Milk Thistle

Milk Thistle is a flowering plant, related to the daisy and ragweed family. It is native to Mediterranean countries and is purple and prickly in appearance.

The active ingredients in the Milk Thistle plant are a group of compounds known as Silymarin. Silymarin is an antioxidant compound taken from Milk Thistle’s seeds.

This herbal remedy is known as Milk Thistle extract, which has a high amount of Silymarin (between 65–80%).

Milk Thistle is most commonly used to support liver health. It is thought to protect the liver from damage caused by toxins, such as alcohol and drugs. It may also help to improve liver function in people with liver diseases, such as hepatitis and cirrhosis.  

In addition to its liver-protective effects, Milk Thistle may also have other health benefits.

Some studies have shown that it may help to lower cholesterol levels, improve blood sugar control, and reduce inflammation. It may also be helpful for treating skin conditions, such as acne and psoriasis.

Milk Thistle is generally considered safe.

Nevertheless, pregnant women, those allergic to the Asteraceae family of plants, those with diabetes and anyone with an estrogen-sensitive condition should seek medical advice before taking it.

This is because Milk Thistle can change the way that your body metabolises certain drugs in the liver, triggering interactions with anti-inflammatory drugs such as Ibuprofen and antibiotics like Biaxin.