| Hong Kong - Hong Kong scientists claim to have discovered a Chinese medicinal herb which cuts liver fat - a condition associated with pot bellies in the overweight. In a study, the traditional medicinal plant phyllanthus urinaria, or chamberbitter, was found to significantly reduce the increased fat levels in the liver of mice suffering from non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Scientists at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, who carried out the study, said the plant's ingredients controlled the molecules involved in inflammation and also reduced inflammation and fibrosis - or scarring - in the liver. They concluded the plant had shown potent efficacy and that it may be a useful treatment for patients with NASH. NASH is the most extreme progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, a common condition which affects between 15 and 30 per cent of the population in Asia. In more affluent countries such as the United States, fatty liver is believed to affect up to 40 per cent of people and is the fifth-leading cause of liver failure and liver cancer. It has been found to be more common in people with abdominal obesity - fat around the waistline which is referred to as a pot belly or beer belly - and is known to be a more dangerous form of obesity. The disease follows a similar progression to alcohol-induced liver disease, and can lead to liver fibrosis, cirrhosis cancer. Phyllanthus urinaria, also known as shatterstone or stone-breaker, contains tannins and flavonoids, both being active antioxidants. It is has long been used in Chinese medicine among patients for liver and kidney conditions and also for diabetes and gallbladder problems. The team at the university's Center for Liver Health are now conducting a trial involving 60 patients with NASH. About 27 per cent of Hong Kong people are now abdominally obese as a result of sedentary lifestyles and the shift towards a more western diet. Posted by Earth Times Staff Posted by Earth Times Staff
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