Liverworts can provide great medical benefits to humans. The meaning of the word liverwort in the Old English language translated to 'liver plant.' Liverworts are known to be a prominent herbal remedy that can aid in curing digestive disorders. Liverworts are classified as astringents, or a gentle herb. This label was given in the 19th century when the plant's medical use came into prominence. Medicines that contain liverwort content are made from the dry parts of the plant that grows above the ground. The remedies containing a content of liverwort material are believes to be able aid in the cure of diseases such as gallstones and jaundice. A primary constituent within liverworts includes soponins. Saponins are also present in remedies such as gingseg. Liverworts can also provide great industrial benefits for humans. Liverworts can be dried and used as fossil fuels. In cold climates the lower layers of liverworts become carbonized, and therefore can be used as fossil fuels by humans. Liverworts provide ecological benefits to people living in rural communities. Liverworts can help prevent soil erosion due to the rhizoid structures. The rhizoids anchor the liverworts to the ground very strongly and helps prevent the deterioration and erosion of soil.