What's Milk Thistle?
The Mediterranean area's milk thistle (Silybum Marianum), is an herb. Although it has been used as a traditional remedy for liver problems for many centuries, recent research shows that there may be other health benefits. It is high in antioxidants, which may protect your body against damage caused by free radicals or Inflammation . Silymarin is the active ingredient of milk thistle, and is believed to have many medicinal properties. This herb has been used for a number of conditions, such as liver cirrhosis and gallbladder disease.
The Potential Health Benefits of Milk Thistle
Traditional medicine has used milk thistle for liver conditions such as cirrhosis and hepatitis. Silymarin, which is the active ingredient of milk thistle may protect the liver from damage due to toxins, alcohol and drugs, according to studies. Silymarin works by blocking the absorption toxins into liver cells. This is believed to help reduce inflammation and heal damaged cells. Silymarin can also prevent fat buildup in the liver which could lead to liver disease.
Research has shown milk thistle could also provide other benefits. Some studies have shown that milk thistle can lower cholesterol, increase insulin sensitivity and reduce menopause symptoms. It may even protect you against some types of cancer. These findings require more research.
These are the main benefits that Milk Thistle is claimed to have:
- Protects liver against damage from drugs, alcohol and toxins
- Might lower your cholesterol
- Increases insulin sensitivity
- Menopause symptoms are reduced
- Protects against some types of cancer
Expert Opinions on Milk Thistle
Experts agree that milk thistle can be safely taken orally at the recommended dosages. It is worth noting that milk thistle can interact with some medications, causing side effects such as nausea and digestive problems. It is important that you consult your doctor before using milk thistle, particularly if you're pregnant or breastfeeding and taking any other medications.
Some studies also raised questions about the purity and quality of milk thistle supplement. It is therefore important that you only purchase from trusted sources. Experts recommend that you avoid products that are filled with additives or fillers that may affect the performance of your supplement.
How do you get started with milk thistle?
It is essential to consult your doctor before you consider taking milk thistle. The doctor will help determine the right dosage, as well as advise on possible side effects and interactions. Experts recommend that you start with a lower dose, and then gradually increase it.
You can buy milk thistle in teas, capsules and tablets. You can combine it with other herbs such as Turmeric , Artichoke root, and Dandelion root. You can find milk thistle in many health food shops, online pharmacies, and drugstores.
It is crucial to read the labels carefully when taking milk thistle. Follow the directions exactly. It may take several weeks, or even months for you to reap the benefits of this supplement.
Conclusion
Traditional medicine has used milk thistle for years to treat liver problems. Research suggests it could also be beneficial for your health, such as lowering cholesterol, increasing insulin sensitivity and protecting against some types of cancer. These findings are still being confirmed by more research. Milk thistle can cause side effects and interact with other medications so it is important that you consult your doctor before using. You can find milk thistle in many health food shops, online pharmacies, and pharmacy stores.
The safest and most effective way to enhance your overall health and well-being is to use milk thistle. This supplement may have many benefits including the protection of your liver, lower cholesterol, insulin sensitivity and protecting you against some types of cancer. It is important that you consult your doctor before using milk thistle. This may be because it interacts with other medications or can cause side effects.