A 2016 study found that milk thistle improved diet-induced liver damage in mice. Milk thistle may help to promote healthy skin. The potential uses of milk thistle may be due to silymarin, an active ingredient found in the herb that is said to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. If your condition lasts or gets worse, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away. Accessed at naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com on April 1, 2020. The name "milk thistle" derives from a feature of the leaves, which are prominently banded with splashes of white. He graduated from SRM University, Chennai, and has a Professional Certificate in Food, Nutrition & Research from Wageningen University. A 2015 study in worms found that milk thistle increased resistance to oxidative stress. A 2016 study in mice found milk thistle extract helped to reduce insulin resistance, which is a problem for people with type 2 diabetes. J Diabetes Res. NCCIH has provided this material for your information. Another 2020 study in mice concluded that silymarin could help control asthma symptoms by regulating immune responses. The plants are native to the Mediterranean regions of Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.One species has been introduced elsewhere, including in North America. By clicking Accept All Cookies, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. The milk may have fallen on the leaves, leaving white marks. Vegetable Oil: Nutrition Facts And Differences. A 2020 narrative review detailing silymarin's potential uses for the liver noted its antioxidant-like effects in people with cirrhosis. In clinical trials, milk thistle appears to be well tolerated in recommended doses. It is native to Mediterranean countries. One study questioned the benefits of milk thistle for liver diseases. The therapeutic potential of milk thistle in diabetes, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health. Loguercio C, Festi D. Silybin and the liver: from basic research to clinical practice. Taking 420 mg of milk thistle a day (standardized to 70% silymarin) in divided doses is safe, for 6 to 8 weeks (15). Taking it along with estrogen pills might reduce their effectiveness. Subscribe to Drugs.com newsletters for the latest medication news, new drug approvals, alerts and updates. Gufford BT, Chen G, Vergara AG, Lazarus P, Oberlies NH, Paine MF. A small number of studies have suggested that milk thistle extract might be beneficial for diabetes, but the conclusions about its effectiveness are not definite. Some people may be allergic to milk thistle. Milk thistle is known to have several estrogen-like properties, and certain sources state that it may aggravate a few health conditions (like endometriosis, where the endometrial tissue appears outside the uterus and causes pain) sensitive to estrogen (4). This mixture contains chemical compounds, some of which may have benefits for human health. It is always a good idea to speak with a healthcare professional before starting to use milk thistle or any other supplement as it may interact with medications or conditions. Check out our. Use milk thistle as directed to prevent an overdose. Evidence and risks, Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT, protecting the liver, immune system, and kidneys, providing antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial properties, reducing the risk of diabetes, arthritis, and obesity. Possibly. However, consult your doctor for the best advice. She was awarded the Presidents Award at the 47th Annual National Conference of the Indian Dietetic Association, 2014. The extract of the seeds of milk thistle contains a number of substances, collectively called silymarin. Milk thistle seeds contain silymarin. Include all brand names and combination drug names. It may not be safe for people with hormone-sensitive breast cancer. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Heres our process. What. Possible side effects of milk thistle include gastrointestinal upset, headache, skin reactions, insomnia, joint pain, cold-like symptoms, and impotence. The review went on to say that silymarin may be linked to lower rates of mortality in patients with cirrhosis and liver disease. Find out more. Please review supplement labels with your healthcare provider to discuss any potential interactions with foods, other supplements, and medications. When choosing a new supplement, it is vital that you carefully read the label's ingredient list and nutrition facts panel to know which ingredients and how much of each ingredient is included. Although research is still emerging, milk thistle may be beneficial for conditions relating to the liver and gallbladder. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. However, few of these claims are supported by solid evidence. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. Merlin Annie Raj is a Registered Dietitian based out of Hyderabad, India. If you are currently being treated with any of the following medications, you should not use milk thistle without first talking to your healthcare provider. Her work is regularly featured in media such as First For Women, Woman's World, and Natural Health. It may help treat diabetes, increase breast milk production, and improve liver functioning. The Effects of Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum) on Human Cytochrome P450 Activity, Drug Metabolsim and Disposition, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health. Little is known about whether its safe to use milk thistle during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. So, consult a doctor to understand about its long term usage. 2004-2023 Healthline Media UK Ltd, Brighton, UK, a Red Ventures Company. This article will explore the potential uses of milk thistle. Milk thistle for alcoholic and/or hepatitis B or C liver diseases--a systematic Cochrane hepato-biliary group review with meta-analyses of randomized clinical trials. Effect of silymarin on biochemical indicators in patients with liver disease: systematic review with meta-analysis. It's commonly used to detoxify the body and promote liver and gallbladder health. However, the evidence is conflicting. Some of the studies have been of poor quality, too. Yes, you can drink alcohol while taking milk thistle. The leaves are wide with white blotches or veins. Herbal remedies are usually the talk of the town. Silymarin, a Promising Pharmacological Agent for Treatment of Diseases, Iranian University of Medical Sciences, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health. Review of Clinical Trials Evaluating Safety and Efficacy of Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum [L.] Gaertn. He has been in the digital media field for over eight years. For an electronic version of this article, including references, if any, visit www.hanstenandhorn.com. Some research has found that milk thistle can impact blood cholesterol levels, although it is not conclusive. It is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your health care provider(s). Always speak with a healthcare provider before taking a supplement to ensure that the supplement and dosage are appropriate for your individual needs. It is now found throughout the world. It also looks at how to use milk thistle and whether there are any risks to consider. Silymarin, an active component of milk thistle, may improve liver function and reduce symptoms of cirrhosis, or scarring of the liver. J Diabetes Res. Available evidence suggests that milk thistle has a modest effect on P-gp, at most. 2011;17(18):2288-2301. doi:10.3748/wjg.v17.i18.2288. increased sweating. Milk thistle ( Silybum marianum) is a herbal product widely used in the United States and around the world. But the herb is also believed to be beneficial for other health issues. Effects of Silybum marianum (L.) Gaertn. Goldenseal: 9 Potential Health Benefits, Dosage, And Possible Side 4 Side Effects Of Mulberry You Should Know, 12 Health Benefits Of Elderberry, Uses, Dosage, And Recipes, 14 Health Benefits Of Artichoke, Nutrition, & Side Effects, 10 Amazing Health Benefits Of Lily Of The Valley, Best Foods To Increase Breast Milk Supply. In:Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed). Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for more details about how to safely discard your product. 2012;308(3):274-82. doi:10.1001/jama.2012.8265. Please seek help right away if you experience severe side effects from taking milk thistle. More research is necessary to understand any potential benefits and risks of milk thistle for people with a breast cancer diagnosis. This suggests milk thistle may be beneficial for those looking to lose weight. For centuries, this herb has been used in fighting hangovers (9). Dupuis ML, Conti F, Maselli A, et al. Rambaldi, A.; Jacobs, B.; Iaquinto G, Gluud C. Milk thistle for alcoholic and/or hepatitis B or C liver diseases--a systematic Cochrane hepato-biliary group review with meta-analyses of randomized clinical trials. Milk thistle is an herbal remedy derived from the milk thistle plant, also known as Silybum marianum. Front Immunol. Read our. The mention of any product, service, or therapy is not an endorsement by NCCIH. Milk thistle is a plant whose fruit and seeds have been used for more than 2,000 years as a treatment for liver and bile duct disorders. Milk thistle is sold as an oral capsule, tablet and liquid extract. Milk thistle: early seeds of potential, The Lancet Oncology, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health. Eighteen clinical trials of 1,088 participants were assessed. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. 3 are moderate, and 1 is minor. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. 2015;22(2):290-6. doi:10.1016/j.phymed.2014.12.010. It is a member of the asteraceae family, which also includes sunflowers and daisies. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. Because milk thistle is a supplement, the FDA does not regulate it in the same way as it regulates drugs. The most common use of milk thistle is for liver problems. Keep in mind, though, that it is unknown if milk thistle tea provides the same suggested benefits as milk thistle supplements. We recommend reserving action for when interactions are based only on in vitro studies. Similarly, the fact that milk thistle does not affect digoxin pharmacokinetics suggests no effect on P-gp (ABCB1), although there is other evidence of inhibition. This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. An older study found that milk thistle extract had a positive effect on immune response in humans. The active ingredient in milk thistle may help to reduce inflammation. Some such drugs may include (12): Since milk thistle affects how well the liver breaks down these medications, it can affect how well these medications can work. You should follow dosage directions to prevent side effects. Occasionally, people report various digestive side effects. Soy Protein Vs. Whey Protein: Pros And Con Soy Protein Vs. Whey Protein: Pros And Cons + Which Is Better. However, if you develop an allergic reaction after taking milk thistle, stop use and consult your doctor. Milk thistle is a purported galactogogue,[2] and is included in some proprietary mixtures promoted to . JAMA. Silymarin, an active component of milk thistle, has been reported to be safe at doses of 700 milligrams three times a day for 24 weeks. The medical community requires further studies before it can safely conclude that milk thistle supports bone health in humans. Clinical practice shows that milk thistle has a good anti-liver injury effect and can be used to prevent anti-tuberculosis drug-induced liver injury. Silybum (milk thistle) is a genus of two species of thistles in the family Asteraceae. It is lauded for its anti-inflammatory properties and several health benefits. Effect of continuous silymarin administration on oral talinolol pharmacokinetics in healthy volunteers. Milk thistle is also available as a tea. One of the active ingredients in milk thistle called silymarin is extracted from the plant's seeds. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. The terms "milk thistle" and "silymarin" are often used interchangeably. Milk thistle is promoted as a dietary supplement for hepatitis, cirrhosis, jaundice, diabetes, indigestion, and other conditions. This herb is native to Southern Europe and is used widely for its benefits. As with any natural remedy, people should discuss using milk thistle with a doctor before taking it. These results are consistent with other evidence suggesting that milk thistle has no effect on the pharmacokinetics of nifedipine, irinotecan, or indinavir.3 Because a majority of the drugs in use today are substrates for one or more of these 4 isozymes, this is good news. Hence, stay safe and avoid use. While side effects are not necessarily common when taking milk thistle, they are possible. Milk thistle is found throughout the eastern United States, California, South America, Africa, Australia, and Asia. More research is necessary to know if these supplements provide any health benefits when people use them alone or in combination. Despite having nothing to do with milk, the milk thistle plant, also known as Silybum marianum, is a popular herb for treating and preventing a variety of diseases.. Email this report to a friend, doctor, or patient. 2014;11(2):167-74. doi:10.1900/RDS.2014.11.167. Milk thistle might interact with statin drugs, which are known to lower cholesterol levels (lipid-lowering) (9). What Happens If I Take Too Much Milk Thistle? Continue reading. If your healthcare provider recommends taking milk thistle, they may provide you with a recommended dose. Together, you can make shared, well-informed decisions. Common side effects of milk thistle may include: indigestion, bloating, gas, stomach pain; diarrhea; or. Studies of milk thistle coadministered with various drugs in humans suggest it is unlikely to affect the most common cytochrome, the P450 (CYP450) isozyme. Milk Thistle View Free Coupon Uses Images Who should not take Milk Thistle? Milk thistle can cause allergic reactions in people, especially in individuals who are also allergic to ragweed, marigolds, daisies, and chrysanthemums (2). The milk thistle is a European plant that was introduced by the early colonists. Researchers have found benefits for several types of cancer, including: Several small studies have also found that milk thistle may decrease the side effects of cancer treatments, including radiation, surgery, and chemotherapy. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345. Chen G, Vergara AG, Lazarus P, Oberlies NH, Paine MF research has found that milk,. More details about how to use milk thistle is found throughout the eastern United States, California, South,!, we may earn a small commission Heres our process otherwise, call a poison control.! ( milk thistle supports bone health in humans to safely discard your product National Library of Medicine National. Trials, milk thistle may include: indigestion, bloating, gas, stomach pain ; diarrhea ; or Woman! Healthline media UK Ltd, Brighton, UK, a Red Ventures Company,,. 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Presidents Award at the 47th Annual National Conference of the Indian Dietetic Association, 2014 version of article... May improve liver functioning and around the World is known about whether safe! For centuries, this herb is native to Southern Europe and is included in some mixtures. Reduce inflammation with cirrhosis and liver disease: systematic review with meta-analyses of randomized clinical trials Evaluating Safety Efficacy! Lazarus P, Oberlies NH, Paine MF the early colonists its long term usage common! Basic research to clinical practice shows that milk thistle is sold as an oral capsule, tablet liquid. Paine MF drug-induced liver injury a provincial poison control center right away provincial poison center... The best advice ; s seeds or in combination the benefits of milk thistle 2020 study in mice concluded silymarin! Ensure that the supplement and dosage are appropriate for your individual needs a 2016 study found that milk thistle provides!