In this article you can read the instructions for use of the drug Milk thistle. Reviews of site visitors - consumers of this medicine, as well as the opinions of specialist doctors on the use of Milk Thistle in their practice are presented. We kindly ask you to actively add your reviews about the drug: whether the medicine helped or did not help get rid of the disease, what complications and side effects were observed, perhaps not stated by the manufacturer in the annotation. Analogues of Milk Thistle in the presence of existing structural analogues. Use for the treatment of cirrhosis, hepatitis, fatty degeneration and other liver diseases in adults, children, as well as during pregnancy and lactation. Composition of the drug.
Milk thistle- a herbaceous plant of the Asteraceae family. Ripe fruits - Fructus Silybi mariani - are used as medicinal raw materials. The fruit contains a group of flavonoid compounds designated as silymarin (Silimari). Three separate isomeric compounds have been isolated from silymarin - silibinin, silydianin and silicristin - having a phenylchromanone structure and having a hepatoprotective effect to varying degrees.
Clinically, these compounds manifest themselves in improving subjective and objective symptoms and normalizing indicators of the functional state of the liver (transaminases, bilirubin). This leads to an improvement in general condition, a reduction in complaints related to digestion, and in patients with impaired digestion of food due to liver disease, it leads to an improvement in appetite and an increase in body weight.
Compound
Milk thistle extract (silymarin) + excipients.
Pharmacokinetics
Interacts with free radicals in the liver and reduces their toxicity. By interrupting the process of lipid peroxidation, it prevents further destruction of cellular structures. In damaged hepatocytes, it stimulates the synthesis of structural and functional proteins and phospholipids (due to specific stimulation of RNA polymerase A), stabilizes cell membranes, prevents the loss of cellular components and intracellular enzymes (transaminases), and accelerates the regeneration of liver cells. Inhibits the penetration of certain hepatotoxic substances (poisons of the toadstool fungus) into cells. Subjected to enterohepatic circulation. Metabolized in the liver by conjugation. It is excreted mainly in bile in the form of glucuronides and sulfates, and to a small extent in urine. Does not accumulate. After repeated oral administration of 140 mg 3 times a day, a stable concentration is achieved.
Improves the general condition of patients with liver diseases, reduces subjective complaints, normalizes laboratory parameters (activity of transaminases, gamma-glutamyltransferase, alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin level). Long-term use significantly increases the survival rate of patients suffering from liver cirrhosis.
Indications
- toxic liver damage (alcoholism, intoxication with halogenated hydrocarbons, heavy metal compounds, drug-induced liver damage) and their prevention;
- chronic hepatitis;
- liver cirrhosis (as part of complex therapy);
- conditions after infectious and toxic hepatitis;
- dystrophy and fatty infiltration of the liver;
- correction of lipid metabolism disorders.
Release forms
Capsules 300 mg.
Tablets 500 mg.
Oil for internal use (produced by pressing milk thistle seeds).
Instructions for use and method of use
Oil
Adults and children over 12 years old: 0.5 teaspoon 2 times a day with meals. The course of admission is 30 days.
Capsules
Adults and children over 12 years old: 5 capsules 2 times a day with meals. The course of admission is 30 days.
Side effect
- diarrhea;
- allergic reactions;
- children under 12 years of age;
- hypersensitivity to the components of the drug.
Contraindications
- hypersensitivity.
Use during pregnancy and breastfeeding
There is no data on the adverse effects of the drug on reproductive function in animals. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, it can be used for medical reasons and if the benefit of treatment with the drug outweighs the risk to the fetus.
Use in children
Contraindicated in children under 12 years of age.
special instructions
Treatment with Milk Thistle cannot replace diet or abstinence from anything in case of liver damage (for example, alcohol).
Use with caution in patients with hormonal disorders (endometriosis, uterine fibroids, breast, ovarian and uterine carcinoma, prostate carcinoma) due to the possible estrogen-like effect of silymarin.
In patients with impaired digestion of food due to liver disease, it leads to improved appetite and weight gain. It is mistakenly believed that the drug can be used for weight loss, but this is incorrect; metabolic processes in a sick body are normalized.
In folk medicine, oil, seeds, meal and cake remaining after squeezing the oil from milk thistle seeds are widely used.
Impact on the ability to drive vehicles and operate machinery
Milk thistle does not adversely affect the ability to drive or operate machines.
Drug interactions
When Milk Thistle is used together with oral hormonal contraceptives and medications intended for hormone replacement therapy, the effects of the latter may be reduced.
Silymarin can enhance the effects of diazepam, alprazolam, ketoconazole, lovastatin, vinblastine due to its inhibitory effect on microsomal enzymes of the cytochrome P450 system.
Analogs of the drug Milk thistle
Structural analogues of the active substance:
- Karsil;
- Karsil Forte;
- Legalon;
- Silegon;
- Silibinin;
- Silimar;
- Silymarin.
Analogs by pharmacological group (hepatoprotectors):
- Antraliv;
- Berlition;
- Bonjigar;
- Brenziale forte;
- Vitanorm;
- HepaMerz;
- Gepabene;
- Hepatosan;
- Hepatofalk planta;
- Hepaphor;
- Heptor;
- Heptral;
- Geptrong;
- Glutargin;
- Dipana;
- Cawehol;
- Karsil;
- Laennec;
- Legalon;
- Liv 52;
- Livodex;
- Livolife Forte;
- Lipoic acid;
- Maxar;
- Methionine;
- Metro;
- Molixan;
- Octolipen;
- Ornitsetil;
- Prohepar;
- Result Pro;
- Ropren;
- Sibektan;
- Silegon;
- Silymarin;
- Sirepar;
- Thiolipon;
- Thiotriazolin;
- Tykveol;
- Urdoxa;
- Ursodez;
- Ursodeoxycholic acid;
- Ursodex;
- Ursoliv;
- Ursor;
- Ursosan;
- Ursofalk;
- Phosphogliv;
- Phosphogliv forte;
- Phosphonciale;
- Hepabos;
- Choludexan;
- Exhol;
- Erbisol;
- Eslidin;
- Essentiale;
- Essentiale forte N;
- Essential phospholipids;
- Essliver;
- Essliver forte.
If there are no analogues of the drug for the active substance, you can follow the links below to the diseases for which the corresponding drug helps, and look at the available analogues for the therapeutic effect.
Update: October 2018
Milk thistle, also called milk thistle, is an annual or biennial medicinal plant, a member of the Asteraceae family and the Milk thistle genus.
Milk thistle is native to the Mediterranean countries, the Iberian and Balkan peninsulas. The culture has spread widely throughout the world, growing in Africa, Eastern and Western Europe, America and Central Asia.
In the wild it grows in weedy places and is classified as an aggressive weed. It is actively cultivated to obtain valuable medicinal raw materials in the southern parts of Russia, Ukraine and China. The medicinal properties and contraindications of milk thistle are well known today, so the plant is a medicinal raw material for the pharmaceutical industry.
Morphological description
The cultivated species is an annual, and the wild one is a thorny biennial plant.
Reaches a height of up to 1.5 meters. The stem has a simple or branched structure, glabrous. Large elliptical or pinnately shaped leaves are arranged alternately. There are yellowish spines at the edge of the leaf, and veins at the bottom. The leaf blade is green and has white spots on it. The surface of the leaf is shiny.
The flowers are pink, purple or pure white. Collected in spherical single baskets with a wrapper that consists of spiny leaves. The inflorescence bed has a fleshy structure and is covered with hairs. The flowers are tubular, bisexual. The fruit is an achene with a tuft, which has a bitter taste. Flowering occurs in the summer months, July-August.
Collection, preparation and storage
Milk thistle seeds are collected from August to October, because seeds ripen unevenly. The formation of white fluff in the baskets indicates the readiness of the seeds - to obtain them, the baskets themselves are cut off using pruners. They are placed on a sieve in one layer, under which clean paper is spread and dried in this way. It is important that the room is sufficiently ventilated, but without drafts, since the seeds are small and can simply fly apart. After drying, the thorns are cut off from the baskets, broken, and the seeds are shaken out and dried on paper. Store in fabric bags in the dark and dry for 3 years.
The roots are collected in the fall - they are dug up, washed with water and prepared for drying: crushed and dried in an oven at temperatures up to 50 degrees or indoors. Store in glass jars for 1 year.
Leaves are also harvested in the fall - laid on a cloth or paper in a thin layer and dried under conditions of sufficient ventilation. Store in glass jars for 1 year.
Milk thistle juice is harvested during the period when the plant shoots out its arrow - the first baskets open. To obtain it, the 5 largest leaves are removed from each stem, crushed and the juice is squeezed out. Preserve the valuable product as follows: for 1 liter of juice - 50 ml of 70% alcohol, mix and store in the cold.
Chemical composition
The roots, leaves and seeds of the plant contain about 400 substances, including:
- Silymarin is the main beneficial substance that makes milk thistle so popular. This is a biologically active component (hepatoprotector), a protective and restorative effect on cell membranes, activating the growth of new cells and the synthesis of protein molecules, increasing the production of bile and neutralizing the effect of toxic substances;
- Fatty and essential oils, involved in the regeneration of cells and tissues, normalization of metabolic processes and elimination of inflammation. They have an anti-carcinogenic effect, normalize the function of the central nervous system, enhance gastrointestinal motility and promote wound healing;
- Phenolic compounds lignans(silicristin, silybin, silydianin) help eliminate toxins, excess cholesterol, normalize the balance of hormones, accelerate metabolism and normalize the functioning of the central nervous system;
- Proteins are involved in the synthesis of hormones, enzymes and antibodies, as well as in the transport of hemoglobin, normalize hormone levels, and strengthen the immune system.
- Flavonoids strengthen capillaries, normalize blood pressure and heart rate, participate in the neutralization of free radicals, stimulate the function of the adrenal cortex, and have an anti-inflammatory effect;
- Alkaloids (taxifolin) normalize blood circulation, reduce the severity of pain, stimulate the central nervous system (in small doses) or inhibit it (in large doses);
- Resins have a disinfectant effect, destroy pathogenic flora, increase the body's protective potential;
- Mucus has an anti-inflammatory effect and accelerates wound healing;
- Saponins enhance the secretory function of the bronchial glands, activate the synthesis of corticosteroids, regulate water and salt metabolism, relieve inflammation;
- Organic acids activate metabolic processes, increase appetite, strengthen the immune system, and participate in detoxification of the body;
- Micro- and macroelements(selenium, manganese, calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, iodine, zinc, boron, copper) and vitamins (groups A, D, B, F, E, K and group B) have a complex immunostimulating, anti-carcinogenic, strengthening effect on the body and a normalizing effect on all metabolic processes.
Useful properties and applications
All parts of the plant (seeds, leaves, roots) have medicinal value.
- The roots and seeds are used in the preparation of decoctions used in the treatment of diseases of the stomach, liver, edema and urinary retention, convulsions and radiculitis, etc.
- Milk thistle seeds used to make oil, powder and flour. These forms enhance the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, are effective for diseases of the liver and spleen, prevent salt deposition and strengthen the vascular wall.
- Milk thistle powder cleanses the blood, reduces cholesterol and blood sugar, removes toxins, helps to lose weight.
- Milk thistle oil quickly heals wounds, has an anesthetic and anti-inflammatory effect and is effective in the treatment of burns, wounds, allergic rashes, as well as sore throat and gynecological diseases. When taken internally, the oil helps with myopia. It has an anti-sclerotic effect, strengthens vascular walls and is effective for heart diseases. Used to tone the body and strengthen the immune system. In cosmetology it is used to rejuvenate and nourish the skin and strengthen hair.
- The leaves are used to obtain juice, which has a laxative, diuretic and choleretic effect. In cooking, the leaves are used to make salads and various side dishes.
Thus, milk thistle preparations have the following effects:
- anti-inflammatory;
- hepatoprotective;
- wound healing;
- antiulcer;
- epithelializing;
- antioxidant;
- antitumor;
- choleretic;
- immunomodulatory;
- detoxifying;
- laxative;
- antisclerotic;
- restorative;
- diuretic.
Milk thistle is one of the most effective hepatoprotectors: it stabilizes the biomembranes of hepatocyte cells, improves the antioxidant and detoxification functions of the liver, activates the synthesis of glutathione, which is a source of antioxidants, and accelerates the regeneration of damaged liver cells. The plant protects normal hepatocytes from damage, increasing resistance to infectious agents and toxins.
In addition, there is an improvement in the secretory functions of the gastrointestinal tract, digestion of food due to increased production of bile, and an increase in the body’s protective capabilities against infections and poisoning. There is a suppression of the synthesis of histamines, which provoke the development of allergies and headaches. The metabolism of estrogen hormones accelerates. Promotes the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Normalizes cholesterol levels and ensures complete digestion of fats without intermediate products. Promotes healing of ulcers. Helps you lose weight.
The plant has found application in many areas of medicine and is indicated in the following cases:
- Gastroenterology: liver dystrophy, hepatitis C, determined by alcohol, toxins or radiation, jaundice, colitis, cholelithiasis, colitis, dysbacteriosis.
- Urology: urinary retention.
- Toxicology: chronic poisoning with medicinal and narcotic substances, alcohol, poisonous mushrooms, food intoxication.
- Gynecology: toxicosis of pregnant women (in consultation with a doctor), inflammatory diseases.
- Cardiology: to strengthen the vascular wall and improve heart function, thrombocytopathy.
- Preventatively: people located in environmentally unfavorable places, employed in hazardous working conditions.
- : during the period of chemotherapy or radiation therapy to cleanse the blood of toxic substances, radionuclides and heavy metals.
- Endocrinology: to normalize lipid metabolism and reduce cholesterol, in the fight against obesity, diabetes, thyroid diseases.
- Neurology: radiculitis, myopathy.
- Dermatology: , baldness, acne, allergies, dermatoses, .
- Dentistry and ENT: , pharyngitis.
- Cosmetology: skin rejuvenation and cleansing.
- Rheumatology: arthritis and polyarthritis, salt deposition in joints.
Pharmaceutical preparations of milk thistle
|
Prescribed to improve digestive function, normalize liver function, and tonify the body. Brew as usual tea and take 3-4 times a day. |
 Recommended for pathologies of the biliary tract, spleen and liver, colitis, hemorrhoids, diseases of the heart and ENT organs. According to the instructions for use of milk thistle syrup, take 1 tbsp. before meals, three times a day. |
 It is considered as a complete source of flacovonoids and is prescribed to protect the liver from toxins and other harmful effects, 1 capsule once a day. during meals for a course of 4-6 weeks. |
 Used for liver pathologies and for their prevention, as well as for damage to functional tissues, to remove free radicals and toxins: 1 table. 1 time per day during meals. |
 Used to treat psoriasis, atherosclerosis, and intoxications. Take 1 tsp. with water, maximum amount - 5 times a day for 30 days. |
 Helps in the treatment of diseases of the liver, heart, ulcers, gastritis, intoxications, and is also prescribed for external psoriasis, acne, baldness, lichen planus, etc. Take half a teaspoon 2-3 times a day. during meals or lubricate damaged skin 1-2 times a day. In cosmetology, it is used for masks applied to the scalp, as well as for rejuvenating and refreshing the skin (wiping, adding oil to creams). |
 These are crushed seeds from which the oil has been pressed. An excellent source of fiber that helps with bowel function. Effective for diseases of the liver, respiratory system, spleen, heart and pancreas, cholelithiasis, colitis, hemorrhoids. Take 1 tsp. three times a day. before meals, with water. |
Analogs of milk thistle tablets and capsules according to the active substance: Karsil, Silymarin, Legalon, Silegon, Silimara (see full).
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| Karsil | Silymarin | Legalon | Silimara | Gepabene |
Treating milk thistle at home
General rules for using milk thistle
For greater effect, it is recommended to take all forms before meals, about half an hour. The course of treatment ranges from 3 weeks to 1.5 months. People taking plant preparations for preventive purposes should do this at least twice a year.
| What is it used for? | How to use | |
Infusion |
It is used to treat the liver (including cirrhosis of any etiology), accelerate the excretion of bile, reduce joint pain, and for preventive purposes at the risk of developing cancer. | 2 tbsp. powder from the seeds is poured with boiling water (500 ml) and left for 12 hours, filtered and squeezed. Take 120 ml four times a day. |
Tea |
Used for alcohol intoxication, hangover syndrome, as well as for alcohol intoxication to remove a person from this state. | 1 tbsp. seeds are poured with boiling water in a volume of 250 ml, left for 10 minutes and drunk at a time. Relief occurs within 15 minutes. |
Tincture |
Used to treat dermatological diseases (externally) and reduce blood cholesterol levels (internally). | Seeds in an amount of 50 grams are poured into 500 ml of vodka and kept in the dark for 14 days. Take 25 drops before meals for 1 month. Apply externally to the affected skin 2-3 times a day. |
Juice |
Relieves joint pain, normalizes the gastrointestinal tract and metabolism, cleanses the skin and has an anti-inflammatory, cleansing and laxative effect. | Prepare the juice yourself (see above) and drink 1 tbsp. in the morning, on an empty stomach. |
Decoction |
Indicated for all pathologies of the liver, pancreas, kidneys, joints. Traditional healers recommend a decoction for cancer. Used for toothache (mouth rinse). | 30 g of seeds are poured into 500 ml of water and cooked slowly over low heat until half has boiled away. For liver diseases, take 1 tbsp. every 60 minutes for 12 hours, for example, from 9 am to 9 pm, for a course of 3 weeks. After a 14-day break, you can repeat the course. For other pathologies, it is enough to take 1 tablespoon three times a day. |
Oil |
In terms of effectiveness, milk thistle oil is equal to. It has anti-burn, wound-healing and hepatoprotective effects, is used in the treatment of the liver, and externally for the treatment of psoriasis, eczema, and allergies. | 5 tsp crushed seeds are mixed with half a liter of olive oil and boiled for a quarter of an hour in a water bath, left to infuse for 30 minutes after boiling. Take 1 tsp. three times a day. |
Powder |
Indicated for intoxication and poisoning, as well as during periods of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. | Dry seeds are ground into a homogeneous powder and taken 1 tbsp. 5 times a day. at regular intervals, washed down with water, until the symptoms completely stop. During irradiation courses, the powder is also used 1 tsp, but 4 times a day. |
Compress |
Effective for rapid healing of abrasions, cuts, scratches. | Fresh leaves, from which the thorns have been removed, are crushed into a pulp and applied to the injury on a sterile bandage. Daily procedures speed up skin healing by 2 times. |
Contraindications for use
- Individual intolerance
- Severe cardiovascular pathologies
- Mental illnesses (,
Milk thistle can reduce the effectiveness of hormone replacement therapy drugs and oral contraceptives and enhance the therapeutic effect of Lovastatin, Diazepam, Vinblastine, Alprazolam and Ketoconazole.
Thank you
The site provides reference information for informational purposes only. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases must be carried out under the supervision of a specialist. All drugs have contraindications. Consultation with a specialist is required!
Medicinal properties milk thistle (that’s what people call it I'll milk thistle) were identified back in ancient times. And all thanks to the unique composition of this plant, which contains about 400 active substances that have a wide range of effects on various organs and systems of the human body. We will talk in more detail about the composition and properties of milk thistle, the action of this plant, methods of use and advantages over traditional medicines in this article.Description of the plant milk thistle
Milk thistle, a member of the Asteraceae family, is one of the most beautiful and largest species of thistle. The plant is used primarily in the treatment of the liver, stomach and intestines. This plant has proven itself to be excellent in the fight against skin and gynecological diseases, cardiovascular pathologies, and diseases of the ENT organs. What does it look like?
This annual or biennial plant reaches a height of 60–150 cm (with proper cultivation, the height of milk thistle can exceed two meters).The erect, branched stem of the plant is covered in dark green or light green leaves, speckled with silver-pearl spots. In addition, milk thistle leaves have long yellow spines along the edges.
The inflorescences of the plant are collected in lilac baskets, the diameter of which is 5–6 cm. The fruit of milk thistle is a grey, light brown or black achene. The leaves that surround the basket are also equipped with sharp spines. Each achene has a tuft of hairs that are two to three times the length of the achene itself. The seeds are odorless, but have a bitter taste.
Where does it grow?
Milk thistle grows in Central and Southern Europe, as well as in Central Asia. But in Russia, this plant is widespread in the southern regions of the European part of the country, as well as in the southern part of Western Siberia. Milk thistle can mainly be found in wastelands, abandoned lands and along roads.Collection and storage
Both the underground and above-ground parts of the plant have medicinal properties, but the main value of milk thistle is, first of all, the seeds.When to harvest milk thistle?
Milk thistle seeds are collected from August to October (the seeds of the plant ripen unevenly), namely during the period when “parachutes” with seeds begin to fly and the baskets turn yellow. The main signal of seed ripening is the formation of white fluff in the baskets themselves. Baskets with seeds are cut using pruning shears.The roots of the plant are dug up in the fall (after the seeds have ripened) and washed under running water in preparation for drying. At the same time, milk thistle leaves are prepared.
Drying milk thistle
The cut baskets are laid in a thin layer on a sieve, under which paper or fabric is first spread. It is important that the room in which the baskets will be dried is ventilated, but strong drafts should be avoided (otherwise the “parachutes” with seeds will fly apart). After drying, use scissors to cut off the thorns from the baskets, then break them and shake out the seeds. To dry, the seeds are laid out in a thin layer on paper. In addition, you can collect the milk thistle baskets in a bag and thresh it well with a stick. Seeds are stored in a thoroughly ventilated area in fabric bags.
The roots, like the leaves, are crushed and dried either indoors or in a drying cabinet, the temperature in which should be about 40 - 50 degrees. Milk thistle roots and leaves are stored in closed glass containers.
The shelf life of seeds is three years, roots and leaves are one year.
Composition of milk thistle
As mentioned above, milk thistle contains a huge amount of biologically active substances. Let us describe the effect on the body of the main ones.Silymarin
This substance, rarely found in nature, protects and treats the membrane, which is the membrane of the cells of our body.
Action of silymarin:
- strengthening cell membranes;
- promoting the formation of new cells;
- stimulation of protein synthesis;
- increased bile production;
- neutralization of the effects of toxic substances.
Fixed oils
Action:
- promoting the regeneration of tissues and body cells;
- relieving inflammation;
- normalization of metabolic processes;
- promoting the wound healing process;
- protection from the adverse effects of carcinogenic substances.
Action of essential oil: - normalizes the functioning of the central nervous system;
- increases the secretion of glands several times;
- regulates (namely enhances) gastrointestinal motility.
Resins
Action:
- disinfect wounds;
- neutralize pathogenic microbes and bacteria;
- increase the body's defenses.
Action:
- eliminate foci of inflammation;
- accelerate wound healing;
- promote the removal of phlegm.
Action:
- remove toxins, thereby preventing the development of cancer;
- reduce the concentration of cholesterol, which prevents the formation of sclerotic plaques;
- normalize hormonal balance;
- accelerate metabolic processes;
- improve oxygen metabolism;
- regulate the functioning of the nervous system.
Action:
- strengthen capillaries;
- neutralize free radicals;
- normalize blood pressure;
- regulate the functioning of the central nervous system;
- stimulate the adrenal cortex;
- relieve inflammation;
- normalize heart rhythm.
Saponins
Action:
- increased secretion of the bronchial glands;
- promoting the process of synthesis of corticosteroids;
- regulation of water and salt metabolism;
- activation of hormone functions;
- relieving inflammation.
Action:
- increased appetite;
- activation of all metabolic processes, which leads to normalization of fat breakdown;
- strengthening immunity;
- removal of toxins;
- regulation of the digestive process.
Action:
- providing the body with hormones, antibodies and other vital enzymes;
- normalization of hormonal balance;
- hemoglobin transportation;
- strengthening the immune system.
Action of alkaloids:
- normalize blood circulation;
- neutralize pain syndrome;
- excite the central nervous system when taking small doses and depress when taking an increased dose.
Action:
- provide energy to the muscles, nervous system, and brain;
- relieve mental and physical fatigue;
- strengthen the immune system;
- synthesize hemoglobin;
- promote the production of sex hormones;
- improve the condition of the skin, hair, nails.
Action:
- neutralizes the destructive effects of free radicals that disrupt enzymatic reactions, which causes serious harm to the body;
- reduces the level of uric acid directly in the blood;
- regulates redox processes of cellular respiration;
- enhance the growth and development of bone tissue;
- increase capillary permeability;
- strengthen the immune system.
Action:
- ensures complete metabolism in both bone and connective tissues;
- promotes the absorption of calcium and its normal interaction with vitamin D;
- prevents the development of age-related inflammation, since it reduces the content of special substances in the body that are perceived by the immune system as a signal for aging;
- prevents possible bleeding during childbirth;
- neutralizes toxins that have a detrimental effect on the liver and provoke the development of serious diseases, one of which is cancer.
Milk thistle and vitamin E
Vitamin E is rightfully considered the main antioxidant among all vitamins. It is vitamin E that takes an active part in the process of neutralizing free radicals that disrupt many enzymatic reactions. Vitamin E is indicated for men and women with dysfunction of the gonads, as it normalizes the functioning of the reproductive system as a whole.
Action of selenium:
- increased perception of light by the retina;
- prevention of the development of liver diseases;
- neutralization (or paralysis) of aflatoxins, which protects cells from the negative carcinogenic effects of these poisons;
- eliminating hot flashes during menopause, as well as maintaining the safety of sperm, since a connection between selenium and sex hormones has been established;
- normalization of the thyroid gland;
- removal of radionuclides, as well as mercury from the body;
- exerting a direct toxic effect on tumor cells;
- acceleration of wound healing.
Small amounts of selenium have an antidystrophic and antiallergic effect by suppressing histamine.
Properties of milk thistle
Milk thistle preparations have the following range of properties:- anti-inflammatory;
- epithelializing;
- wound healing;
- antiulcer;
- antioxidant;
- hepatoprotective;
- choleretic;
- immunomodulatory;
- antitumor;
- restorative;
- antisclerotic;
- detoxifying;
- lactogenic;
- laxative;
- antiallergic;
- diuretic.
Milk thistle – hepatoprotector
Milk thistle is one of the most effective hepatoprotectors, which affects the body as follows:
- stabilizes hepatocyte biomembranes;
- increases the activity of detoxification and antioxidant systems of the liver;
- enhances the synthesis of glutathione, a unique substance called the “mother of antioxidants”;
- stimulates protein synthesis;
- stimulates regenerative processes, which accelerates the restoration of damaged liver cells.
Milk thistle is a choleretic agent
Milk thistle not only significantly enhances the formation of bile, but also accelerates its excretion, which helps normalize digestive processes and metabolism.It is the liver that is responsible for the production of bile, which ensures the breakdown of fats.
Thus, when the body is unable to detoxify, it negatively affects its functioning:
- general health deteriorates;
- mood "falls";
- sleep is disturbed;
- headaches appear;
- the skin loses its healthy appearance;
- there is a tendency to catch colds;
- blood circulation is impaired.
Milk thistle and cholesterol
Excess cholesterol, deposited on the walls of blood vessels, creates atherosclerotic plaques, as a result of which the lumen of the vessels narrows and blood flow becomes difficult. And this, in turn, can limit the access of oxygen to the brain and heart, leading to the development of various cardiovascular diseases, including heart attack and stroke.Milk thistle lowers cholesterol levels by removing it from the body. To do this, it is enough to take a tincture from the seeds of this plant three times a day for a month. To prepare the product, 50 g of raw materials are placed in a dark container and 500 ml of vodka is poured. Next, the product is closed and infused for two weeks. Take tincture 25 drops half an hour before eating. The course of treatment is repeated twice a year, and in between courses you can drink milk thistle tea.
The benefits and harms of milk thistle
It is simply impossible to overestimate the benefits of milk thistle, since this plant has found application in almost all areas of medicine. Hepatology
Milk thistle is used to treat many liver diseases, including:- Liver cirrhosis caused by alcohol, toxins or radiation.
Toxicology
It is used for chronic poisoning with alcohol, drugs, medications, food, accompanied by intoxication. In addition, milk thistle is indicated for pregnant women with toxicosis and people living in environmentally unfavorable areas.Few people know that milk thistle is a unique remedy that ensures survival in case of poisoning with toadstool.
Cardiology
In cardiology, the plant is used as a prophylactic agent that strengthens the cardiovascular system in general, and capillaries in particular.Oncology
Milk thistle preparations are recommended after chemotherapy or radiation therapy, as they effectively cleanse the blood and the entire body of toxins, heavy metals, radiation and radionuclides.Endocrinology
Milk thistle, by normalizing lipid metabolism, removing waste and toxins, promotes the loss of extra pounds, therefore it is used for obesity. This plant lowers blood sugar levels and is therefore used in the treatment of diabetes.Dermatology
The plant contains vitamin E, which has pronounced anti-inflammatory and restorative properties, so it is not surprising that milk thistle preparations are widely used in the treatment of skin diseases such as psoriasis, acne, vitiligo, and baldness.Cosmetology
In cosmetology, milk thistle oil is mainly used as one of the main ingredients of anti-aging, cleansing, wound-healing and tonic creams, balms and ointments.If we talk about the dangers of the plant, then if the dosage is correct and the doctor’s recommendations are followed, milk thistle preparations are absolutely harmless. Moreover, they are more effective and safer than drugs recognized by official medicine.
Action of milk thistle
- Improving the motor and secretory functions of the gastrointestinal tract.
- Increasing the body's protective properties to the effects of poisoning and infections.
- Suppressing the production of histamines, which provoke headaches and allergic reactions.
- Normalization of liver functions.
- Promoting the metabolism of hormones (especially estrogen hormones).
- Improving the digestion process by increasing bile production.
- Ensuring complete digestion of fats.
- Excellent absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
- Strengthening the detoxification function of the liver.
- Promoting liver tissue regeneration.
- Normalization of cholesterol.
- Improving the condition of the skin.
- Promoting the healing of ulcers.
- Promoting the process of losing weight.
Treatment using milk thistle
What does milk thistle treat?
Milk thistle preparations are used in the treatment of the following diseases:- dermatoses;
- allergic skin diseases;
- baldness;
- vitiligo;
- psoriasis;
- lichen planus;
- acne vulgaris;
- diabetes;
- hepatitis;
- cirrhosis of the liver;
- colitis;
- thrombocytopathy;
- radiculitis;
- arthritis;
- myopathy;
- convulsions;
- urinary retention;
- inflammation of the biliary tract;
- haemorrhoids;
- poisoning;
- gynecological diseases;
- diseases of the thyroid gland and spleen;
- salt deposits;
- open fractures;
- posthepatitis syndrome;
- toothache;
- heart disease (with caution and on the recommendation of a doctor);
- fatty liver;
- toxicosis;
- hyperkeratosis;
How to use?
Milk thistle is taken in the form of decoction, infusion, powder, tea, tincture, syrup, tablets. Milk thistle can also be included in other medications.The seeds are consumed in ground form, in the amount of 20 g per day (the powder is taken half an hour before meals, washed down with water). The daily dose is evenly distributed throughout the day.
You can brew the daily dose of powder in the evening (powder is poured into a thermos and filled with boiling water). This infusion is drunk the next day.
If milk thistle is included in medications, then you must follow your doctor’s recommendations or read the leaflet provided by the manufacturer of the medicine.
How to brew milk thistle?
To brew milk thistle, 2 tbsp. crushed raw materials (these can be plant roots or seeds) pour 500 ml of boiling water, after which the product is placed in a water bath for 20 minutes. The infusion, strained, squeezed and brought to its original volume with boiled water, is taken half a glass three times a day.Important! Milk thistle preparations are taken half an hour before meals, or an hour after.
Course of treatment with milk thistle preparations
The duration of treatment with milk thistle is from one to one and a half months (it all depends on the type of disease, its severity and the patient’s well-being). If necessary, you can repeat the course of treatment.Use of the medicinal herb milk thistle
Seeds (fruits)
Preparations from milk thistle fruits are used for diseases of the liver, kidneys, thyroid gland and spleen, and for alcohol and food poisoning. In addition, the seeds of the plant are an excellent prophylactic agent, indicated for use by residents of environmentally unfavorable regions. It is recommended to use the seeds for people involved in hazardous industries and athletes under high physical activity. Leaves
The leaves of the plant are used as a mild laxative, diuretic, choleretic and diaphoretic.Root
Preparations from milk thistle roots are mainly used in the treatment of the following diseases:- catarrh of the stomach;
- convulsions;
- toothache;
- urinary retention.
Ways to use milk thistle
Infusion
This form of milk thistle preparations is indicated for restoring liver function, removing bile, and eliminating pain from joint diseases.2 tbsp. Place milk thistle seed powder in a thermos and pour 500 ml of boiling water, then leave the product for 12 hours, strain, squeeze thoroughly and drink 130 ml four times a day.
Tincture
Milk thistle tincture is widely used in dermatology to treat skin diseases.Pour 50 g of seeds into half a liter of vodka, leave for two weeks (necessarily in a dark place), shaking occasionally. The strained tincture is taken 20 drops three times a day.
Decoction
Indicated for all diseases of the liver, pancreas, and kidneys. Also used in the treatment of cancer.To prepare the oil 5 tsp. crushed seeds are poured into 500 ml of olive oil, then the mixture is boiled in a water bath for about 15 minutes, infused for another half hour, filtered and taken a teaspoon three times a day.
You can purchase ready-made oil at the pharmacy, which is taken according to the instructions.
Milk thistle meal
Meal is the ground seeds of a plant from which milk thistle oil has been cold pressed. The powder obtained in this way is enriched with fiber, which cleanses the intestines and stimulates its functioning. Milk thistle seeds for the treatment and prevention of liver pathologies - video
Preparing juice from milk thistle leaves - video
Contraindications and side effects
Despite the harmlessness of milk thistle and the virtual absence of contraindications for use, this plant (like any other medicinal herb) should be used carefully and under the supervision of doctors. The fact is that milk thistle contains large amounts of calcium and phosphorus, which can lead to certain problems in the body. Thus, people with cardiovascular diseases should take milk thistle with caution, since the calcium and phosphorus contained in the plant can cause disruption of the functioning of the heart valve.Milk thistle is contraindicated in the following cases:
1.
Individual intolerance (extremely rare).
2.
Mental illnesses, including depression and epilepsy.
3.
Shortness of breath (can provoke attacks of suffocation).
Pregnant and lactating women must consult a doctor before taking milk thistle, who will determine the advisability of using the drug.
In general, milk thistle goes well with other medications.
Side effects
Side effects from taking milk thistle are extremely rare: mild pain in the liver area and diarrhea. If such symptoms last longer than two days, you must stop taking the plant.
Milk thistle and alcohol
Once in the body, milk thistle preparations neutralize the effects of alcohol, remove toxins and waste, thereby eliminating the following signs of a hangover:- headache;
- weakness;
Milk thistle is also actively used in the treatment of alcohol dependence, since it has a beneficial effect on liver function, which is primarily due to the antioxidant effect of the plant. It has been proven that taking milk thistle preparations (namely silymarin) for six months at a daily dosage of 420 mg led to biochemical changes in the body, indicating an increase in the antioxidant potential of not only cells, but also blood serum. At the same time, the concentration of substances that exhibited oxidizing properties decreased.
Milk thistle is an inexpensive, safe and effective method of reducing the progression of a disease such as cirrhosis of the liver (this disease is a sure companion of alcoholism).
Recipes with milk thistle
Compress for wound healing
The leaves, from which the thorns must first be cut off, are washed well and crushed to a mushy state. The resulting mixture is applied to the wound and bandaged. Abrasions, scratches and cuts will go away in 2-3 days if you apply such compresses daily.Decoction for arthritis and radiculitis
A tablespoon of milk thistle roots is poured into 250 ml of hot water (it is advisable to use enamel dishes). Next, the product is placed on low heat and boiled in a closed container for another 20 minutes. Removed from the heat, the hot broth is filtered through a triple layer of gauze, after which it is diluted with boiling water to 250 ml. Take a tablespoon of the decoction three times a day.The same recipe in the form of rinses will help cope with toothache, while taking it orally will cure urinary retention and cramps.
Decoction for liver and gastrointestinal diseases
Pour 30 g of seeds into half a liter of water, bring the product to a boil over low heat until half the liquid evaporates. The remaining broth is removed from the heat and infused for 10 minutes, after which it is carefully filtered and taken 1 tbsp. every hour for twelve hours. The course of treatment with this decoction is 21 days, then a break is taken for two weeks, and then the course continues for another 21 days.Powder for poisoning
The seed powder can be consumed 5 times a day, one tablespoon at a time, to relieve symptoms of poisoning (the decoction should be taken at regular intervals). The course of treatment lasts until the symptoms of poisoning are completely eliminated.In addition, milk thistle powder is indicated during radiation or chemotherapy, one dessert spoon four times a day (as in the previous case, milk thistle is taken at regular intervals). The powder is taken for 20 – 25 days.
Before use, you should consult a specialist.Milk thistle for the liver in tablets gives simply amazing results. Rarely causes side effects. Heals the body. Has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects. Helps restore the liver and prevents its further destruction. Removes waste and toxins.
Useful properties of the plant
Milk thistle is a plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. It can be annual or biennial. The stem is bare and branched in places. The flowers are pink. The bed is fleshy and completely covered with soft hairs. Flowering occurs in August. The fruit is an achene with a tuft.
There are two types of milk thistle, but only one, the spotted variety, is used in medicine. It contains a large amount of nutrients. It contains flavonoids and flavolignans, including silydianin, silibinin, and silicristin. The composition contains alkaloids, fatty oil, up to 25%, saponins, vitamins, micro- and macroelements. The plant is rich in resin, proteins, histamine and tyramine.
Milk thistle is valued for:
- improves the condition of the digestive tract;
- increases appetite;
- promotes weight gain;
- has a beneficial effect on the liver;
- lowers cholesterol and normalizes blood sugar levels;
- controls the synthesis of sex hormones;
- increases hemoglobin content;
- treats diseases of the oral cavity;
- has a positive effect on the genitourinary system.
Milk thistle is beneficial for the entire body, but it must be taken wisely. After all, if used incorrectly, adverse reactions are possible.
Effect of milk thistle on the liver
The liver is one of the important components of our body. She suffers most from poor nutrition, medication and negative environmental influences. Long-term negative effects on the liver lead to various diseases. The most severe of which are hepatitis and cirrhosis.
To restore liver cells, doctors often prescribe milk thistle to patients. The herbal remedy is used both in its natural form and in the form of meal, capsules, oil and tablets. Milk thistle for the liver in tablets facilitates the treatment process and eliminates the need for daily brewing of the herb, taking into account the dosage.
This culture:
- Helps liver membranes recover, heal and strengthen;
- stimulates its cleansing function;
- has a positive effect on blood circulation in small vessels;
- has a beneficial effect on the gallbladder;
- normalizes protein metabolism and bile secretion;
- binds together and removes toxic compounds from the body;
- prevents liver dystrophy;
- has antioxidant properties.
Milk thistle is a hepatoprotector of plant origin. It can be used both in the treatment of the liver and for the prevention of diseases of this organ.
Indications for use
Milk thistle for the liver in tablets (instructions for the herbal remedy are attached and describe in detail all the nuances of administration) is indicated for intoxication of the liver organ, which arose due to prolonged alcohol intake, under the influence of halogenated hydrocarbons and heavy metals, as well as as a result of drug therapy.
It is recommended to take it for chronic, toxic and infectious hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, but only in complex treatment. Intended use is liver dystrophy and lipid metabolism disorder. Milk thistle tablets are prescribed for fatty liver infiltration.
The herb in tablets is used for cholecystitis, nephrolithiasis and biliary dyskinesia. Milk thistle eliminates the effects of therapy with nephrotoxic drugs and helps with bile stagnation and urolithiasis.
In some cases, silymarin (milk thistle extract) is taken to prevent liver diseases.
When should you not take pills?
Milk thistle for the liver in tablets has only positive reviews. But despite this, the drug can cause harm. Especially if you do not follow the treatment regimen and do not take into account contraindications.
You should not take the herbal preparation if you are allergic to the ingredients contained in the tablets. You should avoid herbal treatment during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. Milk thistle should not be used for children under 12 years of age, as well as for pancreatitis, cholecystitis and liver failure. It is prohibited to use herbal remedies for epilepsy and asthma.
Typically, milk thistle tablets are well tolerated and only rarely cause side effects. Among the negative reactions are:
- nausea;
- diarrhea;
- dyspepsia;
- skin rashes;
- alopecia.
All negative effects are temporary and disappear after discontinuation of the drug.
Milk thistle for the liver in tablets: instructions
Reviews from people who have taken the drug to treat the liver note that the tablets improve its condition and do not cause side effects. The medicine must be taken for a long time. The course is 30 days or more depending on the doctor's prescription. After a break, therapy can be resumed.
Milk thistle tablets for the liver are taken 1-2 tablets up to three times a day. In cases of severe liver damage, the dose is increased to 3-4 tablets at a time. For prevention purposes, 2-3 tablets per day are prescribed.
The exact regimen for using the drug is prescribed by the doctor.
Special instructions for treatment
Judging by the reviews, milk thistle for the liver in tablets quickly and effectively cures diseases of the internal organs. The instructions for use warn that the tablets cannot replace a diet that is indicated for liver diseases.
Herbal tablets should be used with caution if there are diseases caused by hormonal imbalances in the body. Such ailments include:
- uterine fibroids;
- carcinoma of the female genital organs, mammary and prostate glands;
- endometriosis.
In this case, silymarin acts on the activity of estrogen. If a person has problems with the gastrointestinal system, then milk thistle can increase appetite and cause weight gain. Therefore, the herbal remedy should not be used for weight loss. It also normalizes metabolic processes in the body of a sick person.
Review of milk thistle preparations in tablets
Milk thistle for the liver in tablets (reviews indicate that for liver diseases, the herbal remedy needs to be taken for a long period) is sold in every pharmacy. There are many drugs containing it. The most popular are:
"Karsil" and "Karsil forte". These preparations are created from the seeds of milk thistle and have a number of positive properties:
- normalize the condition of cell membranes;
- stimulate the synthesis of protein compounds;
- normalize lipid metabolism;
- protect from negative influences;
- have antioxidant properties;
- reduce bilirubin;
- restore cells.
"Legalon". The product is made from milk thistle concentrate:
- stimulates tissue regeneration processes;
- removes toxins;
- prevents further destruction of liver cells;
- activates RNA polymerase and protein synthesis;
- prevents the absorption of toxic substances.
Tablets have different concentrations of the active substance.
"Silegon". The active ingredient is silibinin. The drug is created from the fruits of milk thistle. Used for liver intoxication, cirrhosis and hepatitis at different stages of development. Indicated for hyperlipoproteinemia.
"Silibinin". Made from milk thistle fruit. Used for various diseases of the liver and biliary tract. It rarely causes side effects and has virtually no contraindications.
"Silimar". The drug is made in Russia. Created from dry milk thistle extract. Used for toxic liver damage, various forms of hepatitis and cirrhosis. It can also be used to prevent toxicosis.
"Silymarin Hexal". Made from milk thistle extract. Used for liver diseases in complex therapy. Clears away toxins. Used for lipid metabolism disorders.
Milk thistle for the liver in tablets: reviews from doctors
Doctors usually do not trust traditional medicine, so they rarely prescribe herbal treatment. Despite this, drugs such as Karsil, Silimar, and Legalon have earned the trust of doctors. They are often prescribed by doctors to their patients to restore the liver after hepatitis and cirrhosis. It is recommended to take these tablets even after a course of antibiotics, when the liver begins to ache.
To avoid side effects, these drugs should not be overused. You need to take the tablets in a strictly defined dosage prescribed by your doctor. In the advanced stage of disease development, milk thistle is used in combination with serious medications. Otherwise, the disease may progress, which significantly complicates further treatment.
Milk thistle for hepatitis: what do patients say?
The beneficial properties of milk thistle or thistle have been known since ancient times. And now this weed is widely used to treat many diseases, including:
In addition, it helps reduce cholesterol in the body and prevents the development of cancer cells. Moreover, the plant has the same healing effect regardless of the form of its use - oil, infusion or meal. But, speaking of the enormous benefits, not everyone knows whether milk thistle has contraindications and side effects. And this topic deserves a lot of attention. Let's talk about this in more detail.
Like almost any medicine, milk thistle has contraindications, so for some diseases and conditions it should be used with great caution. For example, it is not recommended for people suffering from bronchial asthma, as it may cause cause of attacks of shortness of breath. For cholelithiasis and urolithiasis, thistle, which has a good choleretic effect, can cause painful attacks when stones are displaced. This herb also reduces iron reserves in the human body, so it is contraindicated for anemia. And for people with cardiovascular diseases, it should not be consumed due to the increased content of phosphorus and potassium. In addition, contraindications for the use of milk thistle are: depression, mental illness, epilepsy, exacerbation of cholecystitis, hepatic and renal colic, pancreatitis, appendicitis, diarrhea, reflex disease. The weed can cause great harm to pregnant women, nursing mothers and children under 12 years of age. Sometimes people experience individual intolerance to milk thistle or an allergy to plants from the Asteraceae family, which manifests itself in the form of abdominal pain, skin rash, diarrhea or constipation. Also, thistle should not be combined with drugs such as St. John's wort, nizoral, astemizole, methadone, triazolam, erythromycin, cisapride and fluoxetine, as they will take longer to be eliminated from the body. If you take it simultaneously with oral contraceptives, their effectiveness will be significantly reduced. Additionally, many people do not know that milk thistle should not be consumed beyond 41 months as it can be addictive.
The side effects of milk thistle are also worth considering. Studies have shown that excessive consumption of the plant causes headaches, and in some cases very severe ones. Many people complain of frequent joint pain that interferes with everyday activities. Often, after consuming this weed, insomnia and general weakness appear. You can also experience a skin rash, itching, breathing problems, swelling of the lips and mouth, loss of appetite, etc. And with long-term use of thistle, bloating, flatulence, diarrhea or nausea very often occur.
In general, side effects from taking milk thistle are quite rare, but it is better to take the necessary precautions and seek the advice of a specialist before using it. The doctor will prescribe the required dosage of the drug, taking into account all side effects and contraindications, as well as your physique and individual characteristics of the body. If, simultaneously with the use of milk thistle, you notice a deterioration in your health, then you need to stop using it and choose another remedy that does not have contraindications.
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