Milk thistle, scientific name Silybum marianum, is a popular herbal supplement that is commonly used for liver problems. It is also known by the common names Mary thistle, lady's thistle, holy thistle and silymarin, which is a combination of its scientific name. Milk thistle is classified as a dietary supplement by the FDA, so it has not been rigorously tested for efficacy, safety and purity. When using milk thistle supplements, get advice from your physician about any interactions it may have with your other medications.
Historical Aspects
According to historical records, the use of milk thistle dates back to Roman times in the first century, where it was used as a liver-protecting herb. It has been popular in Europe for thousands of years, beginning in the Middle Ages, when it was used to treat malaria, melancholy and symptoms of the plague. Milk thistle supplements are derived from the seeds of the plant, which are actually its fruit. The active component, silymarin, is a flavonoid compound made into a powder, capsule, tablet or liquid. It is an antioxidant that repairs liver cells and stimulates the liver's detoxification pathways.
Health Benefits
Milk thistle is often used to counteract the effects of liver disease resulting from cirrhosis of the liver, hepatitis and alcoholism. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine states that it is believed to provide some protective effects for the liver. Laboratory evidence shows it may promote the growth of liver cells, remove free radicals and reduce liver inflammation. It may be of benefit in hepatitis C infections where it is used to alleviate symptoms, but does not appear to affect the activity of the virus. Milk thistle is used as an antidote for poisoning by the deathcap mushroom, completely reversing the effects of the poison if given within 10 minutes and significantly reducing symptoms if given within 24 hours. More studies are needed, but it's possible the active component in milk thistle may provide some benefit in stopping cell division and reducing blood supply to tumors of the breast, cervical and prostate. Milk thistle is sometimes used by women who are breastfeeding in order to increase milk production.
Dosage
Milk thistle should not be given to children under 18 as its safety has not been determined. For adults, MayoClinic.com advises taking 230mg to 600mg of silymarin in divided doses, two to three times per day. Milk thistle supplements should be taken with a full glass of water.
Precautions
If you have liver disease or diabetes, you should only take milk thistle supplements under the supervision of a physician. Milk thistle is regarded as safe in the recommended dosages, the primary side effects being upset stomach and diarrhea. Milk thistle is part of the daisy family and should not be taken by those who have allergies to daisies, marigolds, chrysanthemums and ragweed. It can interact with some anti-psychotic, seizure, allergy, cholesterol and blood-thinning medications, so check with your doctor before taking this supplement.
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