The herbal supplement milk thistle, with the botanical name Silybum marianum, is best known as beneficial for the liver, though it has known topical benefits as well. The plant acquired its nickname from the milky white liquid inside its leaves and stems. Research indicates that the active ingredient in milk thistle, a group of flavonoid nutrients called silymarin, protect the liver from toxins, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Milk thistle supplements typically are standardized to guarantee a certain level of silymarin content. Consult a qualified health care provider before taking milk thistle supplements.
Protection Against Skin Cancer
Research with mice shows that topical silymarin provides protection against skin cancer that results from ultraviolet radiation and chemical carcinogens, according to the American Cancer Society. This could be due to its antioxidant properties. A study published in the "International Journal of Oncology" in December 2002 explains that oxidative stress and suppression of immunity by ultraviolet light are important factors in skin cancer development. The authors recommended a clinical trial using silymarin with people at high risk of skin cancer, as well as production of sunscreen and other skin care products containing silymarin. In addition, research published in "Antioxidants and Redox Signaling" in August 2002 notes that both laboratory and animal studies with silymarin show preventive and anticancer effects against skin cancer, as it scavenges free radicals and strengthens the antioxidant system.
Rosacea Treatment
Research appearing in the March 2008 issue of the "Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology" evaluated 46 participants with rosacea using a topical treatment containing methylsulfonilmethane, or S-MSM, and silymarin. S-MSM is a sulfur compound typically used as an oral supplement for relieving the pain and inflammation of arthritis. Participants experienced statistically significant improvements in many parameters, particularly in redness, lesions, itching and dryness.
Cosmetic Products
A study published in the Sept/Oct 2009 issue of "Clinical Dermatology" notes that many consumers prefer herbal cosmeceutical preparations because these products are mostly non-toxic and have strong antioxidant properties. Oxidative stress is a major factor in skin aging and other dermatological conditions, and silibinin, the major active component of silymarin, could be useful for treating these conditions. Silibinin modulates many molecular changes resulting from ultraviolet radiation and foreign compounds called xenobiotics.
Psoriasis Benefits
Milk thistle also may provide topical benefits for people with psoriasis when taken as an oral supplement, as noted by an article published in the April 6, 2001 issue of the "Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine." Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin disorder involving red, itchy patches and silvery scales. Because the liver eliminates toxins associated with psoriasis flare-ups, milk thistle may prevent outbreaks by enhancing liver function.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Milk Thistle
- American Cancer Society: Milk Thistle
- Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine: Milk Thistle
- International Journal of Oncology: Treatment of Silymarin Prevents Ultraviolet Light-Induced Immune Suppression and Oxidative Stress in Mouse Skin
- Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology: Combined Effects of Silymarin and Methylsulfonylmethane in the Management of Rosacea
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