Milk thistle has been used as a natural remedy over the last 2,000 years to treat numerous types of health conditions. The scientific name for this type of thistle is Silybum marianum, but it is commonly referred to as milk thistle, and sometimes holy thistle or Mary thistle. One of the characteristics of milk thistle that has been extensively investigated is its effectiveness for treating cancerous tumors.
Preparations
The medicinal component in this plant is called silymarin, of which milk thistle contains four different types. The most active compound of silymarin is called silybin, and most preparations of milk thistle list the amount of this compound it contains. Milk thistle is usually prepared for patients as a tablet or capsule.
Scientific Research
Both pre-clinical studies involving animals, and clinical studies involving humans have been conducted to determine the effect of milk thistle on cancerous tumors. The results of these scientific studies indicate that the silymarin in milk thistle is an antioxidant. Silymarin can strengthen the outside of the cell, preventing toxins from invading the cell. Additionally, silymarin activates enzymes that reduce the levels of toxins in the body and blocks free radicals that can cause damage to cells and make cancer more likely to develop. Silybin, the most active compound of silymarin in milk thistle, has been shown to enhance the ability of certain chemotherapeutic drugs to kill ovarian and breast cancer cells; help combat prostate, breast, and cervical cancers without chemotherapy; and can slow down the growth of cancer cells. The results of a clinical trial involving treating children with a type of leukemia indicated that milk thistle reduced side effects of chemotherapy. More research is needed to confirm the effects of milk thistle in humans.
Recommendations
It is important to note that Food and Drug administration has not approved milk thistle in the treatment of cancerous tumors. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that the recommended dose of milk thistle range between 280 to 450mg per day taken in separate doses.
Possible Side Effects
Overall, milk thistle is well tolerated when the recommended dose is taken. The possible side effects of milk thistle include a reduction in blood sugar levels; gastrointestinal side effects, such as diarrhea and an upset stomach; or an allergic reaction if you are sensitized to milk thistle. Because of its effect on blood sugar, the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine advises those with diabetes or taking medications that alter blood sugar levels should be cautious about taking milk thistle. If you know you are allergic to plants that are similar to milk thistle, including daisies, chrysanthemums, marigolds or ragweed, you may also be allergic to milk thistle.
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