Milk thistle is an herbal remedy that contains high amounts of silymarin (between 65–80%), a group of plant compounds known for its antioxidant, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. This flowering plant has been used to treat various health conditions and some of them are listed below.
May Help Lower Blood Sugar Levels For People With Diabetes
Milk thistle has been found to contain essential compounds that work similarly to some diabetic medications by decreasing blood sugar and helping improve insulin sensitivity. It may also be useful in lowering down a person’s chance of developing diabetic complications.
Silymarin, an important component of milk thistle, has been shown to significantly reduce the fasting blood sugar levels and HbA1c (a measure of blood sugar control) in people.
Helps Limit The Spread Of Cancer
A 2016 review revealed that milk thistle may help stop the spread of certain types of cancer. Its extract may help inhibit the growth of cancerous cells in colorectal cancer.
Helps Reduce Cholesterol Buildup
We need to be aware that high cholesterol levels increase our chances of stroke and having heart diseases.
Milk thistle may play an important role in keeping our cholesterol levels down, according to a 2006 study. In the study, experts have found that cholesterol levels were lower in people taking milk thistle to treat diabetes than those taking a placebo.
It Could Help Treat Acne
Though acne is not dangerous, this chronic inflammatory skin condition can cause scars on the affected areas. Milk thistle has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that may be useful for people with acne.
Helps Support Liver Health
Treating liver problems is one of the common uses of milk thistle. Researchers theorize that silymarin, an active ingredient in milk thistle, acts as an antioxidant that reduces free radical production and detoxifies the liver.
According to studies, improvements have been observed in the liver function of people with liver diseases who have taken a milk thistle. This suggests that it could help reduce liver inflammation and liver damage.
Moreover, in one study, it was also found that it may slightly extend the life expectancy of people with cirrhosis of the liver due to alcoholic liver disease.
