Milk thistle is a large flowering plant originally found in the Mediterranean. Today it has spread around the world. Pills and compounds derived from the herb are extracted from the seeds and fruit.
Since Greco-Roman times, milk thistle has been used to treat a variety of problems. Today's science shows it to be most effective when treating the liver, spleen and kidneys.
Congestion
Milk thistle contains a high concentration of the chemical silymarin. This chemical is useful in treating liver disorders. It repairs damaged liver cells and reinforces them against further deterioration. It also eases inflammation and is useful for people suffering from hepatitis.
Silymarin counteracts the extremely poisonous death cap mushroom. The potentially deadly mushroom causes liver failure and death. If the proper dosage of milk thistle is taken within ten minutes of ingestion, the poison is negated. Even if taken within 24 hours, milk thistle drastically reduces the chances of liver damage and death. Warning: if you have ingested a poisonous mushroom, or any other substance that causes severe damage to the liver, consult emergency medical treatment immediately. Do not rely on milk thistle alone to save your life.
Modern studies suggest milk thistle can inhibit the growth of cancer tumors in test tubes, though further study is needed before applying this herbal cancer treatment to humans.
Because of the protection it offers the liver, milk thistle is sometimes combined with medications which may harm the liver. These include aspirin, phenytoin, halothane and various antipsychotic drugs.
Limitations.
The silymarin found in milk thistle is very helpful for the liver. Using it will most certainly help. However, a silymarin extract combined with phosphatidylcholine has shown to be more effective and easier to absorb. The extra chemical helps the silymarin to bond with the liver cells. The stronger liver is more effective in processing alcohol and other toxins.
Side effects.
Very rarely, patients using milk thistle will experience nausea, stomach aches and cramps, diarrhea and/or headaches. It should not be used by pregnant or breast feeding women.
Dosage.
If in dried herb form, 12-15 grams per day. The compound usually contains 100-200 mg and should be taken twice a day. For liver damage, three capsules, three times a day. These dosages are based on the assumption of a 150 lb adult patient. For children, adjust dosage accordingly.
