Milk thistle - the great liver cleanser and antioxidant

Milk thistle has been used for centuries as a cure for a variety of diseases and problems. In early America it was used as an antidote for liver, kidney and spleen problems. Today, scientists have found that active ingredients in milk thistle may help protect the liver from disease, alcohol abuse and even toxins from over the counter drugs. Currently this herb is commonly prescribed throughout Europe as a part of treating liver disease, but is not widely used in the United States.

For liver disease experts recommend that supplements of milk thistle extract contain at least 70-80 percent silymarin, which is the active ingredient in this medicinal herb. For all forms of liver problems 400-600 milligrams should be taken three times a day.

Studies have also found that milk thistle may help in treating hepatitis, especially viral hepatitis C. However a few studies have also shown that this therapeutic herb has no effect. Another benefit of milk thistle extract may be in lowering cholesterol. A few preliminary studies show that it may work as well as some prescribed medications in lowering cholesterol and gives the patient the added benefit of increasing good cholesterol. It is also valuable because it has been found that an injection of liquid milk thistle can completely counteract the poisoning effects of deathcap mushroom.

This natural herb also works to keep the heart healthy, because of its antioxidant properties. Milk thistle extract may also help protect the heart from damage caused by prescriptions, but further studies on this aspect still need to be performed.

The herb is available as a tablet, tincture, softgel, liquid and capsule. Most experts do not recommend milk thistle teas as a way to treat liver disease because very little of the active ingredient actually reaches the liver. It is best to take this natural herb thirty minutes before eating and supplements that also contain phosphatidylcholine help the body absorb milk thistle more efficiently. This natural herb is considered very safe, but is not recommended for people taking certain drugs for HIV or AIDS so consult your doctor before use.

Learn more about health supplements and the benefits they may have on your health.