Milk thistle is a natural herb that may be beneficial in the treatment of certain types of health issues, particularly those that involve the gall bladder or liver. This natural herbal supplement is typically administered orally as a capsule, tincture or liquid. Before using milk thistle, talk with your medical provider about how to take this natural supplement as well as the potential side effects and interactions.
Dosage
Health professionals with the University of Maryland Medical Center recommend that adults with liver disease take approximately 280 to 150 mg of milk thistle each day. The efficacy and safety of this natural herbal treatment has not been studied in children. If you experience symptoms of liver disease, such as abdominal pain, jaundice or stool discoloration, consult a medical professional before beginning treatment with milk thistle.
Side Effects
Though this supplement is generally well-tolerated, treatment with milk thistle may cause side effects. The most common side effect is diarrhea, as this herb may act like a laxative, the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center reports. Additional stomach-related side effects may include nausea, bloating, stomach pain or loss of appetite. If you develop severe stomach pain while taking milk thistle, seek care from your physician.
Additionally, if you are allergic to certain types of plants, such as daisies, marigolds and ragweed, you may also be allergic to milk thistle. People who are hypersensitive to these plants should avoid using supplements that contain milk thistle as such treatment may induce a severe allergic reaction. Contact an emergency medical provider immediately if you experience severe allergic reaction symptoms, such as breathing difficulties, hives or facial swelling, after taking milk thistle.
Interactions
Milk thistle may interact with certain medication. Health professionals with the UMMC recommend that you talk with your medical provider before taking milk thistle if you are currently taking any of the following medications: Phenytoin, a seizure medication; halothane, an anesthetic; and any type of antipsychotic. Additionally, treatment with milk thistle may also interfere with the way certain medicines work. Before taking this herbal supplement, talk with your doctor if you are taking medications for high cholesterol, allergies or anxiety. The efficacy of certain blood thinners and cancer drugs may also be altered if taken in conjunction with milk thistle.
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