It was only in 1986, that Milk Thistle Seed Extract was approved in United States as treatment for liver disorders. But for 2000 years, Extract from Milk Thistle Seed had been used by herbalist for healing liver and gall bladder disorder. The milk thistle is a member of the sunflower family which was a native from the Mediterranean regions of Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. It was brought to America by the Europeans.

Milk thistle is unique in its ability to protect the liver and it has no equivalent anywhere in the pharmaceutical drug world. In fact, in cases of poisoning by Amanita mushroom, it is the only treatment option.

Its scientific name is Silybum Marianum and commonly called as Marian Thistle, Our Lady’s Thistle, St. Mary’s Thistle or wild artichoke.

The most important part of the plant is its black seeds whose extract contained a flavonoid compound called silymarin. This flavonolignand in the silymarin contains antioxidants which detoxify the livers, as well as, protect damage from toxins, alcohol and other negative effects. Silymarin’s strong antioxidant can inhibit the growth of cancer: the breast, cervix and prostrate.

Health benefits of the extract from milk thistle seeds:

• It is the protector of the liver. Through the potency of the antioxidant, it detoxifies and strengthens the liver. Those suffering from hepatitis and liver cirrhosis will experience an improvement in their over-all condition.
• It clears the skin for those who are suffering from acne. The antioxidant in milk thistle cleans the skin from existing acne as well as prevents new acnes from appearing.
• It supports the cardiovascular system. High levels of antioxidants are good for the cardiovascular system. It settles cholesterol issue by lowering the bad cholesterol and increasing the good cholesterol.
• It controls diabetes when combined with healthy diet and exercise.
• It soothes the digestive system, especially those associated with irritable bowel system and Crohn’s disease.. It also hinders gallstones. The powerful anti-inflammatory antioxidant   alleviates those suffering from intestinal inflammation.
• It prevents certain types of cancer by helping the liver to function normally when filled with medical treatment of powerful drugs, chemotherapy and radiation.
• It increases the milk flow of lactating mothers because of the presence of estrogen.

There are many major studies to investigate if milk thistle seed extract does indeed do what it is supposed to do. So far, results are very promising.

Silymarin as supplement is in capsule or liquid extract form. The dosage is 12 weeks to insure good outcome. For the capsule of 120 mgs. take two capsules twice daily2 times; for the liquid extract, 12 to 15 drops twice or thrice a day.

Side effects are very rare which can appear as headache, diarrhea, and skin rashes. Since herbal supplement is not regulated by the FDA, consult your health care provider for advice.

For healthy people, it will be a sound practice to use Extract from Milk Thistle Seeds to rid your body from toxins and free radicals which can accumulate in your liver or keep toxins and radicals from entering. As the saying goes, health is wealth and Milk Thistle Seed Extract can help you achieve both.