Milk thistle is an invaluable herbal remedy thanks to its digestive, purifying and detoxifying properties. It’s especially helpful for the liver on those occasions when we may have overindulged with food and alcohol. We’ve all been there – getting up from the table after an evening of eating and drinking with that unpleasant feeling of heaviness. Not to mention the fact that stress – inevitable at such a busy time of year – also has a big impact on our digestive system.
Enter milk thistle: a natural aid to improve digestion. Silybum marianum is the scientific name for the medicinal plant whose seeds have long been used to treat liver disorders and aid digestion. The “marianum” part of its Latin name is inspired by legend: the white streaks on the leaves are said to be traces of milk that fell while Mary was breastfeeding Jesus. The name “milk thistle” also refers to the fact that the stems of the plant contain a viscous, white liquid.
What are the benefits of milk thistle?
The herbaceous plant, which grows throughout the Mediterranean Basin and in other similar climates, contains silymarin. Silymarin boasts a number of natural compounds called polyphenols, which have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties. They help to ensure regular liver function, to such a degree that milk thistle has been used to treat conditions like hepatitis, cirrhosis and steatosis (the accumulation of excess fat in organs, especially the liver) for centuries. It also helps the body to eliminate toxins and purify itself by stimulating the metabolism and the production of bile, which breaks down fats.
When to use it
The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has recognised the use of milk thistle seeds and its derivatives in traditional herbal medicinal products to alleviate the symptoms associated with digestive disorders, while also supporting liver function. In short, milk thistle has a detox function, which is great if your digestion is sluggish. It is also a perfect hangover remedy.
How to use it
The easiest way to benefit from milk thistle is to take a supplement in either capsule or tablet form, twice a day or as advised by your doctor. Alternatively, herbal teas – as loved by Margot Robbie – can be prepared at home by adding hot water to a teaspoon of the dried fruit and letting it brew for about 10 minutes. You can also get ready-made infusions that combine milk thistle with other purifying plants such as mint, fennel and liquorice. It’s a convenient remedy to have at home for those days when you need it.
And when not to take it
Milk thistle is, obviously, not recommended for anyone who is allergic to the plant and its components. It should also be avoided during pregnancy and lactation as there is insufficient data regarding the safety of use during these periods of time.