What is the benefits of milk thistle?
The terms “milk thistle” and “silymarin” are often used interchangeably. Historically, people have used milk thistle for liver disorders and gallbladder problems. Milk thistle is promoted as a dietary supplement for hepatitis, cirrhosis, jaundice, diabetes, indigestion, and other conditions.
What does milk thistle do for the liver?
The active ingredient — the one that protects the liver — in milk thistle is known as silymarin, a chemical extracted from the seeds. Silymarin is actually a group of flavonoids (silibinin, silidianin, and silicristin), which are thought to help repair liver cells damaged by alcohol and other toxic substances.
What is St Mary’s thistle good for?
St Mary’s thistle supports healthy digestion and is traditionally used in Western herbal medicine to relieve digestive discomfort and symptoms of indigestion, including flatulence, abdominal bloating and feelings of fullness.
Is milk thistle the same as blessed thistle?
Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) is a tall, purple flowering plant with prickly spines. Originally from the Mediterranean region, milk thistle has a long history of use in medicine and healing. Note that milk thistle is not the same as blessed thistle, which is another herb used to boost breast milk supply.
What is milk thistle side effects?
Milk thistle seems to have few side effects, even when taken for several years. Some people have nausea, diarrhea, itching, and bloating. Interactions. If you take any medicines regularly, talk to your doctor before you start using milk thistle.
Should you take milk thistle every day?
Milk thistle is generally considered safe for most people at dosages up to 420 mg 3 times a day. However, it may cause allergic reactions, such as itching, headaches, and joint pain, or gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea or diarrhea.
Can I take milk thistle every day?
Is milk thistle good for blood pressure?
MayoClinic.com states animal and laboratory research found milk thistle may be capable of lowering high cholesterol levels; however, further research is necessary to determine its true effectiveness. If this is true, milk thistle may help lower blood pressure by eliminating excessive cholesterol within the arteries.