**The largest gland of the human body is the liver.**

**Functions of the Liver:**

1. **Metabolic Functions:**
- The liver is responsible for various metabolic functions in the body.
- It plays a crucial role in the metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins.
- It helps in the regulation of blood glucose levels by storing excess glucose as glycogen and releasing it when needed.
- The liver also synthesizes cholesterol, lipoproteins, and triglycerides required for various body functions.

2. **Detoxification:**
- The liver acts as a detoxifying organ by filtering and removing harmful substances from the blood.
- It metabolizes drugs, alcohol, and other toxins, converting them into less harmful forms that can be eliminated from the body.
- The liver also helps in the breakdown of hemoglobin and bilirubin, which are byproducts of the normal breakdown of red blood cells.

3. **Bile Production:**
- The liver produces bile, a substance necessary for the digestion and absorption of fats.
- Bile is stored in the gallbladder and released into the small intestine when fatty foods are consumed.
- Bile emulsifies fats, breaking them down into smaller particles that can be easily digested and absorbed.

4. **Storage and Release:**
- The liver acts as a storage organ for various nutrients and vitamins.
- It stores vitamins A, D, E, K, and B12, as well as iron and copper.
- The liver also stores glycogen, which can be converted into glucose and released into the bloodstream to maintain blood sugar levels.

5. **Synthesis of Proteins:**
- The liver is involved in the synthesis of several important proteins, including albumin, clotting factors, and immune system proteins.
- Albumin helps maintain blood volume and transports various substances.
- Clotting factors are essential for blood clot formation, preventing excessive bleeding.
- Immune system proteins play a role in the body's defense against infections.

6. **Production of Heat:**
- The liver generates heat as a byproduct of its metabolic processes.
- This heat production helps in maintaining body temperature and is particularly important during cold conditions.

In summary, the liver is the largest gland in the human body and performs a range of vital functions, including metabolic regulation, detoxification, bile production, nutrient storage, protein synthesis, and heat production.