Benefits Of Milk ThistleBenefits of Milk Thistle herb have been known in cultures the world over for a long time. Like most herbs it has been used in eastern medicine and Native American healing for many conditions. Pliny the Elder was the first recorded person to recognize the benefits of milk thistle in A.D. 23–79. He used it for serpent bite with good success. Milk thistle is a flowering plant of the daisy family. The leaves are mottled with splashes of white and the plant contains a milky sap, thus the name milk thistle. Milk thistle seeds have been in use for over 2000 years to treat chronic liver disease and protect the liver against toxins. These reports are in written form from doctors all over the world. Milk thistle is believed to help chronic liver problems and the extract, silymarin is used in medicine. Mild gastrointestinal distress is the most common reported side effect. A laxative effect is also reported less frequently. Studies show no real side effects for up to 40 months of constant use. Milk thistle extract is derived from the seeds and consists of 65-80% silymarin and 20-35% fatty acids. In clinical trials a dosage of 420-480 mg. per day in divided doses has been administered. Higher doses have been studied in the treatment of type II diabetes and hepatitis C. I use it in all our liver support formulas as well as our whole food Super Fuel Plus and other products Research suggests that milk thistle extracts prevent and repair damage to the liver from toxic chemicals such as toluene or xylene. Workers exposed to these chemicals showed improvement in their liver function tests after taking milk thistle. In a 2009 study, milk thistle showed promise in reducing liver damaging effects of chemotherapy. It has also been used in conjunction with penicillin and hyperbaric oxygen therapy to treat death cap mushroom poisoning. Research studies have suggested that milk thistle, combined with traditional treatment, can improve diabetes. Studies show a decrease in blood sugar levels and an improvement in cholesterol in people with type 2 diabetes. Researchers also have found that milk thistle improved insulin resistance, a major characteristic of type II diabetes. Benefits Of Milk Thistle In History
Milk thistle herb is one of several used in cleanses. It supports the function of the liver and aids in removing toxins. In the 16th century, almost all parts of the milk thistle were eaten. The roots were eaten raw or boiled and buttered. The spiny flower heads were eaten in the past like a globe artichoke. The stems can be peeled and soaked, then stewed. If you trim the prickles off the leaves and boil them, they are a good substitute for spinach. They can also be eaten raw. Even though the benefits of milk thistle are many eating it seems like a lot of work. In a supplement form it would be a lot easier like Super Fuel. In accordance with the FDA these products are not intended to treat, cure, mitigate, or prevent any diseases. Please consult your health care professional prior to taking dietary supplements. Information on this site is given for educational purposes only and is not to replace the advice of your doctor. If you have a health condition, please seek the advice of your doctor. Benefits Of Milk Thistle To Herbs |
