It is a herbal remedy derived from the milk thistle plant known as Silybum marianum. The active ingredient in milk thistle are a group of plant compounds collective known as silymarin.
It’s a herbal remedy is known as milk thistle extract. Milk thistle extract has a high amount of silymarin (between 65–80%) that has been concentrated from the milk thistle plant.
The silymarin extracted from milk thistle is known to have antioxidant, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties
In fact, it has traditionally been used to treat liver and gallbladder disorders, promote breast milk production, prevent and treat cancer and even protect the liver from snake bites, alcohol and other environmental poisons.
Science – based Benefit of Milk thistle:
1. Milk Thistle Protects Your Liver
2. It May Help Prevent Age-Related Decline in Brain Function
3. Milk Thistle Could Protect Your Bones
4. It May Improve Cancer Treatment
5. It Can Boost Breast Milk Production
6. It Could Help Treat Acne
7. It Can Lower Blood Sugar Levels for People With Diabetes
Side Effects
Milk thistle is generally safe but when taken in high dosage only about 1 % experience side effect of gut disturbance like Diarrhoea, Nausea or Bloating.
Some people are advised to be cautious when taking milk thistle. These include:
1. Pregnant women
2. Those allergic to the plant
3. People with diabetes
Generally MILK THISTLE is a safe supplement that shows potential as a complementary therapy for various conditions, including liver disease, cancer and diabetes.
However, many of the studies are small and have methodological flaws, which makes it difficult to give firm guidance on this supplement or confirm its effects .
Overall, more high-quality research is needed to define the doses and clinical effects of this fascinating herb.
Written by: Ruth Olusegun
