Top 5 Benefits Of Milk Thistle

An ancient herbal remedy used for thousands of years, milk thistle extract (silybum marianum) is a popular choice for various ailments, including common liver conditions like hepatitis or cirrhosis. However, care must be taken as only few claims are backed by modern studies. Here we'll provide you with a quick overview of the top benefits of taking milk thistle supplementation. Please be sure to consult your healthcare professional for any individualised advice, as this article is provided for informational purposes only.

1. Liver Support

There have been some studies to suggest that some people with liver diseases such as alcoholic/non-alcoholic/fatty liver disease, hepatitis and even liver cancer, would benefit from milk thistle supplementation, by potentially reducing liver inflammation and liver damage. However, there is conflicting information and more research is needed to fully understand its benefits. It is thought, however, to reduce damage to the liver caused by free radicals, which are produced when the liver metabolizes toxic substances. This effect appears to vary for individuals and it is not expected to produce effective results for everyone.

2. Blood Sugar Support

One of the compounds in milk thistle may work similarly to some diabetic medications by helping improve insulin sensitivity and decrease blood sugar. It's been observed that people regularly taking silymarin experienced a reduction in their fasting blood sugar levels. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of milk thistle may also be useful for reducing the risk of developing diabetic complications. However, again, more research is needed before any definitive conclusions can be made.

3. Acne Support

As a chronic inflammatory skin condition, acne may cause scars and agitation. Milk thistle, due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, may be useful for such a condition. One study found that people with acne who took silymarin daily for two months experienced approximately 53% of a decrease in acne lesions. However, one study alone is not sufficient to form any final conclusions. Milk thistle may be helpful for those with acne, but more research is needed to fully understand the probable outcourse.

4. Brain Support

Due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, it may be neuroprotective and could help in the decline in brain function in aging individuals. In animal studies, silymarin has been shown to help prevent oxidative damage to brain cells, which may help prevent mental decline. However, this has not been confirmed in human trials.

5. Milk Support

It is thought that milk thistle can boost breast milk in lactating mothers by supporting the production of the hormone prolactin. One study found that mothers taking silymarin for two months produced approximately 64% more milk than those taking a placebo. However, this was just one study and more research is needed to confirm these findings and determine the safety of high-dose silymarin for breastfeeding mothers.

Milk Thistle has been used traditionally to treat many ailments, particularly regarding the liver and gallbladder. It has shown promise in supporting metabolism and is considered a powerful natural herb that can improve the overall quality of life of those who take it occasionally. As with most herbs, more research is needed to fully understand its benefits, but studies to date have shown that milk thistle holds promising potential with what has been discovered so far. Still, one should always consult a medical professional before considering trying a new herb.