There are so many plants that have been used for their purported health benefits over the centuries. Science is still trying to catch up on which ones are actually effective and which are just superstitions. Milk thistle is one potential candidate that has attracted a lot of interest from researchers, but is it something you should be considering for yourself (https://longevity.technology/lifestyle/milk-thistle-benefits-dangers-dosage-uses-precautions-forms/)?
Milk thistle, or Silybum marianum to give it its proper name, has spiky leaves like you’d expect from a thistle, but it’s also related to sunflowers and daisies. The flowers are a distinctive purple color. Historically, milk thistle grows around the Mediterranean, particularly in southern Europe, but it has spread around the world. The main reason it is of interest to medical science is a compound called silymarin, which is full of flavonolignans.
Among the most prominent medicinal uses for milk thistle is liver protection and support. Other possible benefits include antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, regulating blood sugar, lowering cholesterol, boosting the digestive system and improving the health of your skin. There’s even been some research into its potential for cancer therapies, although it’s way too early to draw any definitive conclusions.
This doesn’t mean milk thistle is a miracle supplement. Not only is there a need for more scientific evidence, but it is possible for some people to experience an allergic reaction if they take it. Even for people who don’t have allergies, it may cause some digestive issues, and headaches in rarer cases.
You also need to be very careful if you’re taking other medications, especially those that interact with the liver. This includes some antipsychotics, cholesterol-lowering drugs, and medicine for managing diabetes (particularly if it lowers your blood sugar). Milk thistle may also impact estrogen levels, which can be dangerous with uterine fibroids, endometriosis or some forms of breast cancer.
Basically, you need to be careful with your dosage and follow advice from medical professionals. That’s especially true for children, the elderly, if you’re pregnant, or if you have pre-existing conditions. Keep in mind that different brands or formats may have different strengths and therefore need different doses. Always look for trusted and experienced suppliers.
No single supplement contains the key to all your health needs, but milk thistle may be able to help in some situations. Talk to an expert to see if it might suit you.
