Milk Thistle: How to Take, Benefits and Side effects

Milk thistle is a plant native to Europe that has spread to many different countries and is known for its traditional use in treating a variety of health problems. Despite ongoing research, the findings are still inconclusive and we continue to judge its full merits. However, milk thistle may be helpful for certain health conditions. If you want to learn more about this plant, how people use it, its potential benefits, and side effects, read this blog. We aim to provide you with complete information about milk thistle so that you can easily understand its uses and precautions.

What is milk thistle?

The milk thistle plant is also known as Mary or holy thistle. It is a tall plant with dark green leaves with white stripes and large purple flower heads. It is native to the Mediterranean region, but has also been naturalized in other regions, including the United States, California, South America, Africa, and Australia. This plant is known for an extract called silymarin obtained from its seeds. Silymarin is thought to have liver-protecting properties. Milk thistle supplements are often used to support liver health.Several the study Milk thistle has been suggested to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

In what forms can milk thistle be consumed?

There are different forms in which milk thistle can be taken to prevent disease.

• milk thistle capsule: Milk thistle is now available worldwide in capsule form. You can easily buy it from drugstores, pharmacies, and online stores. Take 1-2 capsules of milk thistle with milk or water, or as directed by your doctor. It can be taken 1-2 times a day.

• milk thistle tablet: Tablets are the same as capsules. You can take one or two tablets of milk thistle or as recommended by your doctor. It is most effective when taken twice a day, preferably after meals.

• milk thistle powder: If you don’t want to take capsules or tablets, you can buy milk thistle powder and get the same results. Mix half a tablespoon of thistle powder with milk or water and drink as prescribed by your doctor.

• milk thistle tea: Milk thistle tea is a special drink made from the seeds of the milk thistle plant. To make a healthy milk thistle drink, lightly heat the leaves or seeds in boiling water, strain the mixture and drink once or twice a day, preferably after meals.

Science-backed benefits of milk thistle

Traditionally, milk thistle has been used for liver and gallbladder problems, but it is now used for a variety of purposes. It is beneficial for some health problems but not for others.

• May also be effective for diabetes

It is considered one of the best natural remedies for diabetics. Controlling diabetes symptoms is one of the main benefits of milk thistle. Mixing milk thistle extract with turmeric milk can lower blood sugar levels. It may also help the following health conditions, but there is no strong evidence:

It may help reduce acne on your skin and reduce the severity of acne.

Some studies have stated that milk thistle can help treat liver disease caused by drinking too much alcohol, but other researchers have recorded no benefit.a National Library of Medicine Research says it may slightly increase life expectancy for people suffering from liver and gallbladder diseases.

• Age-related neurological symptoms

Milk thistle is widely used as a natural treatment for some neurological conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. Management of neurological conditions is considered a benefit of milk thistle. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties act as a neuroprotective agent.according to National Library of Medicine Research shows that milk thistle helps reduce the number of amyloid plaques (Alzheimer’s cells in animals).

Osteoporosis is a condition caused by progressive bone loss, which causes bones to weaken, become brittle, and can break easily. According to experiments by National Library of Medicine, milk thistle stimulates bones and prevents bone loss. Experiments are performed on animal bones. The effect on humans is still unknown.

• May be effective against cancer

It has also been shown that it may be useful in cancer treatment. Some studies state that milk thistle has been proven to help reduce the side effects of cancer treatment.

• Can promote breast milk production

Milk thistle may increase milk production in lactating women, but little research has been done to confirm its effects.

milk thistle side effects

Here are some side effects of milk thistle. This includes:

• digestive system problems: Some people may experience mild digestive problems such as nausea, bloating, and indigestion. This is one of the most common side effects of milk thistle.

• allergic reaction: An allergic reaction to milk thistle may occur, and in rare cases, symptoms such as itching, rash, and difficulty breathing may occur.

• Interaction with drugs: Milk thistle can interact with certain medications, affecting their effectiveness or causing unintended side effects.

• diarrhea: In some cases, ingesting milk thistle can cause diarrhea. Most people will experience diarrhea after eating milk thistle. This is a common side effect of milk thistle.

• headache: Some people may experience headaches as a side effect when using milk thistle supplements.

• Hormonal influence: There are theoretical concerns about potential hormonal effects, but further research is needed to fully understand this aspect.

• Effect on blood sugar levels: Milk thistle can affect blood sugar levels, so people with diabetes should be careful.

Milk thistle cancer warning

There is no solid evidence that milk thistle can treat or prevent cancer.Several the study It has been suggested that it may have anti-cancer properties, but this is still being determined. It is not recommended to rely entirely on milk thistle for cancer treatment. You should consult your doctor for proper advice. Do not believe claims that milk thistle can treat or prevent cancer without further evidence.

Is milk thistle good for the liver?

Some research suggests that milk thistle has liver benefits and may protect it from harm. It may also help with other health problems such as liver cirrhosis and chronic hepatitis B caused by excessive alcohol consumption. But most experts say it’s too early to tell whether it will work. However, simply put, there is not enough solid evidence to say whether milk thistle is a reliable solution to liver problems.

conclusion

Overall, milk thistle plant herbal remedies from Europe solve a variety of ailments. Multiple studies have suggested benefits in treating diabetes, acne, and even cancer, but it’s essential to use it correctly. Research on its effectiveness is still inconclusive, reminding us that there is still much to learn. In short, if you are considering taking milk thistle, please consult your doctor for more personalized advice.

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