The Science-Based Benefits of Milk Thistle

Benefits of Milk Thistle (Nature’s Liver Protector)

Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) is a species of thistle named after the distinctive white veins on its leaves.

Despite its prickly nature, milk thistle contains various plant compounds collectively known as silymarin, which have many potential health benefits.

In particular, milk thistle extract has been used in traditional remedies to treat gallbladder disorders, promote breast milk production and protect the liver from poison.

Milk thistle is a thorny plant with distinctive purple flowers and white veins originally native to Southern Europe through to Asia but can now be found worldwide. With its vibrant purple flowers and spiky leaves, milk thistle is a visually striking plant with many therapeutical properties, as it contains various beneficial plant compounds.

These compounds, collectively known as silymarin, have many potential health benefits, and milk thistle supplements containing silymarin have been extensively studied for their effects on liver health. However, more research is needed to confirm these milk thistle benefits, as it shows promise as a complementary and alternative medicine (CAD) for many health conditions.

The Health Benefits of Milk Thistle

Milk thistle extract has been used as a traditional medicine for centuries and is widely used to help purge toxins and tackle indigestion, as it is believed to help support the liver. The active ingredient in milk thistle is a group of plant compounds known as silymarin, and milk thistle extract contains high amounts of silymarin (around 65-80%).

RELATED: Milk thistle isn’t the only way to care for your liver – here are our picks for the best vitamins and supplements to restore a damaged liver and support liver health.

Silymarin also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, meaning that milk thistle supplements may help prevent chronic diseases linked to inflammation and oxidative damage. While more research is needed before it can be officially approved as a complementary and alternative medicine, there are many milk thistle benefits, including:

Recommended Dosage

As herbal supplements, there is no officially recommended dosage for milk thistle supplements, and the effective dose can vary depending on the user’s weight, age, and health. Fortunately, we can use the existing human studies as a guide to determine the effective dose needed for noticeable milk thistle benefits.

Studies on the effects of milk thistle have used varying doses and delivery methods, but the most common form is milk thistle extract standardized to 70-80% silymarin in 200-400mg capsules. Supplements like these are the most common way to take milk thistle, and they are generally considered safe in doses of 400-1,200mg daily, though you should consult your doctor before adding them to your routine.

Finding the Best Milk Thistle Supplements

Finding a high-quality product from a reputable manufacturer is crucial when choosing a milk thistle supplement. Look for products that contain high-strength extracts to make the most of the milk thistle benefits, and always choose manufacturers that follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).

Because silymarin is the main active ingredient in milk thistle extract, the two are often used interchangeably on the labels and publishing material for dietary supplements. Whether these compounds are described as milk thistle or silymarin, the techniques for choosing the best milk thistle supplements remain the same. When choosing the best dietary supplements, we recommend using these tips:

1. Look for standardized extracts: Choose a supplement that contains a standardized amount of silymarin (milk thistle extract), typically 70-80%, to ensure consistency and potency.
2. Check for third-party testing: Look for supplements that have been independently tested by a reputable laboratory to verify the purity and quality of the product.
3. Consider the supplement form: Milk thistle is available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, and liquid extracts, so choose the form that is most convenient for you.
4. Read customer reviews: Before purchasing a specific brand, read reviews from other consumers to get an idea of their experiences with the product.

Conclusion

Milk thistle is a remarkable plant with a long history of use in traditional medicine to promote liver health and overall well-being. With potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, milk thistle extract may offer protection against liver damage, help treat liver conditions and contribute to general health.

Although more research is needed to understand these milk thistle benefits, it has shown strong potential as a Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM), making it a promising herbal supplement. Remember to ask your doctor before adding any new supplements to your regimen (especially if you have an existing condition like diabetes) and choose high-quality milk thistle supplements to ensure safety and effectiveness.