The world is full of natural ingredients that can help improve our health. One of these miracle herbs that has gained popularity in recent years is Milk Thistle. With its beneficial properties and traditional use, Milk Thistle has earned its place as one of the most remarkable herbs that can contribute to our health. Let’s explore more about this wonder herb.

Thistle, scientifically known as ”Silybum marianum”, is an herb that has been used for centuries for its healing properties. Originating from the Mediterranean, milk thistle has been much used by traditional medicine because of its natural ingredients.

Origin of the thistle

Milk thistle is a member of the Asteraceae family and is widespread in Mediterranean countries such as Greece, Italy, Turkey and Spain. The cultivation of milk thistle has expanded to other regions of the world due to its medicinal prop.

Uses and Benefits

Milk thistle has multiple uses and benefits for our health. One of its main benefits is its antioxidant activity, which helps protect our cells from free radicals and prevent aging. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help relieve inflammation and pain.

Milk thistle also has a positive effect on the digestive system, as it can help promote digestion and relieve problems such as constipation and abdominal discomfort. In addition, it can contribute to liver and gallbladder health, helping to detoxify the body.

Milk thistle has also been used to treat respiratory problems such as coughs and sore throats. Extracts of the herb can help relieve these symptoms and help boost the immune system.

 

 

Picture by: Nick Nice

 

Side effects and Precautions

Although Milk Thistle is considered safe to use, there are a few precautions to consider. If one suffers from allergies to other members of the Asteraceae family, such as yarrow or sunflower, one should avoid using Milk Thistle.

Also, in some cases, the use of Milk Thistle may cause diarrhea or skin irritation. If you experience any side effects, it is recommended to stop use and consult your doctor.

 

How to get the Thistle

Milk thistle is available in the market in various packages and treatments. You can find it in the form of dietary supplements (as capsules or in liquid form), as dried leaves or seeds of the plant for making herbal tea, and even as ‘’tea bag’’, ready to use.

Scientific Research

There are many scientific researches that have studied the healing properties of Milk Thistle. The studies have focused on the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects of the herb. However, more research is still needed to confirm these properties and to clarify the optimal dosage and method of use.

 

Traditional Recipes with Thistle in a Cup of Tea

Thistle has been used for centuries in Greek cuisine and traditional medicine. Let’s look at some traditional recipes using Milk Thistle:

Milk Thistle Tea: Add hot water (just before boiling) to dried Milk Thistle placed in a cup and steep for 10-15 minutes, keeping the cup covered. Drain and add honey if desired. You can use both the leaves and even better, the seeds of the plant. Drink the tea and enjoy the beneficial properties of Milk Thistle.

Thistle salad: Add fresh milk thistle leaves to a mixture of green leaves, tomatoes, cucumber and olive oil. Season with salt and add a little lemon to taste. This salad is refreshing and nutritious.

Thistle livers: In a saucepan, saute onion and garlic in olive oil. Add pieces of liver and fresh thistle leaves. Cook until the liver is mature and golden in color. Serve with fresh bread.

These are just a few of the traditional recipes you can try with milk thistle. It is important to follow the correct preparation methods and choose high quality herbal ingredients.

 

Conclusions

Milk thistle is a distinctive herb with many therapeutic properties. It can help protect our health, contribute to liver health, improve digestion, treat inflammation and boost the immune system. You can use it in a variety of ways by making tea or adding it to your food. In addition to the leaves, use the seeds as well.

Discover the beneficial properties of Milk Thistle and incorporate it into your daily routine. But remember to consult your doctor before starting any new treatment or addition to your health regimen.

For more information and supply of Milk Thistle, you can visit our website. Make the choice for a healthy life and discover the benefits of Milk Thistle today!

 

FAQs

Are there any side effects from using Milk Thistle?

In general, the use of Milk Thistle is considered safe. However, in rare cases, it may cause diarrhea or skin irritation. If you experience side effects, discontinue use and consult your doctor.

Who can use the thistle?

Milk Thistle is suitable for use by adults. However, people with known allergies to the Asteraceae family should avoid using it.

What are the usual dosages of Milk Thistle?

Dosages may vary depending on the form of Milk Thistle used and the purpose of use. If making a tea with seeds, add one teaspoon for 200ml of water.

Can Milk Thistle be used during pregnancy or lactation?

If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning to do any of these, it is recommended that you consult your doctor before using Milk Thistle. Although no adverse effects have been reported, it is always best to be sure of the safety of use during these periods.

Where can I find Thistle?

Thistle can be found in health stores, natural product pharmacies or OnLine health stores. Make sure you buy high quality products from reliable suppliers.

How often can I use Thistle?

The frequency of use of Milk Thistle can vary depending on individual needs and the purpose of use. In the case of herbal tea (as described above) you can drink up to 3 cups per day. After continuous consumption for three weeks, take a one-week break before starting again.

Can Milk Thistle interact with medicines?

If you are taking medication or have a medical condition, it is important to consult your doctor before using Milk Thistle. Certain medications may interact with the herb and affect their effectiveness.

 

Discover all our medicinal herbs here.