Silybum marianum, or milk thistle, is a plant used by herbalists and holistic practitioners to treat disorders of the gallbladder and liver, such as cirrhosis or hepatitis. Many practitioners believe that milk thistle can protect your liver from toxins, and substances in milk thistle are purported to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Milk thistle products are popular in the United States and Europe. You should always contact your physician to discuss the risks and benefits of using milk thistle before you begin using the supplement.
History
Herbalists have used the pod, seed and fruit of milk thistle for 2,000 years to treat viral hepatitis, alcohol-induced cirrhosis, mushroom poisoning and liver cancer, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. In traditional medicine, practitioners and herbalists used milk thistle to counteract poisoning caused by the ingestion of Amanita phalloides, or the deathcap mushroom. If given within 10 minutes of ingestion, this antidote greatly reduces the possibility of liver damage and death.
Milk Thistle
Milk thistle goes by a number of names including holy thistle, lady's thistle, Mary thistle, St. Mary thistle, silybum, Marian thistle and Silybum marianum. The herb is native to the Mediterranean but is found around the world. The name milk thistle comes from the milky white fluid that seeps from the plant's leaves when crushed. You should always consult your doctor before taking milk thistle or any herbal supplement.
Silymarin
Researchers believe that a flavonoid in milk thistle, known as silymarin, may protect the liver from toxins and help treat many liver disorders. MayoClinic.com explains that silymarin is extracted from the plant's seeds, and researchers believe it to be the herb's active component.
Milk Thistle and Your Liver
Milk thistle purportedly can help in the treatment of cirrhosis related to alcoholism. However, the University of Maryland Medical Center explains that results are mixed, due to flaws in the design of the clinical trial. Milk thistle is widely used to treat viral hepatitis but, again, researchers got mixed results in studies. Some showed improvements in the liver while others showed little to no improvement. Discuss the use of this herb with your physician if you think it may help with your liver condition.
Warnings
Side effects of milk thistle are rare but may include allergic reaction and mild stomach upset, according to Drugs.com. Always consult a qualified herbalist or holistic practitioner if you plan to use milk thistle.
