Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum)

Definition:
Milk thistle has a long history of use as an extraordinary liver rejuvenant. Ancient dioscorides used it to reverse the poisoning effect of a snakebite. Today, European doctors use intravenous applications of milk thistle for mushroom poisoning, which destroys liver tissue and causes death. It has an impressive track record as a liver tonic and protectant.

INDICATIONS:
It has the functions of protecting liver cell membrane and improving the liver function. Meanwhile, it has the function of detoxification, reducing the blood fat, benefiting the gallbladder, protecting the brain and removing the free radical of body and active constituent.

Applications:
Cirrhosis, hepatitis, diabetes, free radical protection, gallstones, chronic fatigue, jaundice, kidney congestion, liver damage, kidney disease, poisoning and psoriasis.

Scientific Updates:
In experiments, silymarin, the primary component of milk thistle, was given to test subjects before a deadly mushroom amanita toxin was ingested. It was 100 percent effective in preventing liver toxicity. Studies have shown that taking milk thistle has resulted in a pronounced reduction of cholesterol in the bile which helps to prevent gallbladder disease. Recent studies point to milk thistle as a possible therapy for psoriasis.

Complementary Agents:
Dandelion, bioflavonoids, grape seed or pine bark proanthocyanidins, turmeric, artichoke, schizandra, vitamin E, selenium, germanium, marine lipids, essential fatty acids and psyllium.