American Centaury (Centaurium erythraea or Centaurium americanum) has a history of traditional use in herbal medicine, particularly in Europe and North America, as a bitter tonic and digestive aid. Historically, it has been included in various herbal preparations aimed at promoting liver health, stimulating appetite, and supporting digestion. The traditional rationale for its use in liver detoxification stems from the belief that bitter herbs stimulate bile production, thereby supporting liver function and aiding in the elimination of toxins from the body.

However, there is limited direct scientific research specifically investigating American Centaury’s effects on liver detoxification in humans. Most available evidence is anecdotal or based on historical herbal texts, which suggest its use for "cleansing the blood" or "supporting the liver." Some in vitro studies indicate that related species may have antioxidant and hepatoprotective properties, but clinical trials verifying these effects in humans are lacking. Therefore, while its use for liver detoxification is rooted in traditional herbal practice, it is not strongly supported by modern scientific evidence.