MILK THISTLE
MILK THISTLE
Milk Thistle, otherwise referred to as Silybum marianum has been used since at least the first century A.D. British, Roman, Chinese, and Ayurvedic herbalists have praised Milk Thistle for the treatment of spleen and kidney disorders, and to treat kidney stones. It was also considered a great blood cleanser and warded against disease throughout the seasons by extracting toxins from the blood. Milk thistle is considered a weed as it grows easily in the wild throughout the entire Southern Hemisphere. It has spikey green leaves, and a large purple-pink flower head. It can grow to be as tall as one meter if it completes its full life-cycle of two years. It prefers dry, rocky soils and sunny or lightly shaded areas to grow. Soaking the flower buds and stems is advised to reduce their bitterness, or you can take Milk Thistle as a supplement.
BENEFITS OF MILK THISTLE
Milk Thistle has been used throughout the centuries for many ailments, with its most scientifically documented use being a liver tonic. It also:
- Protects the liver, helps to lighten its burden of detoxification by cleaning the blood
- Restores the liver that has been damaged from alcohol consumption
- Protects liver from drugs like acetaminophen (Tylenol) which are known to cause liver damage in high doses
- Can help lactating women produce more milk
- Used to treat hepatitis
- Treats the gallbladder
- Stops cancer cells from spreading and shortens their life
- Prevents cancer cells from reproducing
- Fights free radicals
- Reduces aging
- Silymarin and other compounds in Milk Thistle promote balanced lipid levels
- Applied topically, it can boost skin health
- Promotes normal blood sugar levels
- Can counteract mushroom poisoning if taken within 48 hours
- Supports prostate health in men
- Lowers bad cholesterol
HOW DOES MILK THISTLE WORK?
Milk Thistle works primarily through its silymarin compounds which have been shown to protect the liver. This is a potent hepaprotective substance. It also supports the over physiology of the body through its antioxidant compounds.
The biologically active chemical constituents of Milk Thistle include flavolignans (silymarin), tyramine, histamine, gamma lineolic acid, silichristin (a metabolic stimulant), and silydianin. Also in high concentrations in the plant are flavonoids, betaine, trimethyglycine, and amines.
SUGGESTED DOSAGE
BeHerbal’s Milk Thistle is sourced only with high quality ingredients. Dosage is suggested at 175 mg daily for an 80% flavonolignans extract. Be Herbal’s Milk Thistle supplement are formulated to be as bioactive as possible for maximum absorption.
SIDE EFFECTS OF MILK THISTLE
Side effects of any type are unusual and mild, however, if you are allergic to plants in the ragweed family or already suffer from low blood sugar, you may want to look for another super herb to consume. This plant is also toxic to sheep and cows if eaten over a long duration.
*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult your qualified healthcare provider before beginning any diet or program.