Milk thistle is a flowering plant that comes from the family of daisy and ragweed. It is also known as Mary thistle and holy thistle. It is normally grown in the Mediterranean countries and commonly used to make natural medicines and remedies.
Milk thistle is used as a natural medicine to treat a number of health conditions and illnesses. Silymarin is a polyphenolic flavonoid and is the main active ingredient found in milk thistle. Silymarin is an antioxidant and has anti-inflammatory properties. It is commonly used to naturally treat liver problems. It is also known to reduce cholesterol and manage type 2 diabetes. Milk thistle supplements are also quite popular amongst many people.
The following are the benefits of milk thistle:
1. Supports liver health
One of the most common uses of milk thistle is to treat issues related to liver health. Milk thistle is known to improve diet-induced liver damage. The active ingredient silymarin present in milk thistle acts as an antioxidant that reduces the production of free radicals. This acts as a detoxifying effect for the liver which is very helpful for maintaining a healthy liver.
2. Good for skin
Milk thistle is known to promote healthy skin. When applied to the skin, milk thistle is known to help improve inflammatory skin conditions. Milk thistle also contains antioxidants that are great for your skin and also has anti-aging effects on human skin cells. Both consumption and application of milk thistle supplements and products have great benefits for your skin and overall health.
3. Reduces cholesterol
High cholesterol is the root cause of heart-related issues which increases the chance of strokes. Milk thistle and its supplements are known to keep a check on the cholesterol levels in your body. Milk thistle is also used to treat diabetes along with high cholesterol.
4. Can promote brain health
Milk thistle is traditionally used as a remedy to treat neurological issues like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidants properties present in milk thistle helps to prevent a decline in brain functions that happens due to aging. It helps to prevent mental damage by preventing oxidative damage to the brain.
5. Boosts immune system
Milk thistle is also known to promote immune functions and the immune system. Consumption of milk thistle extracts helps to boost the immune system that helps you to fight infections. A stronger immune system is very important for your overall health and well being.
Milk thistle is commonly used in the form of supplements available at all vitamin supplements stores. There are no known side effects of milk thistle supplements. You can also consume milk thistle in the form of tea as well. You can have a maximum of 6 cups of milk thistle tea in a day.