Did you know the effects of milk thistle on a molecular level have been studies since the 1970s? Most of the research has been conducted in Europe, where the plant is cultivated and the seeds are gathered.
Extracts from the seeds contain compounds called silymarins.
The silymarin content of the different extracts on the market vary greatly.
80% is the best concentration you will find.
The seeds are very small and contain just a small amount, approximately 4-6%.
In addition to the extracts, the seeds are sometimes sold by herbalists.
If you are shopping for a product, it is important to be sure that it comes from the seeds, not the other portions of the plant.
The roots, stems and shoots are edible, but they do not contain the medicinally active silymarin.
Historically, the seeds have been used to treat liver and gall bladder disorders.
The results seen in modern-day studies vary, according to the dosage given and whether or not co-supplementation is recommended.
When taken alone, silymarin has low bioavailability, which means that very little ends up in the bloodstream.
Co-supplementation with lecithin improves absorption.
In laboratory studies concerning the effects of milk thistle, anti-viral, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity have been seen.
A concentrated extract, combined with other nutrients to improve absorption, could be beneficial for acute and chronic viral infections, such as hepatitis C.
As a natural anti-inflammatory, silymarin addresses one of the causes of cellular aging.
As an antioxidant, it addresses another; free radical damage.
Free radical molecules are among the underlying causes of wrinkles and skin cancer.
The benefits to the inside of the body are difficult to see, but after taking a good supplement, it is not unusual to see a reduction in fine lines, the depth of wrinkles or the skin's firmness.
An antioxidant-rich cream can enhance the effect and speed up the results.
Other effects of milk thistle that have been studied include the regeneration of liver cells.
The liver is a naturally regenerative organ.
But, exposure to toxins, excessive alcohol intake, smoking cigarettes or the use of certain prescription drugs hampers the organ's ability to regenerate.
Silymarin has been suggested for people taking drugs that can potentially damage the liver.
Those drugs include anti-depressants, anti-anxiety meds and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
It has also been suggested for people that work with toxins such as toluene, a known carcinogen and liver toxicant.
In one study, researchers saw an improvement in liver function tests after four weeks.
The supplement was given daily and the effects of milk thistle were compared to those of a placebo.
Other possible benefits may be seen in people with type II diabetes or high cholesterol levels.
But, it is important not to rely too heavily on any single nutritional supplement.
So if you take a broad look at all of the latest research, you will see that people live the longest healthiest lives when they maintain healthy weights and have optimal nutritional intake.
While the effects of milk thistle may be numerous, it doesn't take the place of a healthy lifestyle.
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