Although you only have to take a shot of Depo Provera once every three months to prevent pregnancy, the synthetic progesterone can remain in your system for up to a year after your last shot. However, by strengthening your liver - your body's cleansing organ - with natural herbs for six months, you can help your body rid itself of Depo Provera more quickly.
Dandelion Root
Dandelion root has been used throughout the ages to detoxify, restore and increase the function of the liver. As we age, our livers become less effective at removing toxins from the body. Naturopathic practioners and The National Institute of Health recommend the use of dandelion root to aid the body in ridding itself of unwanted toxins or excess hormones.
Organic Dandelion Root Tincture (Taraxacum Officinale) can be purchased at your local health food store or found online. One tablespoon of dandelion root tincture should be taken three times daily. If you have a sensitive stomach, you should take your tablespoon of dandelion root tincture with food. It can even be added to food and taken with it if you develop an appreciation for the taste.
The dandelion root tincture should be taken for six months after you stop taking Depo Provera injections to ensure that your body flushes the excess progesterone completely. Note that it can be taken for even longer with no ill effects. Its only, rare side effects are dermatitis, diarrhea and stomach upset.
Milk Thistle
Like dandelion root, milk thistle improves liver functions and helps it to rid the body of toxins. Milk thistle actually helps the liver to regenerate itself by stimulating the growth of liver cells. Many naturopathic doctors even prescribe it to patients with cirrhosis and fatty liver disease to prevent further damage to the liver.
Milk thistle capsules can be found online or at your local health food store. To help to regenerate and stregthen your liver, 300mg of milk thistle should be taken three times a day for six months. It can be taken at the same time as dandelion root and has no significant side effects (although you may notice looser stool when you begin to take it.)
Turmeric
Turmeric helps the liver maintain hormone balance by increasing the production of bile which is the vehicle by which the liver rids the body of excess hormones.
Turmeric is a root that is often used in curry powder and it can be found at many grocery stores in powdered form. For a reasonably tasty liver detoxifying drink, mix two teaspoons of powdered turmeric with one tablespoon of brown sugar in one cup of water. Drink it daily, first thing in the morning, for six months.
Tags: dandelion root, Depo Provera, should taken, your body, dandelion root, dandelion root tincture