Like other medicinal plants, milk thistle has been used since ancient times.. This herbaceous plant serves to cure or complement the treatment of some ailments, especially those related to the liver.
The most important component of this plant is silymarinala, which acts directly on the liver. To consume and take advantage of the properties and benefits of milk thistle the best way to do it is through its extract, because silymarin in its pure state is not soluble in water.
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Milk thistle: 8 properties and benefits of this plant
There are many phytochemical substances in milk thistle.. In addition to silymarin, which is a flavonoid complex, betaines and tannins stand out. These are all substances that provide the properties and benefits of milk thistle.
The therapeutic properties of this plant are found in the extract of its fruits, for this reason its consumption is not recommended directly but properly processed. Below is everything you need to know to take advantage of the benefits of this plant for human health.
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1. Repairs and regenerates cells and tissues
The most important use of milk thistle is to repair and regenerate the liver.. Silymarin is the main compound of this plant, and it has been proven to be highly effective because it stimulates the functioning of cells and promotes the regeneration of liver tissue.
Thus, milk thistle is used to treat fatty liver, hepatitis (both chronic and acute), cirrhosis and different types of liver damage. Scientific interest is also focusing on its ability to fight cancer cells.
2. Prevents the formation of gallstones
Milk thistle helps prevent the formation of gallstones.The compounds of this medicinal plant also promote the proper functioning of the gallbladder. It is cholagogue, that is, among its properties is to facilitate the expulsion of bile.
Even when the gallbladder already has gallstones, milk thistle works as an aid to eliminate them. It is used to relieve gallbladder ailments. Ideally, it is consumed in capsules or tincture containing the extract of the fruit.
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3. Combats poisoning by mushrooms or poisonous plants
Milk thistle is used to treat the body in case of poisoning.. In case of accidental consumption of poisonous plants or mushrooms, the milk thistle plant can be very effective. What is used is the extract of this plant, which must also be prescribed by a doctor.
One of the best known uses is to treat poisoning by accidental ingestion of the well-known “death mushroom” (this mushroom is very similar to other edible mushrooms). It is also used as an auxiliary treatment in various emergency treatments.
4. Improves various stomach problems
Taking milk thistle helps to alleviate some stomach ailments. It is considered a digestive and appetite stimulant, so it is recommended in patients who feel weakness to eat. It is also a digestive stimulant due to its anti-inflammatory property, relieving abdominal heaviness.
In addition to this, milk thistle helps the digestive system to digest fats properly. This is one of the properties and benefits of milk thistle that indirectly also improves the condition of the liver, an organ related to digestive processes.
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5. It mitigates the symptoms of seasonal allergies.
Milk thistle helps to reduce the symptoms caused by seasonal allergies.. One of the properties and benefits of milk thistle is to help in the treatment of allergies along with other antihistamines. Its anti-allergenic effects benefit acute rhinitis.
It is common for the change of season to provoke allergic reactions. Among the most common discomforts is the appearance of rashes and skin rashes, and also increase the chances of getting a cold or flu. Thus, milk thistle can be consumed both as a preventive measure and when symptoms have already appeared.
6. Relieves discomfort associated with menopause
To reduce the typical discomforts of menopause, the consumption of milk thistle is very useful. Among its compounds are flavonoids, efficient to alleviate the symptoms that appear with the onset of menopause. It is recommended to consume it together with other plants such as white willow or yarrow.
If migraines, night sweats and hot flashes are related to menopause, it is recommended to consume milk thistle in capsules frequently. The plant should never be ingested directly through infusions, because its compounds are not soluble in water; the extract of the plant must be consumed to enjoy its properties and benefits.
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7. Reduces varicose veins and hemorrhoids
Consuming milk thistle can reduce varicose veins and hemorrhoids.. Another of the surprising properties of milk thistle is that of a venous stimulant. This particularity is useful to combat varicose veins and also hemorrhoids, which it achieves largely thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties.
It is also recommended to consume this plant if you suffer from numbness in feet, hands or fingers, as these are caused by problems with blood circulation in the body. Milk thistle as a venous stimulant helps to reestablish blood circulation and therefore helps with this discomfort.
8. It stops bleeding and relieves burns.
Milk thistle also helps to stop hemorrhages and soothe burns.. In this case it should be used topically, and in the market there are tinctures and ointments made from milk thistle extract.
In case of suffering a mild or moderate burn, a thin layer of milk thistle can be smeared on the affected area, as well as in case of nosebleeds. They are astringent medicines, which reduces bleeding. This allows less blood to be lost and accelerates healing.
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