Headaches can have a number of causes from tension to eye strain. If you prefer to take an alternative approach to dealing with the discomfort of a headache caused by a hangover, you may want to consider a milk thistle supplement. You should seek a doctor's advice before using milk thistle.
History
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC, milk thistle has been used for thousands of years to treat a number of ailments, such as gallbladder and liver problems. It was first used by the ancient Greeks who gave it its name due to the milky sap found in the stem and leaves of the plant.
Features
Milk thistle, or Silybum marianu, is also known as Mary's Thistle and Holy Thistle. It is a perennial herb that is native to Europe, and has been naturalized in North America. It is a flowering plant with dark green, spiked leaves and purple flowers. The seeds of the plant are used to make herbal supplements as they contain the collective chemicals known as silymarin.
Significance
The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, or NCCM, explains that milk thistle contains the active ingredient silybin. This substance is useful for protecting the liver and improving its function and over-all health. For this reason, it is used to treat hepatitis, gallbladder disorders and cirrhosis. It also has the ability to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cancer cells in the cervix, prostate and breasts.
Function
According to Health-911, milk thistle will help to cure or prevent a hangover. The active ingredient, silymarin may help to protect the liver from the effects of alcohol by eliminating toxins and preventing them from entering the liver. The suggested dose is two 70 mg tablets before or during drinking. The effect will be quicker if the supplement is taken with food.
Warning
According to the UMMC, potential side effects of milk thistle include stomach cramps and diarrhea. Women who are pregnant or nursing should not take this supplement. Milk thistle may have contraindications with anti-seizure drugs, high cholesterol medication, blood thinners, allergy medications and anti-psychotic drugs.
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