“Marian thistle, also known as milk thistle, milk thistle or leafworm, is a medicinal plant widely used to make home remedies for liver and gallbladder problems, for example. Its scientific name is Silybum marianum and can be found in health food stores, pharmacies and some street markets.
The main active ingredient of this plant is silymarin, which in addition to acting on the liver and gallbladder, increases the production of breast milk. Learn how to prepare this natural remedy to increase breast milk production.
- Thistle has anti-inflammatory.
- Astringent.
- Digestive.
- Diuretic.
- Regenerative and antiseptic properties.
- And can be used to help treat migraines.
- Nausea.
- Varicose veins.
- Spleen or gallbladder problems.
The main application of thistle is in the treatment of liver disorders, due to one of its constituents, silymarin. This substance acts directly on liver cells damaged by excess toxic substances, such as alcohol, regenerating them and preventing further lesions. Therefore, thistle can be used to help with the treatment of cirrhosis, hepatitis or fat in the liver, for example. See 11 symptoms of liver problems.
Because it facilitates liver function, it aids in the elimination of toxins and is therefore often used in conjunction with diets to aid the weight loss process and help the person better adapt to increased physical activity.
Thistle fruits are generally used to make tea. The tea is made with a teaspoon of crushed fruit and 1 cup of boiling water. Let stand for 15 minutes, filter and drink for 3 to 4 cups a day.
This tea should only complement the treatment indicated by the doctor for fats in the liver, and should be accompanied by exercise and diet, in addition to avoiding smoking and consuming alcoholic beverages. See other home remedies for liver fat.
In addition, thistle also comes in the form of capsules or tablets, most of the time associated with other plants such as artichoke or blueberries, which also have an excellent regenerative effect of the liver. The recommended dose of capsule is usually between 1 and 5 g, it is advisable to consult a naturopath or herbalist according to each case.
Thistle, if consumed in excess, can cause stomach irritation and burns in the gastric lining, as well as diarrhea, vomiting and nausea. Therefore, the use of this medicinal plant is contraindicated in children, hypertensive patients, people who have kidney or gastric problems, such as gastritis or ulcers, for example.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should only use this plant with medical advice. While it has been identified that this plant increases breast milk production and none of the substances are found in milk, further studies are still needed to confirm that their consumption does not pose a risk to the mother or baby. .