Milk thistle is a tall, spiny plant native to the Mediterranean. It has large, purple flowers and propagates easily enough to be considered a noxious weed in some places. For at least 2,000 years, the seeds of the milk thistle have been used in preparations to cure liver ailments such as cirrhosis and liver damage from toxins. It also might be an effective antidote to deathcap mushroom poisoning. Clinical research on the herb's benefits to the liver is promising, but more systematic and long-term human studies are required.
Cirrhosis
Cirrhosis is a disease where the liver slowly deteriorates and ceases to function properly. It is most commonly caused by heavy alcohol consumption but can also be the result of obesity, viral infections, traumatic injury, drug abuse or exposure to toxins. Other types of liver damage are similar to cirrhosis. Symptoms of cirrhosis and liver damage include weakness, abdominal pain, itching and spider veins on the skin.
Some research suggest that silymarin, an antioxidant compound in milk thistle, can slow the progression of cirrhosis and repair some damage to liver cells. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, some studies show reduced fatalities from cirrhosis in patients given the drug, but the poor design of the studies makes it impossible to draw positive conclusions.
Deathcap Mushroom Poisoning
Poisoning from deathcap mushroom is insidious because it sets in up to 16 hours after ingestion, then symptoms disappear for a couple of days before returning and becoming fatal. Symptoms of of deathcap mushroom poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain. Jaundice begins with the second onset of symptoms, and the victim dies of liver and kidney failure within a few days.
In animal studies, the herb completely counteracted the toxicity of the poison if it was given within 10 minutes of ingestion. If it was given up to 24 hours after ingestion, it significantly reduced fatalities and liver damage. Milk thistle is a traditional antidote to deathcap mushroom poisoning, but there is not enough clinical research on humans to be certain of its effectiveness in people.
Milk Thistle Side Effects
Milk thistle has few side effects, and they are rarely serious. Some people who are allergic to other members of the aster family, such as daisies and ragweed, could have reactions to milk thistle with symptoms like hives and difficulty breathing. Other people find that the herb has a laxative effect, and some experience nausea and vomiting. HCV Advocate, an action group for sufferers of hepatitis C, warns that milk thistle can negatively affect the absorption of some drugs, causing them to become weaker or stronger in the bloodstream. Drugs that shouldn't be taken with milk thistle include methadone, some types of sedatives, statin drugs for high cholesterol and anti-depressants.
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