Milk thistle prevents liver destruction and enhances liver function through its ability to prevent toxin-induced damage, and by stimulating the growth of new liver cells to replace old damaged cells. Silymarin does not have a stimulatory effect on malignant liver tissue. Silymarin has been shown to stimulate the production of glutathione, by over 35 percent. Increased glutathione levels raise the liver’s detoxification potential to handle a wide range of hormones, drugs, and chemicals. Milk thistle has been shown to be protective in various types of liver insult including; cirrhosis, chronic viral hepatitis, fatty infiltration of the liver, subclinical cholestasis of pregnancy.
- LIVER PROTECTIVE
- ANTIOXIDANT
- ANTI INFLAMMATORY
- GALLSTONES
- PSORIASIS
Dosage:
Up to 600mg silymarin (milk thistle standardised to 80% silymarin) have been used in studies of alcoholic liver disease, with positive effect. Effective results have been shown using 420mg silymarin in cases of cirrhosis. No restriction on duration of use.
Organic tincture: 15-30 drops two to three times daily (half the amount for children under 12)
As silymarin possesses choleretic activity, it may produce a looser stool as a result of increased bile flow and secretion. If larger amounts are used it may be useful to include a fibre supplement containing psyllium husks to prevent mucosal irritation and encourage firm stools.
Potential applications:
Detoxification, reducing cholesterol, digestive tonic (bitter), stimulant to milk flow in nursing mothers, drug abuse, alcoholism, effects of long term treatment by conventional drugs, liver poisoning (notably the death cap mushroom). Shown to help stimulate adrenal function in those using long term steroid medication.
Neuropathy (shown to significantly reduce sorbitol accumulation). Reduces symptoms of toxic liver damage i.e. – nausea, itching, discomfort.
Known contraindications:
Milk thistle extract is virtually devoid of any side effects and may be used by most people, including pregnant and breast-feeding women. It has, in fact, been recommended as a treatment for itching due to poor gallbladder function during pregnancy. However, physician guidance is recommended in cases of pregnancy.
Interactions:
No adverse effects known.
Useful links:
Liver / gallbladder support– Flax seed oil, artichoke / schisandra, fibre complex, antioxidant complex, green food blend / blue food blend
Diet and lifestyle: aerobic exercise, back stretching, abdominal exercise, antioxidant rich diet (e.g. green leafy vegetables), low saturated / hydrogenated fats, keep hydrated (1.5 litres water). Therapeutic fast may be advisable (seek guidance). Avoid caffeine / alcohol /refined sugar.
Note:
Silymarin contains a mixture of 3 compounds known as silibin, silidianin, and silichristine. Silibin is the component with the greatest biological activity.
Directions:
As a food supplement, take one capsule daily with food, or as directed by your healthcare practitioner.
One vegetarian capsule provides:
| Ingredient | Weight | %EC NRV |
|---|---|---|
| Organic Milk Thistle seed | 400mg |
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