Milk thistle is an herb with several medicinal properties, and it is majorly used for detoxifying the liver. Milk Thistle Dry Extract Silymarin Silybin has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and that’s why it is used as a home remedy for liver-related issues. Scientific evidence is not found for milk thistle on the liver, but people consume it for detoxification purposes.

What Are The Different Uses Of Milk Thistle?

Normally milk thistle is used for liver purposes only, but it has also been found beneficial in other conditions such as high cholesterol and diabetes. The milk thistle can also treat problems related to acidities such as heartburn, upset stomach hangover, or gallbladder problems. Women suffering from menstrual pain can also use it; apart from this, it is used in conditions like depression and cancer. These facts are supported with strong evidence as milk thistle has great results.

  • Liver Diseases

Many types of research suggest that taking milk thistle can improve liver functioning and detoxify the liver by binding away toxins from it. Results of milk thistle on treating liver diseases are mixed; some studies have shown that it has great results in starting stages where there are no aggravated symptoms. A study from Finland has found that a four-week course of milk thistle supplement enhanced the normal functioning of the liver.

  • Chronic Hepatitis

A viral infection that results in progressive liver scarring is known as chronic hepatitis. A research was conducted on 1145 people, and it was found that 23% of these use milk thistle for chronic hepatitis, and the results were great. People in this survey had noted that they had got a better quality of their life and fewer symptoms of chronic hepatitis when they were consuming milk thistle. In addition, it was confirmed by the patients that they have noticed no change in viral activity or inflammation.

  • Type 2 Diabetes

Many researchers have proved milk thistle beneficial for diabetes, especially type 2 diabetes. For example, in research conducted in 2015, a 45- day course of milk thistle was given to adults suffering from type 2 diabetes. Taking milk thistle regularly increased their antioxidant capacity and showed great results in reducing inflammation. In addition, it has been found that it can similarly reduce oxidative stress faced by patients and diabetes complications.

What Are The Common Side Effects?

Consuming milk thistle daily can have different side effects on the body. The most common side effects include headache, nausea, diarrhoea, abdominal bloating, and gas. Some people even suffer from muscle aches, joint pain, and some allergies. Anyone allergic to plants in the Aster family can also be allergic to milk thistle. Therefore people who have developed an allergy to daisies, artichokes, kiwi, or ragweed can have milk thistle allergy also. In very rare chance milk thistle can even cause some life-threatening problem; all body allergy is known as anaphylaxis.

Proper Dosage Of Milk Thistle

Milk thistle supplements are usually available in capsules in the market, but you can also get tablets, tea bags, and oral tinctures. The dose of milk thistle can range from 775 mg to 1000 mg depending on age and health condition. The higher the milk thistle dosage, the higher the risk of its side effect; therefore, it is preferable to go with a small dosage. When you are buying a dietary supplement, it is important to check the testing results of the supplement so that you stay on the safer side.

Some of the combination remedies used for treating dyspepsia and diabetes can be combined with milk thistle for better results. 10 mg and 200 mg is the perfect combination, a higher dose than this would not so great result. Dietary supplements containing milk thistle are also found in food stores, drug stores, and online platforms. Ensure that you are purchasing the product after checking all the specifications and the amount of milk thistle in the supplement.

Ending Lines

These are some important things that you need to know before starting consuming milk thistle daily. No doubt, there are several health benefits of consuming milk thistle, but knowing about all the side effects can keep you safe.