The scientific name is Silybum marianus and it is widely regarded as an important herbal component. Herbalists regard it as a very good plant for restoration and tone, especially useful if the body is tired, run down or in need of repair.
Milk thistle seed extracts are abundant in herbal preparations as they contain silymarin which is thought to help liver disease including cirrhosis and hepatitis. Other claimed functions are that of lowering cholesterol (the metabolism of which involves the liver) and helping gallbladder disease. Some medical studies have confirmed the benefits of milk thistle but robust scientific trials are not easily discovered.
Some studies have claimed that there are more antioxidants in milk thistle than there are in vitamin E. In this way, they appear to have their restorative value as they reduce free radicals in the body. This can be useful if the body is tired, under stress or run down.
The benefits of milk thistle are not limited to the seeds as the flowers and leaves are used successfully in herbal remedies. Leaves are supposed to stimulate milk flow in mothers but can be an aid in menstrual problems whereas the flowers aid digestion.
Milk thistle, which can be formed into drops, powder or capsules, is also said to be helpful when taken before alcohol to prevent hangovers!
Published by stiw simon
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