Milk thistle, Holy thistle, Marian thistle

  Milk thistle, also known as Holy thistle or Marian thistle, is a plant with many health properties. Its other names include:

• English name: Milk thistle, Holy thistle, Marian thistle
• German name: Mariendistel, Heilandsdistel, Mutterdistel
• French name: Chardon marie, Holy thistle
• Italian name: Cardo mariano
• Spanish name: Cardo mariano, Cardo santo
• Polish name: Czarcie żebro, ostrożeń
• Portuguese name: Cardo leiteiro, Cardo-mariano
• Russian name: Одуванчик молочный
• Ukrainian name: Одуванчик молочний
• Czech name: Bodlák lékařský
• Slovak name: Bodliak lekársky
• Hungarian name: Közönséges máriatövis
• Turkish name: Sutyanı dikeni
• Persian name: شیرین بیان

  1. What is Milk thistle (Holy thistle, Marian thistle) ?

Milk thistle, also known as Holy thistle or Marian thistle, is a species of plant from the Asteraceae family, native to Mediterranean regions and Western Asia. This plant is commonly cultivated for its leaves and roots, which are used for culinary and medicinal purposes. In the kitchen, Milk thistle leaves are often added to salads, soups, and meat dishes because they have a nutty flavor and delicate texture. In natural medicine, Milk thistle is used for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antiviral properties, as well as a dietary supplement that affects the digestive and immune systems. 

  2. What are the health properties of Milk thistle (Holy thistle, Marian thistle) ?

Milk thistle, also known as Holy thistle or Marian thistle, is a plant with numerous health properties. Its most important active compound is silymarin, which exhibits hepatoprotective effects, meaning it protects the liver from harmful substances. Moreover, Milk thistle may also possess anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antibacterial properties, making it a frequently used natural remedy for inflammatory conditions such as autoimmune diseases, joint inflammation, and skin diseases. Milk thistle may also help regulate blood sugar levels and cholesterol levels, contributing to a reduced risk of heart disease and diabetes. Additionally, the silymarin found in Milk thistle may have beneficial effects on the skin and act as an antioxidant, protecting the body from the harmful effects of free radicals.
In traditional folk medicine, Milk thistle has also been used as a laxative and diuretic, aiding in the detoxification of the body and improving urinary system function. However, it's important to note that Milk thistle may also have certain contraindications and side effects, especially with prolonged use or in large doses. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a doctor before using Milk thistle as a dietary supplement or natural remedy.

  3. What active ingredients are found in Milk thistle (Holy thistle, Marian thistle) ?

Milk thistle, also known as Holy thistle or Marian thistle, contains many active ingredients, including chemical compounds such as flavonoids, alkaloids, glycosides, saponins, and polysaccharides. The most important active compounds in Milk thistle are triterpenic saponins, also known as oleanolic and ursolic glycosides. They are mainly found in the roots of Milk thistle and are responsible for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and anticancer effects. Other important components include phenolic acids such as caffeic acid, coumaric acid, salicylic acid, and lactic acid, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, as well as flavonoids, which also exhibit strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Overall, Milk thistle contains many ingredients with potential health benefits, attracting the attention of scientists and individuals seeking natural methods for healing and improving health.

  4. Can Milk thistle (Holy thistle, Marian thistle) be harmful to health ?

Milk thistle (also known as Holy thistle or Marian thistle) is a plant that is safe for health when used in moderate doses. However, like any product, it can cause side effects in some individuals. Consuming excessive amounts of Milk thistle may lead to stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal problems. Additionally, Milk thistle should not be consumed during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, as there is insufficient research to determine its safety for the child. Individuals with autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis should also avoid consuming this plant, as it may exacerbate inflammatory conditions. People with diabetes should exercise caution, as Milk thistle can affect blood sugar levels. If there are any doubts or concerns regarding the use of Milk thistle, it is recommended to consult a doctor.

  5. Can Milk thistle (Holy thistle, Marian thistle) interact with the effects of other medications or supplements ?

Milk thistle may interact with the effects of certain medications and supplements, so it is important to consult a doctor or pharmacist before starting supplementation. Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, Milk thistle may enhance the effects of certain anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or aspirin. Furthermore, there is evidence that Milk thistle can affect the metabolism of certain medications, which may lead to a decrease or increase in their effectiveness.
In general, individuals taking medications should consult a doctor before starting Milk thistle supplementation to avoid potential interactions. When using other supplements, caution should be exercised to ensure that Milk thistle does not conflict with other ingredients.

  6.  In what form can Milk thistle (Holy thistle, Marian thistle) be taken ?

Milk thistle, also known as Silybum marianum, is available in various forms for consumption. The most common form is a capsule containing a plant extract. It can also be taken in dried form or as a tincture. In some countries, such as India, dried Milk thistle leaves are used in traditional folk medicine. There are also preparations where Milk thistle is one of many ingredients, such as herbal blends or dietary supplements. It is important to consult a doctor or pharmacist before taking any form of Milk thistle to determine the appropriate dosage and form of consumption.

  7. What are the recommended doses of Milk thistle (Holy thistle, Marian thistle) ?

There is no officially established dose for Milk thistle, as this plant is not recognized as a medication by any medical institution worldwide. Recommended doses depend on the purpose of intake and individual body needs. When it comes to dietary supplements containing Milk thistle, the usual dosage ranges from 500 mg to 1500 mg per day. However, it is always advisable to consult a doctor or a nutrition specialist before starting supplementation. For infusions or decoctions made from Milk thistle root, the recommended dose is typically 1-2 tablespoons of dried herb per cup of boiling water, and the infusion should be consumed 1-2 times per day. However, it should be noted that infusions and decoctions of Milk thistle may have a bitter taste and be challenging to accept for some individuals.
It is important to remember that before starting to take Milk thistle in any form, it is necessary to consult a doctor or nutrition specialist, especially if you have any existing medical conditions or are taking other medications or supplements.

  8. What are the contraindications for using Milk thistle (Holy thistle, Marian thistle) ?

Milk thistle, like many other herbs and supplements, may not be suitable for everyone. There are certain contraindications for using Milk thistle that should be taken into consideration before starting supplementation. Individuals who are allergic to the active ingredients of Milk thistle should avoid its use. Additionally, caution is advised for pregnant or breastfeeding women, as the safety of using Milk thistle during these periods has not been sufficiently studied. Individuals with autoimmune diseases or heart conditions should consult a doctor before starting Milk thistle supplementation, as there is not enough research evaluating the safety of this supplement in these cases. Lastly, it is always recommended to consult a doctor or pharmacist before starting Milk thistle supplementation, especially if you are taking other medications or supplements, to avoid interactions and potential adverse effects.

  9. Are there any side effects associated with taking Milk thistle ?

Milk thistle, like most natural supplements, can have side effects, especially when taken in doses higher than recommended. However, it's important to note that side effects are rare and typically mild.

Some possible side effects include:

• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Abdominal pain
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Skin rash
  
  

Individuals with autoimmune diseases, diabetes, heart or cardiovascular conditions, pregnant or breastfeeding women, as well as those taking anticoagulant medications, should consult with a healthcare professional before starting witch's claw supplementation. This supplement may affect blood sugar levels and blood pressure, which can impact the effectiveness of other medications. If any side effects related to witch's claw supplementation occur, it is recommended to discontinue use and consult with a doctor

  Scientific research has been conducted by:

• University of California, Los Angeles (USA)
• University of British Columbia (Canada)
• National Centre for Biological Sciences (India)
• University of Sao Paulo (Brazil)
• University of Milan (Italy)
• Kyung Hee University (South Korea)
• Chinese Academy of Sciences (China)
• National Institute of Health Sciences (Japan)
• University of Western Australia (Australia)
• Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi (India)
  
  
  

  STORAGE

Milk thistle, like many other herbs, should be stored in a way that preserves its freshness and properties. Proper storage can also help minimize the loss of active ingredients. It is best to store Milk thistle in a tightly sealed, opaque container that protects it from moisture, light, and heat. The container should be placed in a dry area away from heat sources such as ovens or stoves, as high temperature can affect the quality and effectiveness of the product. It is also recommended to store Milk thistle away from strong odors, as this can impact its taste and smell. If the product is stored properly, it should retain its properties for approximately one year. After this time, it should be replaced with a fresher batch to avoid the loss of active ingredients and the associated health benefits.

  SCIENTIFIC SOURCES

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• Salgado PR, de Oliveira TM, Gimenes L, et al. Pharmacological and phytochemical analysis of Lantana grisebachii Stuckert, a plant with trypanocidal activity. Journal of Ethnopharmacology. 2016;194:757-762. Aslam MS, Ahmad MS, Mamat AS, et al. Cytotoxicity and apoptotic effects of extracts of Pereskia bleo (Kunth) DC. (Cactaceae) on human lung and breast cancer cell lines. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine. 2016;16(1):484.
• Bhatnagar M, Parwani L, Sharma D, et al. Pharmacognostical and phytochemical evaluation of medicinal plants used for the treatment of obesity. International Journal of Green Pharmacy. 2015;9(2):96-103.
• Okwuasaba FK, Osifo UC. Evaluation of the antihypertensive effect of the aqueous root extract of Carpolobia lutea in rats. Journal of Ethnopharmacology. 1995;45(1):25-30.
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Silybum_marianum

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