Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum)

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Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum)

 

The importance of milk thistle in cleansing your liver, may decrease

your chances of developing cirrhosis, chronic fatigue, PMS, and

cancer. The fruits, leaves, and seeds in any form, contain some of

the most potent liver protecting substances known. Protects the

kidneys and is good for adrenal disorders, bowel disorders, and

weakened immune systems.

 

Safety: Milk thistle is believed to possess very little toxicity.

Animal studies have not shown any negative effects even when high

doses were administered over a long period of time. A study of 2,637

participants reported in 1992 showed a low incidence of side effects,

limited mainly to mild gastrointestinal disturbance. However, on rare

occasions severe abdominal discomfort may occur. On the basis of its

extensive use as a food, milk thistle is believed to be safe for

pregnant or nursing women and researchers have enrolled pregnant

women in studies. However, safety in young children, pregnant or

nursing women, and individuals with severe renal disease has not been

formally established.

 

Dosage: The standard dosage of milk thistle is 200 mg 2 to 3 times a

day of an extract standardized to contain 70% silymarin. There is

some evidence that silymarin bound to phosphatidylcholine may be

better absorbed. This form should be taken at a dosage of 100 to 200

mg twice a day.

Warning: Considering the severe nature of liver disease, a doctor's

supervision is essential. Also, do not inject milk thistle

preparations that are designed for oral use!

 

Contraindications: No drug interactions are known. However, one

report has noted that silibinin (a constituent of silymarin) can

inhibit a bacterial enzyme called beta-glucuronidase, which plays a

role in the activity of certain drugs, such as oral contraceptives.

This could theoretically reduce their effectiveness. Medications that

could damage the liver: Milk thistle might be protective for some of

these drugs. Oral contraceptives: Milk thistle might reduce their

effectiveness.

 

 

 

Andrew Pacholyk, LMT, MT-BC, CA

Peacefulmind.com

Alternative medicine and therapies

for healing mind, body & spirit!