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Milk Thistle

Milk thistle has been used for medicinal purposes dating back 2000 years. Its botanical name is Silybum and is indigenous to Europe.

Milk thistle contains the antioxidant silymarin.

Historically, milk thistle has been used as treatment for liver dysfunctions. For centuries, Native Americans have used milk thistle to treat boils and other skin ailments. Today, the primary use of milk thistle is to treat various liver conditions, inflammation, gall bladder disease as well as hepatic problems related to diabetes.

The active ingredient Silibinin plays an important role in the treatment of hepatitis, cirrhosis and many other liver conditions. Milk thistle prevents toxic damage by stimulating the growth of new liver cells to replace damaged ones. Silymarin is known to stimulate the production of glutathione. Increased glutathione levels increases the potential for liver detoxification.

Milk thistle not only protects and regenerates the liver but also encourages the liver to cleanse itself of toxic substances such as alcohol, drugs, metals, pesticides, and anesthesia.