Effect of Liv.52, a herbal preparation, on absorption and metabolism of ethanol in humans

Abstract
Summary In 8 social drinkers, the effect of a single dose of Liv.52 or placebo on ethanol absorption has been studied after ingestion of 30 ml whisky in 5 min. The t1/2 absorption with Liv.52 was 3.62 min, significantly less than after placebo, 6.29 min. The peak concentration after Liv.52 (49.9 mg · 100 ml−1) was significantly higher than with placebo (40.5 mg · 100 ml−1). Whisky 120 ml consumed by regular alcohol users in 1 h, before and following 15 days of Liv.52 treatment produced significantly higher ethanol levels at 2, 3 and 4 h and significantly lower acetaldehyde levels at 3 and 4 h after Liv.52 treatment. Liv.52 enhanced the rate of absorption of ethanol and rapidly reduced acetaldehyde levels, which may explain its hepatoprotective effect on ethanol-induced liver damage.