Milk thistle is a plant that belongs to the family of daisies, and it has been used in the traditional Chinese, European and Ayurvedic medicine for more than two thousand years.
Originally from Southern Europe, Asia Minor and the Mediterranean region, in our days milk thistle is grown all over the world. In addition to being one of the most effective liver cleansing herbs, it has beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system, prostate and gall bladder.
Detoxification
Milk thistle is most often used as a detoxifying agent because it has a strong effect on the liver. The liver is responsible for the safe removal of toxins from the body. Milk thistle stimulates liver function and cleanses the lymphatic system.
Cancer
Though research on the effects of stomach cancer is still in the early stages, all results suggest that milk thistle inhibits the growth of cancerous cells and tumors on the skin and can help prevent the development of prostate, breast and cervical cancer.
Fungicide
Some fungal infections have been shown to be neutralized by milk thistle, which is likely to be related to the effects of the plant of fighting mushroom poisoning.
Diabetes
According to studies, antioxidants, fatty acids and silmarine mixture found in milk thistle can play a major role in regulating insulin levels and maintaining blood glucose levels in those who are ill or genetically predisposed to diabetes.
Alzheimer’s disease
Researchers believe that the extract of milk thistle can stimulate cognitive ability, thus slowing down dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Heart
As mentioned above, milk thistle is rich in fatty acids such as omega-3, which is essential to maintain the health of the heart. Omega-3 fatty acids can balance cholesterol levels, helping to prevent atherosclerosis and reduce the risk of stroke or heart attack.
Side effects of medication
If someone is injured or simply suffers from an inflamed tooth, painkillers come as the fast solution. However, these drugs have a strong effect not just on the pain but also on the liver. If you take an analgesic for a longer period of time, you may become addicted to it. In such cases, milk thistle can help protect the liver, which can be easily damaged by medication.