Milk Thistle
Milk thistles are flowering plants in the daisy family (Asteraceae) of the
Silybum Adans. genus. Milk thistle grows natively in the Mediterranean region, spanning parts of Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. Some of milk thistle's names include: Silver Milk Thistle, Elephant Thistle, Ivory Thistle, Blessed Milk Thistle, and Variegated Thistle. Its species are:
Silybum ebumeum and
Silybum marianum, and hybridization between the two occurs naturally (
Silybum × gonzaloi Cantó). Another plant exists called the sow thistle, which is sometimes referred to as a milk thistle although it is not a true one.
Milk thistle reportedly has protective effects on the liver, and improves its function. Some of its typical uses include assistance in treatment for liver cirrhosis, chronic hepatitis (liver inflamation) and gallbladder disorders. Studies show that low doses may be ineffective, but higher dosages may have some or more theraputic effects.
The active compound found in milk thistle is silymarin, which is a mixture of 4 or more closely-related flavonolignans. Silymarin is commonly administered in doses between 200-500mg per day. However, effectiveness of specific dosage and appropriate dosages have not yet been conclusively determined by the U.S Department of Health.
Milk thistle's most common use for treatment is of liver disease, mainly hepatitis (hepatitis B, hepatitis C and alocholic hepatitis, specifically). Other claimed treatments include lowering cholesterol levels, reducing insulin resistance in persons with type 2 diabetes with cirrhosis, and reducing growth of cancer cells found in breast cancer, certival cancer and prostate cancer. Some products which claim to lessen the effects of hangovers also make use of milk thistle.
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