Silybum marianum
Part Used: Dried mature pericarp (seed coat)
Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum) is a biennial herb growing up to 1.2m. It is native to the Mediterranean and grows wild throughout Europe and North America. Milk Thistle seeds contain a bioflavonoid complex known as Silymarin. This constituent is responsible for the medical benefits of the plant. More than 300 studies conducted since the late 1960s provide an experimental basis for the effectiveness and safety of Silymarin, the main chemical complex of Milk Thistle seeds, in the treatment of liver disease. Standardized Milk Thistle seed preparations have been shown to alter the cell structure of the outer liver membrane which prevents toxic chemicals from entering and stimulates the liver's own capacity to generate new cells. Silymarin also scavenges harmful oxygen radicals in the liver, further protecting it. Milk Thistle has been used medicinally for over 2,000 years, most commonly for the treatment of liver and gallbladder disorders. Silymarin can be extracted from the seeds of Milk Thistle, and is believed to be the biologically active component. The terms "milk thistle" and "silymarin" are often used interchangeably.
Milk Thistle products are popular in Europe and the United States for various types of liver disease. Treatment claims also include lowering cholesterol levels; reducing insulin resistance in people with type II diabetes who also have cirrhosis; and reducing the growth of cancer cells in breast, cervical, and prostate cancers. Milk Thistle nutritionally supports the liver's ability to maintain normal liver function. It has shown positive effects in treating nearly every known form of liver disease, including cirrhosis, hepatitis, necroses, and liver damage due to drug and alcohol abuse. Milk Thistle works due to its ability to inhibit the factors responsible for liver damage, coupled with the fact it stimulates production of new liver cells to replace old damaged ones. Milk Thistle has been proven to protect the liver from damage. The detrimental effects of environmental toxins, alcohol, drugs and chemotherapy may be countered with this valuable herb. German health authorities allow Milk Thistle preparations to be used in supportive treatment of chronic inflammatory liver disorders such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, and fatty infiltration caused by alcohol or other toxins. In addition to its well-documented curative action, Silymarin can help prevent liver damage if it is taken before exposure to toxins.
References:
All Natural. http://www.allnatural.net/herbpages/milk-thistle.shtml
Medline Plus. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/patient-milkthistle.html
Herbal Information Center. http://www.kcweb.com/herb/milkt.htm
