Herb milk thistle medicinal properties and contraindications. Milk thistle: contraindications and side effects of a "harmless" herb

The beneficial properties of milk thistle or thistle have been known since ancient times. And now this weed is widely used to treat many diseases, including:

In addition, it helps to reduce cholesterol in the body and prevents the development of cancer cells. Moreover, the plant has the same therapeutic effect, regardless of the form of its use - oil, infusion or meal. But, speaking of great benefits, not everyone knows if milk thistle has contraindications and side effects. And this topic deserves a lot of attention. Let's talk about this in more detail.

Like almost any drug, milk thistle has contraindications, so for some diseases and conditions it should be used with great caution. For example, it is not recommended for people suffering from bronchial asthma, as it can become cause of dyspnoea. With bile and urolithiasis, thistle, which has a good choleretic effect, can cause pain attacks when the stones are displaced. This herb also reduces iron stores in the human body, so it is contraindicated in anemia. And for people with cardiovascular diseases, it should not be consumed due to the increased content of phosphorus and potassium. In addition, contraindications for the use of milk thistle are: depression, mental illness, epilepsy, exacerbation of cholecystitis, hepatic and renal colic, pancreatitis, appendicitis, diarrhea, reflex disease. The weed can cause great harm to pregnant women, nursing mothers and children under the age of 12 years. Sometimes people have an individual intolerance to milk thistle or an allergy to plants from the Asteraceae family, which manifests itself in the form of abdominal pain, skin rashes, diarrhea or constipation. Also, thistle should not be combined with drugs such as St. If taken simultaneously with oral contraceptives, their effectiveness will be significantly reduced. In addition, many people do not know that milk thistle should not be consumed for more than 41 months, as it can be addictive.

Separately, it is worth considering the side effects of milk thistle. Studies have shown that with excessive use of the plant, headaches appear, and in some cases very severe. Many people complain of frequent joint pain that interferes with daily activities. Often after eating this weed, insomnia and general weakness appear. You can also observe a rash on the skin, itching, breathing problems, swelling of the lips and mouth, loss of appetite, etc. And with prolonged use of thistle, bloating, flatulence, diarrhea, or nausea very often occurs.

Generally side effects from taking milk thistle are quite rare, but it is better to take the necessary precautions and seek the advice of a specialist before using it. The doctor will prescribe the necessary dosage of the drug, taking into account all side effects and contraindications, as well as your physique and individual characteristics of the body. If at the same time as using milk thistle you notice a deterioration in your health, then you need to stop using it and choose another remedy that has no contraindications.

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The site provides background information for informational purposes only. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases should be carried out under the supervision of a specialist. All drugs have contraindications. Expert advice is required!

Medicinal properties milk thistle (that's what people call it milk thistle) were discovered in ancient times. And all thanks to the unique composition of this plant, which contains about 400 active substances that have the widest range of effects on various organs and systems of the human body. About the composition and properties of milk thistle, about the action of this plant, methods of use and advantages over traditional medicines and we will talk in more detail in this article.

Description of the milk thistle plant

Milk thistle, belonging to the Asteraceae family, is one of the most beautiful and largest types of thistles. The plant is used primarily in the treatment of the liver, stomach and intestines. This plant has proven itself excellently in the fight against skin and gynecological diseases, cardiovascular pathologies, diseases of the ENT organs.

What does it look like?

In height, this one- or two-year-old plant reaches 60 - 150 cm (with proper cultivation, the height of milk thistle can exceed two meters).

The upright branched stem of the plant is dressed in dark green or light green leaves, dotted with silver-pearl spots. In addition, milk thistle leaves have long, yellow spines along the edges.

The inflorescences of the plant are collected in lilac baskets, the diameter of which is 5–6 cm. The milk thistle fruit is a gray, light brown or black achene. The leaves that surround the basket are also equipped with a sharp spine. Each achene has a tuft of hairs, which are two to three times the length of the achene itself. The seeds are odorless, but have a bitter taste.

Where does it grow?

Milk thistle grows in Central and Southern Europe, as well as in Central Asia. But in Russia, this plant is common in the southern regions of the European part of the country, as well as in the southern part Western Siberia. Mostly milk thistle can be found in wastelands, abandoned lands and along roads.

Collection and storage

Medicinal properties have both underground and aboveground parts of the plant, but still the main value of milk thistle is, first of all, seeds.

When to harvest milk thistle?

The collection of milk thistle seeds is carried out from August to October (the seeds of the plant ripen unevenly), namely, during the period when "parachutes" with seeds begin to fly and the baskets turn yellow. The main signal of seed ripening is the formation of a white fluff in the baskets themselves. Baskets with seeds are cut with secateurs.

The roots of the plant are dug up in autumn (after the seeds ripen) and washed under running water, preparing for drying. At the same time, milk thistle leaves are harvested.

Drying milk thistle

Cut baskets are laid in a thin layer on a sieve, under which paper or fabric is preliminarily spread. It is important that the room in which the baskets will be dried is ventilated, but strong drafts should be avoided (otherwise the "parachutes" with the seeds will scatter).

After drying with scissors, it is necessary to cut the thorns from the baskets, then break them and shake out the seeds. To dry, the seeds are laid out in a thin layer on paper. In addition, you can collect milk thistle baskets in a bag and thresh it well with a stick. Seeds are stored in a well-ventilated area in cloth bags.

The roots, like the leaves, are crushed and dried either indoors or in a drying cabinet, the temperature in which should be about 40 - 50 degrees. The roots and leaves of milk thistle are stored in closed glass containers.

The shelf life of seeds is three years, roots and leaves - a year.

Composition of milk thistle

As mentioned above, milk thistle contains a huge amount of biologically active substances. Let us describe the effect on the body of the main ones.

Silymarin
This substance, rarely found in nature, protects and heals the membrane, which is the shell of the cells of our body.

The action of silymarin:

• strengthening of cell membranes;
• promoting the formation of new cells;
• stimulation of protein synthesis;
• increased production of bile;
• neutralization of the action of toxic substances.

Thus, silymarin is an excellent prophylactic and therapeutic agent that helps to prevent or cure diseases of the liver, as well as the gallbladder.

Fixed oils
Action:

• promoting the regeneration of tissues, as well as cells of the body;
• removal of inflammation;
• normalization of metabolic processes;
• promoting the process of wound healing;
• protection against the adverse effects of carcinogens.

Essential oil
Essential oil action:

• normalizes the functioning of the central nervous system;
• several times enhances the secretion of glands;
• regulates (namely enhances) the motility of the gastrointestinal tract.

resins
Action:

• disinfect wounds;
• neutralize pathogenic microbes and bacteria;
• increase the body's defenses.

Slime
Action:

• eliminate foci of inflammation;
• accelerate wound healing;
• help to expel mucus.

Lignans
Action:

• remove toxins, thereby preventing the development of cancer;
• reduce the concentration of cholesterol, which prevents the formation of sclerotic plaques;
• normalize hormonal balance;
• accelerate metabolic processes;
• improve oxygen metabolism;
• regulate the work nervous system.

Flavonoids
Action:

• strengthen capillaries;
• neutralize free radicals;
• normalize blood pressure;
• regulate the functioning of the central nervous system;
• stimulate the work of the adrenal cortex;
• relieve inflammation;
• normalize heart rhythm.

Saponins
Action:

• increased secretion of bronchial glands;
• promoting the process of synthesis of corticosteroids;
• regulation of water and salt exchanges;
• activation of hormone functions;
• removal of inflammation.

organic acids
Action:

• increased appetite;
• activation of all metabolic processes, which leads to the normalization of the breakdown of fats;
• strengthening immunity;
• elimination of toxins;
• regulation of the digestive process.

Protein
Action:

• providing the body with hormones, antibodies and other vital enzymes;
• normalization of hormonal balance;
• transportation of hemoglobin;
• strengthening immunity.

alkaloids
Action of alkaloids:

• normalize blood circulation;
• neutralize the pain syndrome;
• excite the central nervous system when taking small doses and depress when taking an increased dose.

B vitamins
Action:

• provide energy to the muscles, nervous system, brain;
• relieve mental and physical fatigue;
• strengthen immunity;
• synthesize hemoglobin;
• promote the production of sex hormones;
• improve the condition of the skin, hair, nails.

Vitamin C
Action:

• neutralizes the destructive effects of free radicals that break down enzymatic reactions, which causes serious harm to the body;
• reduces the content of uric acid directly in the blood;
• regulates redox processes of cellular respiration;
• enhance the growth and development of bone tissue;
• increase capillary permeability;
• strengthen immunity.

Vitamin K
Action:

• provides a full-fledged metabolism in both bone and connective tissues;
• promotes the absorption of calcium and its normal interaction with vitamin D;
• prevents the development of age-related inflammation, since it reduces the content of special substances in the body that are perceived by the immune system as a signal to aging;
• prevents possible bleeding during childbirth;
• neutralizes toxins that have a detrimental effect on the liver and provoke the development of serious diseases, one of which is cancer.

Milk thistle contains many useful micro and macro elements, including potassium, boron, iodine, calcium, magnesium, chromium, manganese, zinc, iron and copper, vitamins A, D and F. Vitamin E and selenium deserve special attention when considering the composition of milk thistle.

Milk thistle and vitamin E

Vitamin E is rightfully considered the main antioxidant among all vitamins. It is vitamin E that takes an active part in the process of neutralizing free radicals that disrupt many enzymatic reactions.

Vitamin E is indicated for men and women with dysfunction of the gonads, as it normalizes the functioning of the reproductive system as a whole.

The action of selenium:

• increased perception of light by the retina;
• prevention of the development of liver diseases;
• neutralization (or paralysis) of aflatoxins, which protects cells from the negative carcinogenic effects of these poisons;
• elimination of hot flashes during menopause, as well as maintaining the safety of sperm, since selenium has been linked to sex hormones;
• normalization of the thyroid gland;
• removal of radionuclides, as well as mercury from the body;
• providing a direct toxic effect on tumor cells;
• acceleration of wound healing.

It is impossible not to say about the close relationship of selenium with vitamin E. The fact is that these elements interact exclusively together, and if additional intake of one of them is necessary, the proportional use of the other should be additionally introduced. However, vitamin E deficiency can limit the body's use of selenium.

Small amounts of selenium have an anti-dystrophic and anti-allergic effect by suppressing histamine.

properties of milk thistle

Milk thistle preparations have the following range of properties:

• anti-inflammatory;
• epithelizing;
• wound healing;
• antiulcer;
• antioxidant;
• hepatoprotective;
• choleretic;
• immunomodulatory;
• antitumor;
• restorative;
• anti-sclerotic;
• detoxification;
• lactogenic;
• laxative;
• antiallergic;
• diuretic.

Milk thistle - hepatoprotector

Milk thistle is one of the most effective hepatoprotectors, which has the following effects on the body:

• stabilizes biomembranes of hepatocytes;
• increases the activity of detoxification and antioxidant systems of the liver;
• enhances the synthesis of glutathione - a unique substance called the "mother of antioxidants";
• stimulates protein synthesis;
• stimulates regenerative processes, which accelerates the recovery of damaged liver cells.

In addition, milk thistle protects still intact hepatocytes, thereby increasing their resistance to infections and poisoning. And all thanks to silymarin, which prevents the ingress of toxic substances directly into the liver cells. This substance decomposes poisons before they begin to adversely affect the body.

Milk thistle - choleretic agent

Milk thistle not only significantly enhances the formation of bile, but also accelerates its excretion, which helps to normalize digestive processes, as well as metabolism.

It is the liver that is responsible for the production of bile, which ensures the breakdown of fats.

Thus, when the body is not able to carry out detoxification, it negatively affects its functioning:

• general health worsens;
• mood "falls";
• sleep is disturbed;
• headaches appear;
• the skin loses its healthy appearance;
• there is a tendency to colds;
• blood circulation is disturbed.

It is milk thistle that most effectively fights against the listed violations, ensuring the excretion of bile.

Milk thistle and cholesterol

Excess cholesterol, being deposited on the walls of blood vessels, creates atherosclerotic plaques, as a result of which the lumen of the vessels narrows and blood flow becomes more difficult. And this, in turn, can limit the supply of oxygen to the brain and heart, leading to the development of various cardiovascular diseases, including heart attack and stroke.

Milk thistle lowers cholesterol levels by removing it from the body. To do this, it is enough to take tincture from the seeds of this plant three times a day for a month. To prepare the product, 50 g of raw materials are placed in a dark container and 500 ml of vodka are poured. Then the product is closed and infused for two weeks. A tincture of 25 drops is taken half an hour before eating. The course of treatment is repeated twice a year, and in between courses you can drink milk thistle tea.

The benefits and harms of milk thistle

It is simply impossible to overestimate the benefits of milk thistle, since this plant has found application in almost all areas of medicine.

Hepatology

Milk thistle is used to treat many liver diseases, including:

• cirrhosis of the liver, provoked by alcohol, toxins or radiation.

Toxicology

It is used for chronic poisoning with alcohol, drugs, drugs, food, accompanied by intoxication. In addition, milk thistle is indicated for pregnant women with toxicosis and people living in ecologically unfavorable areas.

Few people know that milk thistle is a unique remedy that ensures survival in case of poisoning with a pale toadstool.

Cardiology

In cardiology, the plant is used as a prophylactic that strengthens the cardiovascular system in general, and capillaries in particular.

Oncology

Milk thistle preparations are recommended after chemotherapy or radiation therapy, as they effectively cleanse the blood and the entire body of toxins, heavy metals, radiation and radionuclides.

Endocrinology

Milk thistle, by normalizing lipid metabolism, removing toxins and toxins, contributes to the loss of extra pounds, therefore it is used for obesity. This plant lowers blood sugar levels, so it is used in the treatment of diabetes.

Dermatology

The plant contains vitamin E, which has pronounced anti-inflammatory and restorative properties, so it is not surprising that milk thistle preparations are widely used in the treatment of skin diseases such as psoriasis, acne, vitiligo, and baldness.

Cosmetology

In cosmetology, milk thistle oil is mainly used as one of the main ingredients of anti-aging, cleansing, wound healing and tonic creams, balms and ointments.

If we talk about the dangers of the plant, then with the correct dosage and following the doctor's recommendations, milk thistle preparations are absolutely harmless. Moreover, they are more effective and safer than drugs recognized by official medicine.

Action of milk thistle

• Improving the motor and secretory functions of the gastrointestinal tract.
• Increase the protective properties of the body to the action of poisoning and infections.
• Suppression of the production of histamines, which provoke headaches and allergic reactions.
• Normalization of liver functions.
• Promoting the metabolism of hormones (especially hormones of the estrogen group).
• Improving the process of digestion by increasing the production of bile.
• Ensuring complete digestion of fats.
• Excellent absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
• Strengthening the detoxification function of the liver.
• Promoting the regeneration of liver tissue.
• Normalization of cholesterol.
• Improving the condition of the skin.
• Promoting the healing of ulcers.
• Contribute to the process of losing weight.

Milk thistle treatment

What does milk thistle treat?

Milk thistle preparations are used in the treatment of such diseases:

• dermatoses;
• allergic skin diseases;
• baldness;
• vitiligo;
• psoriasis;
• lichen planus;
• acne vulgaris;
• diabetes;
• hepatitis;
• cirrhosis of the liver;
• colitis;
• thrombocytopathy;
• radiculitis;
• arthritis;
• myopathy;
• convulsions;
• urinary retention;
• inflammation of the bile ducts;
• haemorrhoids;
• poisoning;
• gynecological diseases;
• diseases of the thyroid gland and spleen;
• salt deposits;
• open fractures;
• posthepatitis syndrome;
• toothache;
• heart disease (with caution and on the recommendation of a doctor);
• fatty degeneration of the liver;
• toxicosis;
• hyperkeratosis;

How to use?

Milk thistle is taken in the form of a decoction, infusion, powder, tea, tincture, syrup, tablets. Also, milk thistle can be part of other drugs.

Seeds are consumed in ground form, in the amount of 20 g per day (powder is taken half an hour before meals, washed down with water). The daily dose is evenly distributed throughout the day.

Can be brewed daily allowance powder in the evening (the powder is poured into a thermos and poured with boiling water). Such an infusion is drunk the next day.

If milk thistle is a part of medicinal preparations, then it is necessary to follow the recommendations of the doctor or read the annotation provided by the manufacturer of the medicine.

How to brew milk thistle?

To brew milk thistle, 2 tbsp. crushed raw materials (these can be plant roots or seeds), pour 500 ml of boiling water, after which the product is placed in a water bath for 20 minutes. Strained, squeezed and brought to the original volume with boiled water, the infusion is taken in half a glass three times a day.

Important! Milk thistle preparations are consumed half an hour before a meal, or one hour after.

The course of treatment with milk thistle preparations

The duration of the course of treatment with milk thistle is from one to one and a half months (it all depends on the type of disease, its severity and the patient's well-being). If necessary, you can repeat the course of treatment.

The use of the medicinal herb milk thistle

Seeds (fruits)

Preparations from the fruits of milk thistle are used for diseases of the liver, kidneys, thyroid gland and spleen, for alcoholic and food poisoning. In addition, the seeds of the plant are an excellent prophylactic indicated for use by residents of environmentally unfavorable regions. It is recommended to use seeds for people involved in hazardous industries, and athletes with high physical exertion.

Leaves

The leaves of the plant are used as a mild laxative, diuretic, choleretic and diaphoretic.

Root

Preparations from the roots of milk thistle are mainly used in the treatment of the following diseases:

• catarrh of the stomach;
• convulsions;
• toothache;
• urinary retention.

Ways to use milk thistle

Infusion

This form of milk thistle preparations is indicated for restoring liver function, removing bile, and eliminating pain in joint diseases.

2 tbsp Place milk thistle seed powder in a thermos and pour 500 ml of boiling water, then leave the remedy for 12 hours, strain, squeeze thoroughly and drink 130 ml four times a day.

Tincture

Milk thistle tincture is widely used in dermatology for the treatment of skin diseases.

Pour 50 g of seeds with half a liter of vodka, leave for two weeks (necessarily in a dark place), while shaking occasionally. Strained tincture is taken 20 drops three times a day.

Decoction

It is indicated for all diseases of the liver, pancreas, kidneys. Also used in the treatment of cancer.

To prepare the oil 5 tsp. crushed seeds are poured into 500 ml of olive oil, then the mixture is boiled in a water bath for about 15 minutes, infused for another half an hour, filtered and taken in a teaspoon three times a day.

You can buy ready-made oil at the pharmacy, which is taken according to the instructions.

Milk thistle meal

The meal is the ground seeds of the plant, from which milk thistle oil has been extracted by cold pressing. The powder obtained in this way is enriched with fiber, which cleanses the intestines and stimulates its work.

Milk thistle seeds for the treatment and prevention of liver pathologies - video

Making juice from milk thistle leaves - video

Contraindications and side effects

Despite the harmlessness of milk thistle and practically no contraindications for use, use this plant (as well as any other medicinal herb) should be taken carefully and under medical supervision. The fact is that milk thistle contains a large amount of calcium and phosphorus, which can lead to certain problems in the body. So, caution should be taken when taking milk thistle for people with cardiovascular diseases, since the calcium and phosphorus contained in the plant can provoke a malfunction of the heart valve.

Milk thistle is contraindicated in the following cases:
1. Individual intolerance (occurs extremely rarely).
2. Mental illnesses, including depressive states and epilepsy.
3. Shortness of breath (may provoke attacks of suffocation).

Pregnant and lactating women before taking milk thistle, it is imperative to consult a doctor who will determine the appropriateness of using the drug.

In general, milk thistle goes well with other medicines.

Side effects
Side effects due to the intake of milk thistle are extremely rare, mild pain in the liver, and diarrhea. If such manifestations last longer than two days, it is necessary to stop taking the plant.

Milk thistle and alcohol

Once in the body, milk thistle preparations neutralize the effect of alcohol, remove toxins and toxins, thereby eliminating the following signs of a hangover:

• headache;
• weakness;

1 tbsp milk thistle seeds pour 250 ml of boiling water, infuse for 10 minutes and drink at a time. After 15 minutes, alcohol intoxication will significantly weaken, and the signs of a hangover will “leave”.

Milk thistle is also actively used in the treatment of alcohol dependence, since it has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the liver, which is primarily due to the antioxidant effect of the plant. It was proved that taking milk thistle preparations (namely, silymarin) for six months at a daily dosage of 420 mg led to biochemical changes in the body, indicating an increase in the antioxidant potential of not only cells, but also blood serum. At the same time, the concentration of substances that exhibited the properties of oxidizing agents decreased.

Milk thistle is inexpensive, safe and effective method reducing the progression of a disease such as cirrhosis of the liver (it is this disease that is a faithful companion of alcoholism).

milk thistle recipes

Wound healing compress

The leaves, from which it is first necessary to cut the thorns, are washed well and crushed to a mushy state. The resulting mixture is applied to the wound and bandaged. Abrasions, scratches and cuts will disappear in 2 to 3 days if such compresses are applied daily.

Decoction for arthritis and sciatica

A tablespoon of milk thistle roots is poured with 250 ml of hot water (it is advisable to use enameled dishes). Next, the product is put on a slow fire and boiled in a closed container for another 20 minutes. The decoction removed from the fire is filtered hot through a triple layer of gauze, after which it is diluted with boiling water to 250 ml. A decoction is taken three times a day for a tablespoon.

The same recipe in the form of gargles will help to cope with toothache, while taking it internally will cure urinary retention and cramps.

Decoction for diseases of the liver and gastrointestinal tract

Pour 30 g of seeds with half a liter of water, put the product to boil over low heat until half of the liquid has evaporated. The remaining broth is removed from the heat and infused for 10 minutes, after which it is carefully filtered and taken in 1 tbsp. every hour for twelve hours. The course of treatment with such a decoction is 21 days, then a break is made for two weeks, and then the course continues for another 21 days.

Powder for poisoning

Seed powder can be consumed 5 times a day, one tablespoon to relieve symptoms of poisoning (a decoction should be taken at regular intervals). The course of treatment lasts until the complete elimination of the symptoms of poisoning.

In addition, milk thistle powder is indicated during radiation or chemotherapy, one dessert spoon four times a day (as in the previous case, milk thistle is taken at regular intervals). The powder is taken for 20 - 25 days.

Before use, you should consult with a specialist.

This plant has rare qualities, because it is based on a unique component - silymarin. The use of milk thistle for medicinal purposes affects many functions of the body, causing an improvement in performance. It is useful to get acquainted with the medicinal qualities of this plant.

Milk thistle herb - its properties and uses

This medicinal raw material is used - milk thistle or milk thistle - in many recipes of official and traditional medicine. All parts of the plant are used - seeds, roots, leaves. Useful properties of milk thistle are based on the substance - silymarin, which is a natural hepatoprotector, has a powerful antioxidant effect. With the help of milk thistle, you get:

• neutralize toxins;
• protect, restore cell membranes;
• activate the growth of new ones;
• synthesize protein compounds;
• produce bile.

The benefits of milk thistle are that the medicinal components that make up the composition contribute to:

• normalization of metabolic processes;
• wound healing;
• establishing a balance of hormones;
• normalization of blood circulation;
• elimination of inflammation;
• regulation of water exchange;
• strengthening immunity;
• carrying out disinfection;
• general strengthening action;
• an obstacle to the formation of cancer cells.

Milk thistle is used in the form of oil, seeds, leaves, meal. Prescribe drugs for the treatment of:

• liver diseases;
• dysbacteriosis;
• problems with urination;
• diseases of the gallbladder;
• hemorrhoids;
• constipation
• obesity;
• diabetes;
• thyroid diseases;
• myopathy;
• radiculitis;
• alopecia;
• stomatitis;
• dermatitis;
• allergic manifestations;
• diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
• peptic ulcer;
• arthritis.

A decoction is made from the milk thistle root. To do this, it is dried and crushed. The leaves can be brewed and drunk as a tea. The peculiarity of milk thistle is that when treated with heat, the content of useful substances decreases. It is recommended to use fresh leaves for salads, dressings for wounds - after grinding. Milk thistle juice is used in treatment plans, which is used:

• for the purpose of wiping the skin of the face against a rash;
• for compresses on the joints;
• drink with constipation, colitis.

Milk thistle oil - useful properties and contraindications

The use of the oil composition of the medicinal plant is very effective. Milk thistle preparations are used by cosmetologists to prepare masks to treat hair and improve facial skin tone. Good reviews have the use of milk thistle in dermatology, it can be used to cure:

• psoriasis;
• burns;
• dermatitis;
• allergic rashes;
• ulcers;
• wounds, cracks.

Milk thistle oil contains polyunsaturated fatty acids. If taken orally capsules, you can achieve good results:

• improve the elasticity of blood vessels;
• support the heart muscle;
• accelerate recovery after radiation exposure;
• reduce cholesterol levels;
• improve the functioning of the pancreas;
• reduce pain;
• accelerate the healing of the ulcer;
• increase the production of bile;
• improve blood clotting;
• prevent the development of diabetes.

Milk thistle seeds - medicinal properties and contraindications

Plants in the form of seeds are used to make oil, meal, but the best way is sprouting. At the same time, the active characteristics of milk thistle are enhanced. Due to the increased amount of bioflavonoids, the nearby antioxidants are stimulated. The healing properties of sprouted grains help:

• increase intestinal motility;
• restore liver function;
• improve kidney function;
• raise immunity;
• accelerate wound healing;
• normalize the work of blood vessels.

Using milk thistle seeds for medicinal purposes, it must be remembered that this is not always beneficial for the body. It should be taken into account that as a result of the use of the drug, side effects may appear - discomfort, pain in the liver, diarrhea, allergic reactions. There are contraindications for use:

• the presence of large stones in the gallbladder - the likelihood of their movement;
• cardiovascular pathologies;
• dyspnea;
• mental illness;
• drug intolerance;
• children's age less than 12 years;
• pregnancy;
• lactation.

Milk thistle meal - benefits and harms

The use of this plant after processing the seeds has received excellent reviews. Milk thistle meal is obtained by grinding them into powder. Due to the large amount of fiber in the composition occurs:

• purgation;
• stimulation of peristalsis;
• tissue repair;
• removal of toxins, toxins;
• nutrition of microflora;
• lowering cholesterol.

What is useful milk thistle in the form of meal? The drug is taken for the purpose of:

• normalization of fat metabolism;
• treatment of liver diseases;
• improving the excretion of bile;
• pressure stabilization;
• lowering sugar levels;
• restoration of kidney function;
• treatment of skin diseases;
• stimulating the removal of toxins;
• decrease harmful effects chemotherapy.

Milk thistle honey - useful properties

To enhance the active effect of the plant, fields are specially sown with it so that the bees collect nectar. The resulting milk thistle honey helps to improve health. If we take into account contraindications - allergies and diabetes, then the use of this product will help:

• stabilize the work of the ZhTK;
• reduce weight;
• produce bile;
• normalize liver function;
• eliminate constipation.

The healing properties of milk thistle, when combined with honey, have a general strengthening effect, contribute to:

• stabilization of the nervous system;
• pressure normalization;
• recovery after poisoning, intoxication;
• activation of metabolic processes;
• treatment of skin diseases;
• improvement after chemotherapy;
• treatment of varicose veins.

Milk thistle for the liver

Its effectiveness in medicine medicinal properties milk thistle has been proven to improve liver health. The tool is a powerful plant hepatoprotector, helps protect the walls of the body from penetration harmful substances. Milk thistle is prescribed to be taken for treatment:

• cholelithiasis;
• hepatitis A;
• cholecystitis;
• cirrhosis;
• fatty infiltration.

Milk thistle liver cleansing received good reviews - due to the antioxidant properties, toxic substances are quickly eliminated. The use of the plant contributes to:

• removal of inflammation;
• liquefaction, excretion of bile;
• acceleration of cell regeneration;
• reduce the likelihood of stone formation;
• removal of fat from cells;
• the formation of healthy cells.

Milk thistle during pregnancy

Since the substances included in the composition are highly active, it is not recommended to use milk thistle during pregnancy, even if there are indications. This is due to the strong effect on the hormonal background of the silymarin contained in it. There is no exact data on the effect of the plant on the development of the fetus - a woman should not take risks and harm the unborn child.

A storehouse of useful properties, which is already legendary - milk thistle, its beneficial properties and contraindications have been known to people for many centuries. The ancient Romans used milk thistle fruit to treat the liver. The extract was used to treat cirrhosis and hepatitis. Maryin Tatarnik (another name for the plant) is widely used by healers of our time. Medicines from this plant will help in curing a large number of diseases.

Milk thistle is one of the subspecies of the thistle. Other names: prickly, silver tatarnik, Maryin tatarnik. A distinctive feature of this type of plant is the presence of white spots on its leaves. It is a thorny plant of the Compositae family. The flowers are bright purple, collected in rosettes. The flowering of the plant occurs in July-August. Milk thistle is not whimsical, it grows like a weed almost everywhere, it is more common in the south of Russia, in the Caucasus and in Central Asia.

Procurement of medicinal raw materials

endowed with medicinal properties underground part plants, that is, the root, and aboveground - leaves, baskets. But the seeds are the most valuable. It is necessary to collect them starting from August. The main signal for the collection of raw materials is the formation of white fluff in baskets. Baskets with seeds need to be cut with secateurs. You can dry them on a sieve, pre-lined with paper or cloth. The room in which the raw material is dried must be well ventilated. As soon as the baskets are dry, cut off all the thorns, then break them open and shake out the seeds. They also need to dry well. To do this, lay them out in a thin layer on paper. It is recommended to store seeds in cloth bags for no more than three years.

The roots and leaves of milk thistle are harvested, as a rule, in the autumn, immediately after the seeds ripen. The dug up roots and cut leaves are washed and crushed. Then dry under a canopy in the open air, or in a well-ventilated room. The shelf life of leaves and rhizomes is one year.

Useful substances in milk thistle

This medicinal plant contains a large amount of silymarin, fatty oils, resinous substances, essential oils, mucous substances, lignans, flavonoids, saponins, organic acids, protein, alkaloids, vitamins of groups B, C, E, K, selenium.

The substance silymarin, which is part of the plant, helps to strengthen cell membranes, increase bile production, stimulate protein synthesis and neutralize the harmful effects of poisons.

The fatty oils contained in milk thistle are responsible for the regeneration of tissues and cells, inflammatory process, normalization of metabolic processes, wound healing. Normalization of the central nervous system, increased secretion of glands and intestinal motility - all this happens due to the presence of essential oils in the plant. Resinous substances contribute to the neutralization of pathogenic microbes and bacteria, increase the body's defenses and disinfect wounds.

The vitamins that make up the thornberry are able to provide the body with energy, relieve stress, both mental and physical, strengthen the immune system, improve the condition of the skin, enhance the growth and development of bone tissue, increase capillary permeability, reduce manifestations of menopause to speed up the wound healing process.

Milk thistle - useful properties and contraindications

Medicines from milk thistle have the following medicinal properties:

• anti-inflammatory;
• diuretic;
• choleretic;
• antitumor;
• restorative;
• detoxification;
• lactogenic;
• wound healing;
• hepatoprotective;
• antiulcer;
• immunomodulatory;
• laxatives;
• antiallergic.

The thorn is used in hepatology, toxicology, cardiology, oncology, endocrinology, dermatology and cosmetology. Medicines from milk thistle contribute to the normalization of the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, suppression of the production of histamine, which provokes the appearance headaches and allergies, normalization of the functioning of the liver, regeneration of the liver tissue, healing of wounds, normalization of the condition of the skin.

Medicinal raw materials are used to prepare medicines that help cure the following diseases:

• skin ailments, dermatosis;
• alopecia;
• vitiligo;
• psoriasis;
• depriving;
• diabetes;
• varicose veins;
• sciatica;
• hepatitis A;
• anemia;
• liver cirrhosis;
• gynecological problems;
• ailments of the thyroid gland;
• toothache;
• bronchitis;
• colitis.

Traditional medicine recipes

Seed infusion used to normalize liver function, eliminate pain in diseases of the joints. To prepare it, you will need two tablespoons of plant seed powder. Take the seeds and crush them to a powdery consistency. You can do this with a coffee grinder. Place the raw materials in a thermos and pour half a liter of boiled water, then leave to infuse for ten hours. Strain, squeeze well and use 100 ml three to four times a day.

root decoction helps with sciatica, with convulsions, and is also used as a rinse for toothache. 1 table is placed on a glass of boiling water. a spoonful of chopped root, everything is covered with a lid and aged in a water bath for about 30 minutes. The hot broth is filtered and brought to the initial volume with boiled water. Take the medicine three times a day for 1 table. spoon.

Milk thistle tincture - an effective remedy for the treatment of ailments of the skin. Take fifty grams of plant seeds and pour 500 ml of vodka. Leave to infuse for a week. Don't forget to shake from time to time. Take twenty drops of the tincture three times a day.

Decoction of milk thistle recommended for use in diseases of the liver, kidneys or pancreas. Take 30 grams of milk thistle seeds, pour half a liter of water and put on the stove. Boil until half of the liquid has boiled away. Take one teaspoon of the decoction once an hour. The duration of the course is three weeks.

milk thistle tea useful for the gastrointestinal tract, gallstones, varicose veins and colds. 1 teaspoon is put into one glass of boiling water. a spoonful of seeds. Tea is infused for a quarter of an hour and filtered. You need to drink hot 2 times a day (morning and evening).

milk thistle juice normalizes bowel function. It is necessary to prepare juice at the moment the plant throws out a flower arrow, when flower baskets open. Remove large leaves from the plant and squeeze the juice out of them. Take a spoonful once a day - in the morning on an empty stomach. The duration of the course is a month.

Today we will find out the beneficial and medicinal properties of milk thistle for healing the whole body, especially the liver, recipes based on it, their use in official and traditional medicine, contraindications for use, find out its benefits and possible harm, get acquainted with the photo of the plant, watch the video.

By the way, below you can see a photo of what this plant looks like:
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I have a favorite thorn - milk thistle, here is my story about it today. We will find out the medicinal properties of milk thistle, in what form it can be taken, how to use it correctly, and for what problems of the body it is an indispensable healer.

The milk thistle plant also has such names as gostropestry and Mary thistle, Virgin Mary thistle (Mariendistel), silver tartar.

Spotted milk thistle (holy or milk thistle) has long been revered by many peoples of the world as a super healthy remedy. Traditions say that it was the Virgin Mary who presented people with a healing milk that can cure various diseases (white spots on the leaves of milk thistle). When the stem or leaves are broken, a white liquid is released, which was previously used by those who did not have milk to feed the baby.

History documents say that 2000 years ago, the Greeks used a decoction of the seeds of this plant to treat various diseases. Modern recipes of traditional medicine convey the same information to us. Flour from milk thistle seeds and meal is especially popular. Meal is the seeds of milk thistle, pomace, which remained after the extraction of milk thistle oil.

It is hard to believe that such a nondescript plant can have such a great restorative effect, but I have seen it myself.

I will tell you how I got acquainted with the effective action of this medicinal plant. In a past life, before blogging, I was engaged in phytocomplexes, which I still take to this day. And there is such a phytocomplex, which I often mention in my articles - Lifesafe (from English. Liver in the safe - that is, liver protection).

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It was developed by scientists of the Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine under the guidance of Professor Lapshin and includes:

• ground fruits of milk thistle
• immortelle sandy
• lemon balm
• yarrow
• corn silk

Each of the listed medicinal plants performs its own function, but the main one belongs to milk thistle - namely the seeds of this herb contribute to the restoration of diseased liver cells, acting as a phyto-hepato-protector.
Thanks to milk thistle, I repaired a lot of things in my body, which at that time began to lose ground - my health began to bother me (10 years ago).

What I got rid of thanks to milk thistle:

1. my liver began to work normally - I stopped getting sick often, and if I happened to catch something, it passed quickly and without complications, since the liver is our inner healer
2. the extensive light brown spots on the face in the region of the cheekbones, chin and forehead disappeared, which appeared as soon as the sun became more active in the spring - I was pockmarked and hid it in foundation
3. the surface of the skin itself has improved significantly - it has become smooth and even, without a single pigment spot or pimple
4. emotional outbursts and mood swings have significantly decreased, I have become much calmer and do not get turned on half a turn from any nonsense
5. the work of the intestines improved and bloating disappeared, the rumbling and seething in the stomach and intestines disappeared
6. bitterness in the mouth in the morning is gone forever and my tongue is now never whitish and coated, I also got rid of bad breath

The result that I got is enough to recommend this plant to everyone - suddenly you have similar troubles that ruin your life.

The use of milk thistle. In what form can it be applied

Milk thistle is an edible medicinal plant. In the pharmacy and distribution network, you can purchase various milk thistle derivatives:

• oil pressed from seeds
• milk thistle seed tincture
• syrup
• seeds and flowers, powdered
• meal - the remains of seeds after squeezing the oil
• fresh leaves and flowers - an additive to salads and raw materials for tea

At home, milk thistle is used to make teas and infusions, decoctions.

Milk thistle capsules produced by various manufacturers of phytopreparations (food additives). I myself use milk thistle in encapsulated form.

The oil is used for burns, they treat eczema. Well softens dry skin, used as a remedy for wrinkles in cosmetology.

Meal and leaves, plant stems are an excellent sorbent for poisoning of any kind: chemical, food, alcohol. Restoring and regenerating function, choleretic - has no equal.

Chemical composition

To find out what medicinal properties milk thistle contains, you need to look at its composition and find out what, according to reference books on herbal medicine, is hidden in the depths of this green treasure.

Relatively recently, it was "deciphered" chemical composition substances that give the plant its natural color. As it turned out, these substances, called flavonoids, have not only a “coloring” effect, but also a therapeutic one. This is achieved due to the antioxidant properties of flavonoids.

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Not only the leaves, but also the tissues of milk thistle also contain flavonoids, including the so-called silymarins, which include silydianin, silybin, and silicristin. It is these compounds that give the plant its main medicinal properties.

The plant has a rich vitamin composition, contains rare substances necessary for a person, many microelements. Most often, plant seeds or their meal are used for medicinal purposes - as a food additive, it is also used in dietary nutrition.

Silymarin restores hepatocytes - the main construction material liver. After removing part of the liver, it is able to regenerate its own tissue and the first assistant in this is silymarin, which contains milk thistle.

It strengthens the walls of the liver, making them less permeable to various harmful factors, and gradually the liver is regenerated. It is known that milk thistle seeds significantly accelerate this process. That is, after liver damage, the use of milk thistle preparations leads to a faster recovery.

Milk thistle has an antioxidant effect: silymarin protects the membranes of liver cells from the aggressive effects of free radicals than prevents cells from becoming cancerous.

Iron, zinc, B vitamins and a large number of trace elements have made milk thistle famous in folk and official medicine.

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The plant has a number of useful substances in its composition:

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Milk thistle has a large set of micro and macro elements:

Data-lazy-type="image" data-src="https://prozdorovechko.ru/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/microelements.jpg" alt="(!LANG:microelements" width="232" height="363" srcset="" data-srcset="https://i2.wp..jpg?w=232&ssl=1 232w, https://i2.wp..jpg?resize=192%2C300&ssl=1 192w" sizes="(max-width: 232px) 100vw, 232px" data-recalc-dims="1">!} The presence of vitamins B, K, F, E, A, D, C helps to quickly restore vitality and body functions, using milk thistle in any form, especially in the form of meal and seed flour.

The leaves and stems of a young plant are similar in composition to vegetables - they contain a large amount of plant fibers, which helps to cleanse the intestines and remove toxins.

Milk thistle seed oil is rich in unsaturated fatty acids and can adequately replace that of fish.

Its most valuable components are: silymarin (flavonoids), silybin and silidonin (flavanolignans), mineral compounds and the presence of unsaturated fatty acids.

Silymarins and other flavonoids are not the only components of milk thistle tissue that are beneficial to humans. Here are just some of the most widely represented substances in the composition of this plant that can significantly enhance the therapeutic effect:

• Tyramine and histamine are substances that stimulate natural biological processes.
• Metals and other inorganic elements such as iodine, selenium, chromium, manganese, boron and the most "weighty" components, copper and zinc. All these substances are present in extremely small doses, from 0.09 micrograms per gram to 1.16 micrograms. At the same time, the content of components such as calcium, magnesium, iron, potassium and magnesium is already measured in milligrams per gram - from 0.08 mg to 16.6 mg.
• A whole bunch of vitamins - firstly, group B, secondly, A, K, D, F and E.
• The so-called factor T is an enzyme that promotes the resorption of blood clots.
• Phospholipids, tocopherols and acylglycerols, we can talk about a whole complex of lipids.
• Essential and fatty oils (the latter in high concentration, in some cases around 32%).

And this is only a small part of the composition of milk thistle tissues, there are much more useful elements.

Useful medicinal properties of milk thistle and contraindications

Consider milk thistle in terms of medicinal and beneficial properties for our body, why it should be introduced into your diet as a dietary supplement or in the form of salads from the leaves and stems of the plant.

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Milk thistle: medicinal properties for our health

To find out what medicinal properties milk thistle contains, we examined its composition described above. According to reference books on herbal medicine, the bowels of this green treasure contains more than four hundred useful elements.

Plant a wide range actions to improve human health. It has the following healing properties:

• Antiviral
• Antiallergic
• Antioxidant
• Immunomodulatory
• Hepatoprotective and cytoprotective
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antitoxic
• Anticancer (antifibrotic)
• Laxative
• Choleretic
• Diuretic
• Wound healing
• Cholesterol-lowering
• Antispasmodic

Based on this list, we can conclude that Maryina thorn is excellent for including it in the complex therapy of many types of diseases. Most often it is included in herbal mixtures against such ailments:

1. diseases of the cardiovascular system (atherosclerosis, hypertension, myocarditis, varicose veins)
2. diseases of the gastrointestinal tract (hepatitis, fatty hepatosis, cholecystitis, cholangitis, colitis, chronic constipation)
3. pathologies of the spleen and pancreas (splenitis, pancreatitis, diabetes mellitus)
4. skin diseases (psoriasis, eczema, acne, allergic dermatitis)
5. diseases of the lungs and bronchi (pneumonia, bronchitis, bronchial asthma, emphysema)
6. diseases of the musculoskeletal system (rheumatoid arthritis and arthrosis, radiculitis, plexitis)
7. disorders in the genitourinary system (prostatitis, urethritis, cystitis, nephritis)

Also decoctions and infusions from various parts milk thistle is used to reduce weight and normalize the overall metabolism, to prevent or eliminate anemia, to maintain healthy vision. But the main highlight of this plant lies in its unique and inimitable healing power from liver diseases, let's deal with this in more detail.
First, I offer a short video about the benefits of milk thistle:

Healing properties of spotted thistle for the liver. How Silymarin Works

The hepatoprotective or liver cell regenerating property of milk thistle is based on its unique substance called silymarin.

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Its uniqueness lies in the fact that it is the only natural complete preparation produced by nature for high-quality and comprehensive restoration of liver tissues and functions.

It is possible that silymarin is also found in plants related to milk thistle, for example, in common tartar, but this fact has not yet been confirmed. Thus, it turns out that Maryina spine is the only comprehensively studied source of silymarin today.

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Liver tissues are approximately 60-80% composed of cells called hepatocytes. These cells take the hit from toxic substances that enter the body, as well as aggressive free radicals. Under these influences, first of all, the cell membrane suffers. Thus, to save the liver, you need to do the following:

1. Block the entry into cells and tissues of the most dangerous poisons that harm the hepatocytes themselves.
2. Stop further destruction of already damaged membranes and start the mechanisms of natural cell repair.
3. Neutralize free radicals and minimize exposure to substances that destroy hepatocyte membranes.
4. Remove painful inflammation of damaged tissues.

The silymarins found in milk thistle are effective in all four areas. Even such a strong toxin, which contains the pale grebe, is successfully blocked by silymarins. At the same time, RNA polymerase is produced, which, in turn, significantly intensifies the process. natural cell renewal.

Silymarins sharply weaken the processes of oxidation, which reliably protects cell membranes.

A wide range of healing effects of silymarin makes the use of milk thistle simply an indispensable tool for the treatment or prevention of many liver diseases.

Here is a list of these diseases:

• acute and chronic bacterial hepatitis
• fatty hepatosis
• viral hepatitis With
• cirrhosis of the liver of toxic or viral origin
• acute poisoning poisonous mushrooms, heavy metal compounds, halogenated hydrocarbons, drugs for chemotherapy
• acute or chronic disorder of general or hepatic fat metabolism
• acute and chronic cholecystitis, cholangitis and tendency to stone formation in the gallbladder and bile ducts

But in a barrel with healing honey, that is, silymarin, there was also an annoying fly in the ointment, this component is extremely difficult to dissolve. However, this unpleasant fact was circumvented by enclosing the medicinal potential of milk thistle in tablets and capsules.

Saturated and unsaturated fats. Useful and medicinal properties

Milk thistle contains approximately 32% oil, which is made up of a unique complex of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids.

When they enter the digestive system in humans, they provoke a choleretic effect, namely, a choleretic effect (the uniform synthesis of bile improves) and, in part, a cholekinetic effect (the outflow of bile improves). This primary action of milk thistle fats contributes to the disinfection of food, its better assimilation and the reduction of manifestations of intestinal dysbacteriosis.

When fatty acids enter the blood, they have anti-inflammatory, anticancer, hepatoprotective activity. They are also used as a source of energy. Since an integral part of milk thistle oil is vitamins A and E, the spectrum of action of milk thistle is significantly expanded. But only if you take the fruits of milk thistle correctly - at one time approximately 10 grams of fruit. Then the described effect from the use of milk thistle fruits is invariably achieved.

If you use a smaller amount of crushed fruits of the plant, then these actions may not appear. With gallbladder dyskinesia, chronic pancreatitis, the desired effect can also not be achieved from the fruits of the plant, since it is necessary to use certain features in the nutrition system for these diseases.

Milk thistle seed carbohydrates. Useful and medicinal properties

Despite the fact that there are a lot of carbohydrates in the fruits of the plant, according to this indicator, the fruits are not contraindicated even in diabetes mellitus, on the contrary, they are indicated. How can this be? Just the main polysaccharide is starch and its content is approximately 15%.

It is able to slowly turn into glucose in the digestive system and, getting into the blood, does not create problems for either the liver (even with fatty hepatosis) or the pancreas (even with manifestations of type 1 or type 2 diabetes mellitus).

The rest of the polysaccharides that are in the fruits of thistles (mucus, pectins, fiber) are not able to break down into simple carbohydrates and be absorbed into the bloodstream, causing stress on the pancreas or liver. Moving through the intestines, mucus, pectins, fiber enhance intestinal peristalsis, and together with fats that provide a choleretic effect, contribute to the elimination of frequent constipation.

There is not a rough cleansing of the intestines, as some laxatives do, but cleansing of the intestines in the full sense - due to swelling of the mucus. Mucus is able to swell indefinitely in aquatic environment. If there is enough water in the diet, then the mucus swells in the intestines and collects not just water, but water with toxic substances dissolved in it. A similar action is performed by pectins, fiber.

On insoluble carbohydrates, saprophytic (beneficial) intestinal microflora develops more actively, which produces additional portions of vitamins. Competitively suppressing pathogenic microflora, it helps to improve the intestinal microflora.

And if you remember that the choleretic function vegetable oils helps our liver make room in the gallbladder for new portions of bile (and this is the dirt that the liver found in the blood), then there is a global cleansing of the blood and cleansing of our body as a whole. As we can see, the effect of correct application polysaccharides - in the presence of sufficient water - quite serious and important for health.

Proteins in fruits - useful and medicinal properties

An important component in thistles for health is proteins. They contain about 6%, and according to this indicator, the plant lags behind cereals and cereals by about two times. True, due to the high fat content, the fruits have a high calorie content - about 370 kilocalories.

The presence of protein in milk thistle makes it beneficial for people who have switched to a vegetarian diet. Adding crushed flour from milk thistle seeds will help to partially compensate for the protein deficiency in their body.

With useful properties We figured out Mary's thorn, now let's deal with contraindications and side effects, because they also have a place to be, and they need to be known and remembered.

The main contraindications to the use of milk thistle

Although most users of medicines based on milk thistle claim that there are no contraindications to the use of the plant, they still exist.

Here are some contraindications to taking thistle spotted:

• individual intolerance to the components of the herb
• the presence of serious mental illness (epilepsy, depressive-manic state, protracted neuroses)
• exacerbation of gallstone disease, when the risk of stone movement is high, or stones are large
• heart disease, where the leading role is played by the level of calcium and phosphorus (more often it concerns the work of heart valves)
• bowel diseases accompanied by diarrhea, and in general a tendency to loose and frequent stools

According to some reviews, when taking oil or meal, pain in the liver, bloating, mild nausea may occur. But in most cases, all these phenomena disappear within a couple of days after the start of the reception.

With great care, pregnant women and nursing mothers should be treated with preparations from Maryina thorn, since this spotted herb can cause the expulsion of the fetus or cause severe diarrhea in the baby.

Contraindications to the use of milk thistle for the liver are mainly related to the use of alcohol tincture. It is worth supplementing this list only by indicating that milk thistle for the liver is unsuitable for nursing mothers, pregnant women and "cores".

The use of any parts of milk thistle is also undesirable for children under 12 years of age, this contraindication is associated with the instability of the young organism and the danger that the useful actions of the plant will turn into troubles in the form of diarrhea, heartburn and upset digestion.

In pharmacies, you can buy tablets and capsules made from milk thistle, which are more familiar to many patients. Medicines "Legalon", "Gepabene", or "Phosfonciale" are represented by capsules protected by a layer of gelatin, inside of which there is a powder.

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Tablets look no different from any other drugs. It can be Sibektan, Legalen, the more familiar Karsil and Karsil Forte, as well as Salimar. All tablets are sold with precise instructions for their use.

In addition, meal is also sold - in fact, already prepared powder from milk thistle seeds.

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Experts believe that in this form, the plant will not bring benefits, since silymarin is easily destroyed by exposure to light, oxidation in air, and also when heated. So that it is absolutely pointless to prepare decoctions and brew "healing tea"(this is the opinion of pharmacists).

The listed medicines (drugs) can be easily found in any pharmacy, the price of tablets with the medicinal properties of Maryina thorn varies from 250 to 900 rubles per box, designed for a monthly course. The drugs are grouped under common name plant hepatoprotectors.

All medicines of the group of herbal hepatoprotectors work quite well. in an interesting way. When they enter the stomach, they are absorbed into the blood and then pass through the bloodstream to the liver.

There they are taken by hepatocytes in about half of their total volume, and the rest of the drug goes into the bile. From the gallbladder, the rest of the drug is released into the duodenum, enters the small intestine, where it is once again absorbed into the bloodstream and goes to the liver, where it is absorbed.

It turns out that one vegetable tablet brings benefits 2 times more than synthetically created. By the way, herbal tablets are popular only in Russia and the CIS countries, and in Western Europe and the USA they are practically not used due to insufficient research into the composition of the raw materials.

Of course, prescribe the dose and duration of administration pharmaceutical preparations the doctor should, based on the individual condition of the patient and the indicators of the tests taken from him.

Inflammatory processes are stopped due to the fact that the body, under the influence of fatty acids contained in milk thistle, produces prostaglandins.

Self-preparation of medicinal preparations at home

Milk thistle for the liver is used in various forms, with the most simple options allow self-preparation of medicines. Actually, there are basically two options:

• tincture
• powder.

In both cases, crushed milk thistle seeds are used. The only difference is that to make a tincture, the powder is poured with vodka (ideally alcohol) and infused for a week. Vodka should be five times more than powder.

The convenience of a tincture compared to a powder is that the tincture can be stored and consumed gradually, but the prepared powder must be taken immediately and made in single doses each time.

The action of the tincture is more pronounced, so it is best to take it only with the consent of the doctor. Tincture is contraindicated for those who should not drink alcohol. So with alcoholic cirrhosis of the liver, this method is unacceptable. The use of tincture is also excluded in the presence of acute cholecystitis, pancreatitis and liver failure.

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Dosage for milk thistle tincture is- from one to 20 drops (it is better to find out the exact dosage from the doctor, after all), and for powder- one tablespoon a day. Take the powder before meals.

Overdose can cause pain in the right side. It can be caused by blockage of the bile duct by stones. Also, an overdose can cause the movement of previously static gallstones. Therefore, remember the recommended dose of milk thistle tincture or powder above.
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Milk thistle for the liver: how to take

The liver will not fail if you eat foods that enhance the secretion of bile. Milk thistle will help out - an excellent choleretic agent. It cleanses and regenerates liver cells.

This is a powerful weed that is cultivated in many countries of the world. It is used not only in traditional medicine - the plant provides the necessary raw materials for the medical industry. Included in the composition of choleretic agents, nutritional supplements, known throughout the world.

It is known that the liver is an important, multifunctional organ. It's like a small laboratory where enzymes are constantly created that are important for the functioning of the whole organism.

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• find and remove toxic substances from the body, purify the blood
• break down fats, ensuring the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins
• control, maintain the energy balance of the body
• The liver is a kind of storage for all the substances necessary to nourish the different cells of the body.

At the first signal about the lack of any element, the liver immediately replenishes it - but only if it is not weakened and can quickly respond.

Any malfunction in the liver can be identified by such unpleasant symptoms:

• flatulence, constipation or diarrhea
• constant weakness, drowsiness
• irritability, emotional jumps for no apparent reason
• heart palpitations
• decrease in the level of hemoglobin in the blood
• blurred vision

Digestion is a complex activity. Poorly digested foods cause metabolic disorders. Without the participation of the liver, digestion is impossible.. During the day, a healthy organ produces about a liter of bile.

What is bile for?

For the daily production of a bitter yellow liquid - bile, minerals, proteins, and water are consumed. Bile is stored in the gallbladder.
During digestion, food moves from the stomach to the duodenum to continue the process. At this moment, the required amount of bile is released from the bladder - provided that at least a small amount of fat.

This liquid helps to process food, to absorb all the useful substances from it. Bile removes toxic compounds formed in the body or received from external environment.
Bile stimulates the intestines, destroys putrefactive processes in it. In case of violation of the outflow of bile, digestion worsens, the work of the whole organism is disturbed:

1. food is poorly processed, digested, metabolic processes are disturbed
2. increased production of gases
3. constipation appears
4. lack of bile impairs the functioning of the pancreas, which can cause its disease.
5. papillomas, spots appear on the skin
6. accumulated toxins, excess salts are not excreted in the urine, feces. This leads to disease in the joints.
7. increased pain in the temporal part of the head

Stagnation of bile in the gallbladder causes stress, fear, irritability, sedentary lifestyle, infections, fatty foods.
Due to the fact that the bile has become thick, there is no outflow of it, sand appears in the bladder, stones begin to form. There is pain in the right side.

Cleansing and restoration of the liver

Milk thistle preparations improve liver function. The secretion of bile increases, the ducts are cleared, sand comes out of the gallbladder.

The chemical composition of milk thistle includes a rare compound that easily decomposes toxins, preventing them from entering the liver - silymarin. This substance helps the liver to form new cells instead of those destroyed by disease or alcohol.

Oil, milk thistle tincture cleanse the liver, blood, removing toxins and excess sugar from it. The intestines are also cleansed, constipation disappears. The pain in the joints goes away. Improves the work of the pancreas, kidneys.

To protect the body from intoxication with poisons in hazardous industries, it is recommended to use preparations from milk thistle for preventive purposes. The use of these drugs gives good results in the treatment of hepatitis.

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Crushed milk thistle flowers and seeds can be used in a dish, not requiring heat treatment. Add to salads, sandwiches.
Or, a few minutes before a meal, eat a teaspoon of the product with water. This will enhance the choleretic effect. After a month of taking drugs, take a break.

Self-administration of choleretic agents is recommended if the gallbladder is clean, without stones. In the presence of stones, it is necessary to consult a doctor and observe him while taking the behavior of the stones.

How to Take Milk Thistle Seeds for Liver Disease

The seeds of the milk thistle plant have the greatest healing power of the whole plant, their beneficial effect on the liver and other organs was used many centuries before the birth of Christ. It is from the seeds that tablets and extracts are made, lying on the pharmacy shelves. It was this part of the milk thistle that was carefully and repeatedly subjected to various experiments and studies.

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In the process of processing from seeds, three main products are obtained that are used in cooking, folk and official medicine - these are:

1. butter

seed oil Virgin herbs can be added to baked goods, dressed with salads and drunk to treat or prevent diseases of the liver and pancreas. For preventive purposes, use 1 teaspoon of oil - on an empty stomach 15-30 minutes before breakfast, doing this daily until the entire vial is over, repeating such courses every six months. With a therapeutic purpose, between the described courses, they take a break of 1 month and drink the oil again until the next vial runs out. So alternate reception and breaks until the disease disappears or freezes.

Flour is obtained from the unpressed mature seeds of the plant.. They are most often used for baking bread and adding to dishes and some confectionery products intended for people with diabetes and diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.

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Flour, as well as butter, is useful to take 1 teaspoon 15-30 minutes before meals, the allowed amount is up to three times a day. The course, depending on the state of health of the liver and other organs, can be from 10 to 30 days, it is advisable to consult with your doctor about the period of admission.

And a special place in this trinity occupies meal - floury powder from pressed milk thistle seeds. It is believed that it contains a concentration healing properties Mary's thorn. From myself I will say that this statement is by no means an exaggeration, I was convinced of this on personal experience and on the example of one of her friends, who suffers from sharp jumps in blood sugar and a state of prediabetes.

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At one time I took meal courses, completely cleansed the liver and for many years I have not been going to the clinic, I do not suffer from colds, I do not get fat and I look great for my age. And my friend, having experienced a clinical death a year ago, on one of the tests she found out that her blood sugar was 2 times higher than normal. I recommended that she take milk thistle meal, and a week later, she boasted to me that sugar had dropped from 13.7 to 8.5 units.

I believe that every person, especially city dwellers, both sick and healthy, should include oil, flour or meal of Maryina thorn in their diet. Agree, it is much easier to prevent a disease than to treat it, especially since the price of oil, flour and milk thistle meal is only 80-120 rubles per box or bottle for a monthly course, and their healing properties are truly priceless.

How to be treated with milk thistle herb: decoction, juice, tincture

Milk thistle grass, like its seeds, is widely used to treat diseases of the liver and other digestive organs. Decoctions and infusions are prepared from it, both for drinking and for external use in the form of lotions, compresses and baths for skin diseases.

Also, juice is prepared from the leaves of milk thistle, which is not inferior to the above-ground part of the plant in terms of healing effects. And now - a few recipes.

Herbal decoction for oral administration

Take 1 tablespoon of chopped milk thistle herb and pour it with a glass of boiling water. Then heat for 15 minutes in a water bath, then remove the broth from the heat and let stand for another 45 minutes, wrapping the container in a towel. When the broth is infused, strain it and take a third of a glass 3 times a day half an hour before meals, the course lasts 30 days.

This decoction helps not only to treat the liver, but also to improve metabolism, normalize stools and cleanse the skin of acne. It can also be poured into ice molds and, after freezing it into cubes, wipe the skin of the face with them after morning and evening washing to eliminate acne and oily sheen.

To get juice, the leaves are passed through a meat grinder, and then they are placed in gauze, rolled up in 3-4 layers, and the liquid is carefully twisted into an enamel bowl. Another, more easy way is to pass the leaves through an ordinary household juicer. Maryina thorn juice is used for many diseases of the liver, skin, constipation, hypovitaminosis, digestive and metabolic disorders.

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Juice can be preserved by making a tincture out of it. To do this, 100 ml of 70% alcohol or good vodka are taken per 1 liter of freshly squeezed juice, mixed thoroughly and allowed to stand for 3-7 days. The resulting tincture is taken 1 teaspoon per 50 ml of water on an empty stomach - 30 minutes before breakfast, the course is 30 days. Use tincture to treat the skin with wounds, sores, pustules and other inflammatory processes.

Considerable healing power is possessed by spotted thistles and flowers. For the treatment of ailments of the liver, gallbladder, intestines and skin, decoctions and infusions are prepared from them. To obtain infusion 1 tbsp. a spoonful of flower baskets is poured with a glass of boiling water, wrapped and left overnight.

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Prepare a decoction: take raw materials and water in the same proportions as for the infusion, and boil over low heat or in a water bath for 10-15 minutes. The finished medicine is filtered and taken in thirds - quarters of a glass 3-4 times a day 30 minutes before meals.

By the way, hard-working little bees collect amazingly tasty honey, the medicinal properties of which are used in medicine, cooking, and cosmetology. It should be eaten 1-2 tablespoons a day, preferably in the morning, 30 minutes before breakfast and lunch.

This honey can also be added to tea or milk, just make sure that the temperature of the liquids does not exceed 40 degrees. In too hot drinks, honey quickly breaks down and loses its healing abilities and can even decompose into harmful and dangerous carcinogens.

If you are worried about acne, acne and oily sheen of the skin of the face, then thistle honey can make an excellent mask. Without further ado, apply the product in a thin layer on the face, hold the mask for 10-15 minutes, and then wash your face with warm running water without soap. Do this procedure 2 times a week, and in a month you will forget about the mentioned skin troubles.

Attention, milk thistle honey, like any other honey, is an allergenic product. If you have an individual intolerance to bee products, then you will have to refuse treatment with thistle honey, and look at the photo for how it looks.

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Milk thistle root - how to use

The root of the plant does not lag behind in healing properties from the rest of the Maryina thorn. Infusions, decoctions and tinctures are also prepared from it for the treatment of the diseases of the liver and gastrointestinal tract mentioned more than once. Here is how to properly prepare the medicine from the specified part of the plant:

1. Take 1 tbsp. l. crushed roots, place them in a refractory enameled container and pour one glass of boiling water.
2. Then, for 30 minutes, heat the infusion in a water bath, and then, after wrapping it, insist the medicine for about an hour.
3. When this time is up, strain the infusion through a four-layer gauze and bring it to its original volume.

Take an infusion of the root for 1 tbsp. l. 3 times a day 30 minutes before meals, the course is from 15 to 30 days. By the way, when preparing medicines, you can mix any parts of milk thistle with each other, for example, seeds and roots, or grass and flowers, so the effect will be even brighter. Now let's see when which parts of the plant need to be harvested.

Milk thistle for other internal organs

Milk thistle is used primarily for therapy and repair of liver cells. The liver, as you know, suffers greatly from poisoning itself. different kind as well as hepatitis. It is these diseases that are “profile” for milk thistle. However, silymarins help to restore cells and other internal organs:

• kidneys, which allows the use of milk thistle in nephrolithiasis;
• pancreas, which indicates the possibility of treating cholecystitis;
• ureters and biliary tract, which indicates the use of milk thistle against diseases such as uraturia and dyskinesia (for the biliary tract).

Since some drugs have unpleasant side effects in the form of effects on the tissues of the kidneys and liver, milk thistle should be used in these cases as a rehabilitative agent in parallel with drug treatment.

When to collect seeds. Instructions for collecting different parts of the plant

Just want to warn you if you don't know appearance plants, live in a polluted area and do not have the opportunity to leave for an ecologically clean area, then it is better to buy raw materials in pharmacies. Fortunately, the prices for dried grass, meal and milk thistle oil are budgetary, and even grandmothers with a small pension can afford such drugs.

But if you know the plant well and still decide to start collecting it yourself, here is a small instruction for collecting different parts of milk thistle.

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Adhering to it, the medicinal properties of the plant will come to you in the most complete composition:

1. The aerial part, that is, the grass, is harvested when the plant is in bloom;
2. The flowers are harvested when they are fully opened;
3. The leaves are torn just before the start of flowering, when the buds are already swollen to the maximum, but have not yet opened;
4. Seeds are removed after they are fully ripe, around the end of August - beginning of September;
5. The roots are dug up in the fall after October 15, or in the spring after April 15.

Now you know at what period of the plant's growing season it is better to collect different parts of milk thistle in order to preserve their greatest usefulness.

It remains to find out how practicing doctors and ordinary people speak about Maryina Thorn.