This amazingly complex organ affects virtually every physiological process, either directly or indirectly. If your liver isn't working up to par, it'll likely affect other aspects of your health. The holistic view of health taken by both Eastern traditions and Western herbalists place the liver and gall bladder at the root of many health problems. Research has shown that environmental pollution enters the blood stream via food, water supply and the atmosphere and causes levels of toxins to build up in the body. These toxins affect body functioning, especially the functioning of the liver. A healthy liver is the foundation of health, and inversely, a failing liver is life threatening.