Native herb of the warmer North-American and Mediterranean countries, it is also known as a natural detoxifier. Milk thistle gets its name from the milky substance that ounces out of the leaves when crushed. More often utilized as a supplement, the seeds and leaves of Milk thistle are also consumed either in a pill, powdered form or in its raw form.
NUTRITIONAL PROFILE
It serves as a rich source of proteins, carbohydrates, fats and fibre. It is a reservoir of mineral nutrients such as copper, iron, magnesium, zinc, nickel, manganese. Majorly used in a derived supplementary form or as a brewed tea, it is nearly free from fats. A potent anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, ‘Silymarin’ (a combination of flavonoids) is the main active ingredient of Milk Thistle and confers several benefits to it.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF MILK THISTLE
Here are a few health benefits of Milk Thistle
1 . Improves Liver Function
-The active flavonoids with anti-oxidants properties reverses the free radical damage caused to our digestive system, especially the liver.
-It cleanses the liver and boosts its functioning thereby improving medical conditions like the fatty-liver syndrome, jaundice, hepatitis, cirrhosis etc.
2 . Aids Kidney and Gall-bladder Function
-Alike its effect on the liver, consumption of milk thistle supplements aids the working of the kidney and gall-bladder.
-Its anti-oxidative nature stimulates cell regeneration and purifies blood besides improving the circulation of bile. Patients undergoing dialysis and those suffering from gall-bladder stone can benefit from the regular intake of milk thistle supplement.
3 . Helps Prevent Cancer
-Recent studies have shown that ‘Silymarin’ is effective in checking the growth of cancer cells and also stifles the growing cancer cells in the human body.
-Silybin, a flavonoid found in Milk thistle, protects the healthy cells from getting infected. Its anti-oxidizing nature helps the body counter the oxidative damage caused by free radicals.
4 . Controls Bad Cholesterol
-Research shows that milk thistle’s active component, ‘Silymarin’ decreases LDL (bad cholesterol) and raises HDL (good cholesterol) levels in our blood.
-This improves the overall cardiovascular health and significantly reduces the chances of heart-attacks.
5 . Promotes Healthy Skin
-Being a natural detoxifier, it acts as a purifying agent for our blood and enables it to carry more oxygen thereby imparting a healthy glow to our skin.
-Alongisde, it also acts as a powerful anti-oxidant and prevents the onset of zits, acne and pimples.
6 . Regulates Blood Sugar
-It restricts the glycemic index spikes that usually occur after the meals. This helps to control and manage the glucose levels in diabetics.
Broadly free of side-effects, the recommended dosage of milk thistle is up to 150 mgs per day for adults. However, those experiencing gas, diarrhoea, bloating or allergies after consuming milk thistle supplements should stop taking them and consult a doctor. Stay Healthy, Stay Happy!