|
 Silymarin is derived from Milk Thistle (seed extract
from the flower of silymarin plant). The Milk thistle herb is a
flowering plant of Silybum Adans genus, a member of the daisy family
(Asteraceae). It grows mainly in North Africa, the Mediterranean
region and the Middle East (now also grown in the U.S.) but is
marketed and is widely available in the Philippines as a herbal
liver supplement (silymarin capsules, trademark: Liveraide).
Silymarin and milk thistle are frequently used interchangeably.
Laboratory experiments on animals (rats, baboons, dogs) shows that
silymarin works by modifying hepatic cell membranes in a way that
prevents liver toxins from entering the interior of the cells. The
toxins that may damage the liver are expelled through the kidneys
instead. Silymarin is a polyphenolic flavanoid consisting of three
chemicals: silybin, silicristin and silidianin which are
antioxidants that neutralizes and breaks down free radicals. When
there is an existing liver damage, research shows that silymarin may
help repair the damage and help regenerate new liver cells but is
unlikely to help in the late stages of liver cirrhosis.
Many studies have been published on the health benefits of milk
thistle and silymarin on humans but many are inconclusive or poorly
done. Further studies are needed to fully appreciate the health
benefits of silymarin on humans. However, anecdotal data suggests
that it helps alleviate liver diseases and other aliments.
Since most commercial silymarin and milk thistle products are
marketed as herbal supplements, they are not subjected to the same
stringent standards imposed on prescription drugs. Their safety,
purity and quality vary from brand to brand. In very rare instances,
silymarin can cause headaches, upset stomach and joint pains.
Silymarin is not recommended during pregnancy. Dozes over 1.5 grams
a day may cause diarrhoea. It is recommended that you consult with
your doctor or a health care provider before taking silymarin herbal
supplements, liver supplements or any herbal medicine.
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Anecdotal Health Benefits of Silymarin | Milk Thistle:
• Help improve liver function for those with cirrhosis of the liver and chronic hepatitis.
• Prevents inflammation of the liver
• Cure for Amanita phalloides mushroom poisoning
• Helps control blood sugar in patients with diabetes and cirrhosis.
• Helps lower cholesterol levels.
• Reduces growth of breast, prostate, cervical and skin cancer cells.
• Helps reduce fatty infiltration on the liver caused by toxins and alcohol.
• A strong antioxidant that helps fight free radicals (see Key to Healing).
• Not used to prevent hepatitis C, but used to minimize the damage caused by it.
• Non-toxic / no known overdose symptoms. |
