Milk thistle is a plant that originated in Asia and Europe but was later introduced to North and South America. It has been used medicinally since the 4th century BC. Its therapeutic properties are mentioned in historical references from Ancient Greece, where there are writings from Pliny the Elder (23 to 79 AD), telling about the positive effects of the juice of this plant to “expel the bile.” The eclectic medical system (19th to 20th centuries) used milk thistle to treat varicose veins, liver congestion, menstrual difficulties, and kidney problems. It is a vegetable also known as milk thistle, Santa Maria thistle, white thistle, Our Lady’s thistle, spotted leaf litter, and holy thistle. This plant grows from 1.5 to 3 meters, has dark green leaves, large and thorny. If broken, milky sap is released. The purple-red flowers also have prickly edges. It has antiseptic, anticholesterolemic, anti-inflammatory, new, regenerative, antioxidant, digestive, tonic, hepatoprotective, depurative, diuretic, among others.

Silymarin

Silymarin is the main active component of milk thistle, responsible for the beneficial effects on the liver. Its main role is to repair the damaged cells due to the excess of toxic substances resulting from bad habits, such as alcohol or drugs. It also protects new cells from damage and reduces inflammation.

Making milk thistle tea

Place a teaspoon of dried fruit milk thistle in half a liter of water and heat. Let it cook for eight minutes, then remove and wait for it to warm. Strain the tea and drink, on average, two cups throughout the day. This liquid is very effective for liver fat loss. Milk thistle can also be found to be consumed through pills.

Benefits of the tea

It is highly suitable for people suffering from alcoholism, chronic diseases, hepatitis C, liver disease, and chronic liver disease. It’s also rich in antioxidants, which help prevent premature aging and free radicals. Athletes looking to improve their performance or who already take other supplements, such as energy or thermogenic, can use milk thistle to treat liver tension since these products make this gland overloaded. Its use is recommended in cycles and other supplements to ensure the health and proper functioning of the body.

Contraindications

The use of milk thistle is contraindicated for children, people who have kidney problems, ulcers, gastritis, or hypertension. The use of seeds can only be done through a doctor’s prescription. Overdose can lead to burns in the digestive tract, vomiting, and diarrhea. The leaves must be consumed with great care, as they can accumulate a lot of nitrates, which makes them toxic.