Benefits Of Consuming Milk Thistle
Milk Thistle, or scientifically known as Silybum Marianum, is a flower-like herb related to daisies. It is also known as Mary Thistle or Holy Thistle in some areas. This herb is initially found in Mediterranean countries but eventually spread out to the entire world.
The common usage of milk thistle is for people who have liver and gallbladder problems. Its extract contains a high amount of silymarin that is concentrated in the plant. Silymarin can be considered anti-inflammatory and anti-viral.
Many supplemental medicines using silymarin have promoted milk thistle extracts as a protection for those who suffer from liver diseases, like fatty liver, alcohol-induced livers, and hepatitis. Some would even recommend liver cancer patients to intake a healthy dose of silymarin supplements. A study was conducted to investigate the effects of milk thistle. Results show that there has been an improvement in the function of the liver for those with diseases that take the supplements.
The anti-oxidant properties of milk thistle provide a slight extension of life for people suffering from cirrhosis induced by alcohol. It also helps prevent the oxidation of brain cells, resulting in better memory retention. Amyloid plaques found most commonly in Alzheimer's disease patients have been found to be reduced. This means that milk thistle has the potential to treat or prevent progressive brain disorders.
Most importantly, milk thistle is very safe to ingest. Only one percent of silymarin users reported minor side effects. These side effects include stomach disturbances, bloating, or nausea. Although like other supplements, these are not medicinal drugs. The effects of taking milk thistle are not visible immediately.
Consulting a doctor is always the best practice before taking any supplement or drug. It is also better to see if you are not allergic to the Compositae family of plants.
You can also gain essential nutrients such as Omega-3 fatty acids by taking other supplements such as fish oil.
