Research presented at the Annual Liver Study Congress in Asia has shown that it is possible to restore the organ to health through a special diet as well as treatment. Milk thistle plant can be used for treatment, check it out.

Benefits for the liver

Milk thistle, scientific name Silybum Marianum , is a very old medicinal plant, used for at least 2,000 years to treat various diseases, including liver problems.

Coming from the Mediterranean and Southwestern Europe, the plant has the first traces of use for medicinal purposes dating back to the 1st century AD, when it was already indicated, together with bee honey, for the treatment of liver problems.

Rich in antioxidants and silymarin, the plant helps to strengthen the organ, even for those people who have problems with alcohol, or even patients who have suffered from hepatitis.

Its action also promotes the stabilization of the organ’s cell membranes, promoting and accelerated regeneration of damaged tissues. The plant, however, does not only act on the liver, but also on the kidneys, pancreas and brain, being used by more and more patients, including those who used very strong antibiotics for a long time.

Consumption is also indicated for those who suffer from cirrhosis, hepatitis C, cancer, problems with blood glucose levels, high cholesterol, dyspepsia, among others.

Side effects

When not consumed in the indicated doses, the plant can cause side effects, such as indigestion, headache, stomach acidity, gas, diarrhea, joint pain and itching.

Contraindications

The plant is contraindicated for patients who are allergic to daisies, artichokes or kiwi fruit, pregnant or lactating women, patients with diabetes or hypoglycemia – since it reduces blood sugar levels -, and women who use oral contraceptives, as the plant can reduce the effectiveness of the drug.

food

There are still some foods that help to regenerate the liver, especially after excessive intake of alcohol or carbohydrates and fats. According to nutritionists, some foods, acting together, have the power to clean the liver, especially dark vegetables, such as kale, broccoli and watercress. Lean meats are rich in leucine, and lentils, white beans and chickpeas are rich in cysteines, which are amino acids that work to strengthen the enzymes responsible for cleaning the body and helping to regenerate the liver.

Tea to regenerate the liver

To prepare the tea, you will need:

– 1 teaspoon of crushed milk thistle fruits

– 1 cup of water

Bring the water to the fire and, when it starts to boil, turn it off. In a cup, place the crushed fruit and then pour the boiling water over the top. Cover and let the mixture sit for approximately 15 minutes, then strain and consume. The recommended dose is between 3 and 4 cups a day.