Spotted thistle
Silybum marianum
Milk Thistle – a natural herb to support the liver, digestion and general well-being
Milk thistle ( Silybum marianum L. ) is one of the most well-known medicinal plants, having occupied an important place in traditional European herbal medicine for centuries. This remarkable plant from the Asteraceae family, also known as Mary's thistle , is recognizable by its characteristic white-fleshy leaves and purple inflorescences, which, in addition to their visual beauty, hide a true wealth of natural active ingredients.
The most important active ingredient in milk thistle is silymarin – a complex of natural flavonolignans extracted from the fruit of the plant. Silymarin is often used in dietary supplements for its antioxidant properties and role in maintaining liver health . Due to its properties, milk thistle is considered one of the most important plants for internal support and protection of cells from oxidative stress .
Why is milk thistle so popular?
- support natural liver functions ,
- maintain the body's internal balance ,
- provide antioxidant protection for the organism,
- Incorporate plant support into your daily routine .
Traditional uses of milk thistle – from ancient Greece to the present day
As early as ancient records, such as the 1st-century works of the Greek physician Dioscorides, milk thistle is described as a plant traditionally used to support the liver . In European herbal traditions, it was used for a variety of conditions, such as jaundice , digestive problems , and as an aid in cleansing the body .
Due to its widespread use in folk medicine and subsequent scientific interest, milk thistle now appears in numerous nutritional and herbal supplements intended for general metabolic support and internal balance .
Silymarin – the active ingredient in milk thistle
Silymarin is the main active ingredient in milk thistle fruit and is a complex of compounds such as silybin, silychristin and silydianin . These compounds act as natural antioxidants that help protect cells from harmful free radicals and support liver cell regeneration .
Although milk thistle is traditionally recommended for various digestive and liver problems, it is important to emphasize that its effectiveness is based on the content of standardized silymarin extracts , which are used in many pharmaceutical preparations.
Possible benefits of milk thistle (according to scientific research)
1. Supports liver health
Silymarin acts as a liver cell protector and can help reduce the negative effects of environmental stress, diet, alcohol and other external factors. Its protective function is based on its effect on cell membranes and the stimulation of protein synthesis , which can contribute to better liver regeneration .
2. Powerful antioxidant support
As a plant antioxidant, it neutralizes free radicals that are produced in the body due to stress, improper diet, pollution, and other factors. The antioxidant activity of milk thistle contributes to the protection of cells throughout the body, not just the liver.
3. Natural support for digestion and bile secretion
Milk thistle can support the natural secretion of bile , which has a beneficial effect on fat digestion and overall digestive comfort . Therefore, it is often used as an herbal digestive supplement , especially during periods of dietary stress.
4. Use in nutricosmetics
Due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, milk thistle is often included as an ingredient in nutricosmetic supplements that support skin, hair, and nail health . Some research also links its effects to slowing down the skin aging process .
Who is milk thistle for?
- Adults who frequently take medications or are exposed to toxins (alcohol, pesticides, pollution),
- Those who want to naturally support liver function and digestion ,
- Individuals seeking natural antioxidant protection ,
- People who want to incorporate herbal wellness support into their routine.
Recommended use
There are various milk thistle products available on the market – from teas , ground fruits , to capsules with standardized silymarin extract . When using products with a high silymarin content (in capsules), the recommended daily intake is between 200–400 mg. When using tea, it is recommended to prepare a fresh drink 3–4 times a day, but it should be noted that silymarin is not water-soluble , so teas are not the optimal source of the active ingredient for liver support.
Safety of use and warnings
- Milk thistle products are not suitable for children , as safety and effectiveness in this group have not been proven.
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women are advised against use unless otherwise advised.
- Allergic reactions are possible, especially in people sensitive to plants from the aster family.
- Caution is required when used concomitantly with certain medications , especially medications for the liver and blood sugar.
Milk thistle – a plant with history, science and future
Although milk thistle originates from traditional herbalism , its effects are now recognized by modern science. Due to its rich content of silymarin and proven antioxidant role , milk thistle is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to naturally support liver function , balance digestion , and contribute to overall well-being .
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