prepared form from a trusted source.

3. Haldi (ہلدی) / Turmeric

Haldi is found in every Pakistani kitchen and is well known for its colour and warm taste. Using haldi in daily cooking and a pinch in warm milk is a gentle, traditional habit. People with gallstones or on blood thinners should ask a doctor before taking large amounts.

4. Amla (آملہ)

Amla is rich in vitamin C and is traditionally used as a general tonic. It can be taken as powder, murabba or fresh fruit in season. See our Amla Murabba and Amla powder.

5. Triphala (تری پھلا)

Triphala supports digestion and regular bowel movement, which is often linked to a lighter feeling overall. Read our qabz guide for how people use it.

A liver friendly daily routine

Start the day with warm water, not sugary tea.
Eat home cooked food with less oil and ghee.
Have fruits, salad, daal and whole grains every day.
Walk for 30 minutes daily and keep a healthy weight. Fatty liver is very common with belly fat.
Avoid soft drinks, packaged juices and too much sugar.
Never take painkillers or any medicine without need.

How to check the quality of these herbs

Kasni seeds should be clean, light brown and free from dust. Dried Makoh should be dark but not mouldy. Haldi should be bright yellow orange with a strong smell. Dull, faded herbs are usually old stock.

Common myths about liver cleansing

Myth: “A 3 day detox cleans your liver.” Fact: the liver cleans itself. What helps most is less sugar, less oil, a healthy weight and no alcohol.
Myth: “Herbs can cure hepatitis.” Fact: hepatitis needs medical diagnosis and treatment. Herbs are for general wellness only.
Myth: “Only people who drink alcohol get liver disease.” Fact: fatty liver from obesity and diabetes is now very common in Pakistan.

Frequently asked questions

What is Kasni used for?

Kasni (chicory) is a well known Unani herb, traditionally used in liver and digestion related nuskhay, usually as a warm qehwa.

Can I take liver herbs with hepatitis medicine?

Please ask your doctor first. Some herbs can interact with medicines, and hepatitis needs proper medical treatment.

What is the best diet for fatty liver?

Less sugar, less oil, more vegetables, fruits, daal and whole grains, plus daily walking and weight loss are the most important steps.

اردو خلاصہ

جگر جسم کا اہم ترین عضو ہے۔ کاسنی، مکوہ، ہلدی، آملہ اور تری پھلا طب یونانی میں جگر کی صحت کے لیے روایتی طور پر استعمال ہوتے ہیں۔ آنکھوں یا جلد کا پیلا ہونا، گہرا پیشاب یا دائیں پسلی کے نیچے درد ہو تو فوراً ڈاکٹر سے رجوع کریں۔ کم چکنائی، کم چینی، روزانہ چہل قدمی اور صحت مند وزن جگر کے لیے سب سے فائدہ مند ہیں۔ ہیپاٹائٹس کا علاج ڈاکٹر سے ہی کروائیں۔

Shop related products

Liver Care · Herbal Powders · Murabba Jaat

Not sure which herb is right for you? WhatsApp us at +92 301 7531564 (Daily, 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM) for free guidance from Hakeem Rizwan Maqsood.

Important: This guide shares traditional knowledge for general awareness. It is not medical advice and herbs are not a replacement for treatment. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking any medicine or have a health condition, please consult your doctor first.