Fatty liver or fatty liver disease is also called nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. It is relatively common and in most cases does not even have signs or symptoms. Milk thistle has a long tradition in folk medicine as a "liver cure" and may be helpful for fatty liver.
The Liver
The liver is one of the most important organs in the body, orchestrating more than 500 vital functions. The liver contains about 13 percent of the total blood supply at any given moment. All of the blood from the stomach and small intestines flows through the liver, which processes the blood and breaks down the nutrients into substances the body can use. In addition, the liver produces bile, which is used to break down fats and regulates most of the chemical levels in the blood.
Fatty Liver Disease
Fatty liver disease occurs when the liver has trouble breaking down fats. The fat builds up in liver tissue and can cause inflammation and scarring. In severe cases, the scarring can cause liver failure. The scarring, known as cirrhosis, can be so bad that a liver transplant is the only cure. The cause of fatty liver disease is unknown, but some risk factors include gastric bypass surgery, high cholesterol and triglycerides, obesity, rapid weight loss, type 2 diabetes and toxins or chemicals.
Research
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, Silybum marianum, commonly called milk thistle, is an herbal remedy used for more than 2,000 years for liver and gallbladder problems. A flavonoid in milk thistle called silymarin protects the liver from toxins and may help the liver repair itself by growing new cells. The University of Maryland Medical Center says most studies show milk thistle improved liver functions and can increase survival in people with cirrhosis. The Mayo Clinic notes that while milk thistle has been used to treat fatty liver disease, the treatment is based on tradition rather than scientific research. The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality published a review of milk thistle in the October 2000 "Evidence Reports/Technology Assessments" that noted the available evidence is from poorly designed and reported studies. Some lab work has been shown to improve after treatment with milk thistle, but whether people with liver disease survive longer using milk thistle has not been well-studied and the outcomes are mixed.
Considerations and Warnings
The Mayo Clinic says that milk thistle is generally regarded as safe when taken as directed. Side effects are usually mild; stomach upset and diarrhea are the most common. Some people may develop a rash from contact with milk thistle plants. Milk thistle should not be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women, or people with a history or breast, uterine or prostate cancer. If you have questions about fatty liver disease or the use of milk thistle, consult a health-care professional.
References
- Lucille Packard Children's Hospital at Stanford; How the Liver Works: Anatomy of the Liver; 2011
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Milk Thistle; Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD; March 2009
- Mayo Clinic; Milk Thistle (Silybum Marianum); April 2011
- Mayo Clinic; Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease; February 2011
- "Evidence Reports/Technology Assessments"; Milk Thistle: Effects on Liver Disease and Cirrhosis and Clinical Adverse Effects; Valerie Lawrence, M.D., M.Sc., et.al.; October 2000
