Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) is easy to recognize by the distinctive white veins in its leaves. As with other thistles, there are sharp spines around the edges of the leaves, and it has a dark pink thistle flower. It is native to the Mediterranean region but grows widely in North America. Common names are Holy thistle and St. Mary’s thistle.
The medicinal properties of milk thistle are primarily found in the seeds, but the leaves can be eaten raw or cooked as a vegetable. Make sure to wear gloves and trim off the prickly spines along their edges.
Milk Thistle Effects on the Liver
Milk thistle is a well known remedy for the treatment of liver disorders. The active constituent found in the seeds is the phytochemical silymarin. Silymarin is a flavonoid that promotes regeneration of damaged liver cells (hepatocytes) and improves liver function in patients with a wide range of liver diseases including hepatitis, cirrhosis, fatty degeneration of the liver and liver damage due to viral infection or toxins.
Since one of the functions of the liver is to detoxify the body, exposure to high concentrations of toxic substances such as alcohol, prescription or recreational drugs, and other environmental or food-borne toxins can take a toll. Prompt treatment with milk thistle also increases the survival rate of those who accidentally ingest the poisonous death cap mushroom, Amanita phalloides.
It is most effective to take milk thistle as a preventative, because it protects the liver from damage by helping to prevent toxins from entering the liver cells. Taking milk thistle is beneficial at any stage of liver disease, however, as it acts to reverse the damage to liver cells. Milk thistle’s antioxidant activity guards cells against oxidation by free radicals, and it promotes the body’s synthesis of the antioxidant glutathione.
Other Health Benefits of Milk Thistle
While milk thistle is best known for its effects on liver function, it also offers other health benefits. Traditionally, milk thistle has been used to promote the production of breast milk, and it is safe for use by nursing mothers. Milk thistle also has beneficial effects on the gallbladder, and increases the production and release of bile, which aids in digestion.
Cautions and Contraindications
There are no known negative drug interactions or side effects for milk thistle. Some people who are allergic to plants in the Asteraceae family, such as ragweed, may have an allergic reaction to it. Due to the possibility that milk thistle may lower blood sugar levels, it should be avoided by those who are hypoglycemic or taking medication for diabetes.
This information is for educational purposes only. If you have a serious health concern, see your health care provider.
Sources:
Hoffman, David. Medical Herbalism. Healing Arts Press, 2003.
Duke, James A. The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook. St. Martin’s Paperbacks, 2000.
