One of the many milk thistle benefits is the regeneration of hepatic cells. The prickles of thistles are defenses protecting a valuable medicinal treasure. Many people, however, dismiss these plants, thinking these are rough vegetables only fit for donkeys.
- Liver Health Support: The liver helps the body remove toxins and converts nutrients from our body into substances we can use.
- High Potency: Each capsule contains equvalent of 1,000mg of milk thistle (from 111.1mg of 9:1 extract) to provide high-power liver support and contains an additional 50mg of dandelion root for additional benefits.*
- Antioxidant Support: Milk thistle is a powerful antioxidant that can help maintain healthy liver function.*
Hence, this plant is named donkey thistle in many Latin countries despite its doubtless medicinal properties.
Indeed, donkeys eat thistles. But “intelligent” humans took many years to discover the milk thistle benefits, something those humble animals know by instinct. Many would be surprised to learn that a powerful substance against liver disorders is extracted from this thistle: Silymarin, which makes up several pharmaceutical preparations.
A legend says that the white stains on this thistle’s leaves were drops of milk from the Virgin Mary’s breast when she hid her Son from Herod’s persecution. On this basis, Middle Age physicians recommended this plant for increasing milk production in breastfeeding women.
Late scientific developments, which made it possible to know many plants’ chemical composition, allowed physicians to surrender many popular myths about plants. Hence, we can use medicinal herbs more effectively and steadily than before.
Scientific Facts
- Scientific synonyms: Carduus marianus L
- Synonyms: Saint Mary’s thistle
- French: Chardon Marie
- Spanish: Cardo Mariano
- Habitat: Typical Mediterranean species which also grows in Great Britain and North America in dry, rocky soils
- Description: A plant of prickly appearance, growing up two meters high, of the Compositae family, with large, thorny, white-stained leaves; its flower heads are pink or purple, and the fruits are hard, dark-colored
- Parts used: The fruits (seeds), the leaves, and the root
Milk Thistle Benefits
In the fruits of the milk thistle, there are substances with medicinal properties, the so-called flavonolignan. Dr. Coll (of the Pharmacognosis and Pharmacodynamics Laboratory of Barcelona’s Pharmacy College) points out that these complex substances are formed by a flavonoid (taxifolin) and a phenolpropanic molecule (coniferilic alcohol). The mixture of several types (isomers) of flavonolignans is called silymarin.
Silymarin is responsible for one of the many milk thistle benefits. It stimulates the regeneration of hepatic cells damaged by toxic substances such as ethyl alcohol or carbon tetrachloride and phalloidine, a substance in the Amanita phalloides, the most poisonous mushrooms.
Silymarin stimulates protein synthesis in hepatic cells and has essential anti-inflammatory properties on the liver’s mesenchyme (supporting fiber tissue).
Hence, milk thistle is highly recommended in the following cases:
- Fatty degeneration of the liver, both caused by alcohol or by other toxic substances.
- Inflammation of the liver is caused by medicines, such as those with anti-inflammatory, tuberculostatic, anovulatory, or psychological effects.
- Poisoning with hepatotoxic substances, such as carbon tetrachloride, organic-phosphoric insecticides, and mushrooms of the genus Amanita (Amanita phalloides, Amanita verna, Amanita virosa).
- Acute viral hepatitis, chronic hepatitis, alcoholic hepatitis (liver inflammation caused by alcoholic beverage consumption.
- Hepatic insufficiency or congestion, with or without jaundice.
- Hepatic cirrhosis
In all these cases, silymarin stimulates the regeneration of damaged liver cells and restores their normal functions. However, this plant does not entirely heal cirrhosis, nor any other treatment, if necrosis has already occurred. Nonetheless, even in the most severe cases, an improvement is expected.
The FRUITS of the milk thistle and, in less proportion, its leaves and root, contain other active substances (biogenic amines, essential oil, albuminoid substances, and tannin), which could explain its balancing action on the autonomic nervous system that controls the tone of blood vessels. Therefore, the plant is successfully used in the cases of:
- Migraines and neuralgias
- Exhaustion and asthenia
- Kinetosis (nausea and vomiting when traveling): drink herbal tea before departing.
- Allergic reactions: hay fever, asthma, nettle rash
Preparation and Use
- Salads: Young leaves without prickles and flower hearts (like artichokes) can be eaten raw, as Sahara Bedouins do. These are exquisite meals.
- Infusion or decoction: Some leaves or roots can be added with 30-50 g of mashed or ground fruits per liter of water. Drink from three to five cups daily. The dosage can be exceeded with no risk since milk thistle has no toxic side effects.
- Dry extract: The recommended dose is 0.5-1 g, thrice daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best form of milk thistle for reaping its benefits?
While teas and tinctures offer quick absorption, standardized silymarin extracts (typically capsules or tablets) boast the highest active compound concentration and ensure consistent dosage. Powders offer versatility but require careful measuring.
How much silymarin should I take daily?
Research suggests 140-210mg of silymarin per day for liver health. However, consult your doctor to determine the optimal dosage for your needs and potential medication interactions.
Are there any risks or side effects to be aware of?
Milk thistle benefits are generally well-tolerated, but mild side effects like nausea, diarrhea, and upset stomach can occur. It can also interact with certain medications, so always inform your doctor before taking it.
Can I combine milk thistle with other herbs or supplements?
Milk thistle pairs well with antioxidants like turmeric and dandelion for enhanced liver support. However, avoid St. John’s Wort and grapefruit due to potential interactions. Always consult your doctor for personalized advice.
Does milk thistle offer benefits beyond liver health?
Emerging research suggests potential for managing type 2 diabetes, reducing inflammation, and protecting brain health. However, more studies are needed for definitive conclusions.
How long should I take milk thistle for?
Long-term use (3-6 months or more) is generally considered safe for ongoing liver protection. However, consult your doctor for a personalized treatment plan to monitor progress.
Are there any specific quality factors to consider when choosing milk thistle products?
Look for standardized extracts with at least 80% silymarin content. To guarantee the product’s efficacy and purity, choose organic brands and producers with a good reputation whom independent labs have tested.
Can I grow my milk thistle for its medicinal benefits?
Absolutely! Milk thistle thrives in well-drained soil and full sun. While all plant parts offer benefits, the seeds boast the highest silymarin concentration. However, proper harvesting and processing techniques are crucial for optimal potency.
Are there any contraindications for using milk thistle?
Women who are pregnant or nursing, as well as anyone who has specific medical disorders (such as gallstones or tumors that are hormone-sensitive), should prevent themselves from consuming milk thistle without first visiting their physician.
Where can I find reliable information and research updates on milk thistle?
The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and renowned medical magazines are all sources that give content supported by evidence. Before beginning to include milk thistle into your health routine, it is necessary to consult with your physician for individualized recommendations.
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. You should not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, you should talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Ed. Francesc X. Gelabert. Vols. 1 San Fernando de Henares: Editorial Safeliz, 2000. 395,396. Print.
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH): https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK541075/
- WebMD: https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-138/milk-thistle
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center: https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/milk-thistle
- Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK541075/
- European Medicines Agency (EMA): https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/herbal-monograph/final-european-union-herbal-monograph-silybum-marianum-l-gaertn-fructus_en.pdf
- Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-milk-thistle/art-20362885
- Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7140758/
- Journal of Ethnopharmacology: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25396404/
- Food and Drug Administration (FDA): https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/CFRSearch.cfm?fr=145.145
- Journal of Hepatology: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4665566/
- American Botanical Council: https://www.herbalgram.org/
- United States Department of Agriculture (USDA): https://plants.usda.gov/home/classification/39897
- National Gardening Association: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/milk-thistle/milk-thistle-in-gardens.htm
- Drugs.com: https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-milk-thistle/art-20362885
- Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/liver-problems/care-at-mayo-clinic/mac-20374513
- National Institutes of Health (NIH): https://www.nih.gov/
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