Milk thistle is a flowering herb from the Mediterranean. People have traditionally used milk thistle for problems with the liver and gallbladder. Silymarin is an antioxidant compound taken from milk thistle seeds. Experts believe silymarin contains the active ingredients of the herb.
Why do people take milk thistle?
Research has backed up some uses of milk thistle for liver health. It may have protective effects on the liver, preventing damage. There’s good evidence that milk thistle can help treat cirrhosis and chronic hepatitis, which can be caused by alcohol abuse or viruses. However, experts say that the evidence isn’t conclusive.
Studies have also shown that milk thistle, in combination with medical treatment, may help improve blood sugar and cholesterol in people with type 2 diabetes. More research is needed to confirm.
Other studies of milk thistle, as a treatment for acute viral hepatitis, diabetes, and high cholesterol, have had ambiguous results.
How much milk thistle should you take?
There is no standard dose of milk thistle. In studies, between 160 milligrams and 480 milligrams per day, divided into three doses, have been used to treat liver problems. Different doses are recommended for other conditions. Ask your doctor for advice.
Can you get milk thistle naturally from foods?
People sometimes eat the stem and leaves of milk thistle in salads. There are no other food sources of this herb.
What are the risks of taking milk thistle?
- Side effects. Milk thistle seems to have few side effects, even when taken for years. Some people have nausea, diarrhea, and bloating.
- Risks. Milk thistle can trigger allergic reactions. People who are allergic to artichokes, kiwi, ragweed, daisies, marigolds, and chrysanthemums are at higher risk. Those who have diabetes, endometriosis, breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, or other hormone dependent diseases should check with a doctor before using milk thistle. While milk thistle has been traditionally used in pregnant and breastfeeding women, its safety is unknown. So if you’re either pregnant or breastfeeding, check with a doctor before using milk thistle. Milk thistle is not recommended for children.
- Interactions. If you take any medicines regularly, talk to your doctor before you start using milk thistle. It could interact with drugs for fungal infections, bacterial infections, and insomnia. Since milk thistle may lower blood sugar, people with diabetes should use caution so their blood sugar doesn’t fall too low.
