Milk thistle: medicinal properties, recipes and use for liver diseases. How to lose weight at home Milk thistle juice medicinal properties

Milk thistle, which is also called thistle, tartar or thorn, is a herbaceous plant from the Asteraceae family.

Its homeland is the Mediterranean region. It originally grew in Southern Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. However, today it is common on almost all continents.

Thistle seeds are collected in late summer or early autumn. To do this, the grass is cut, dried in the sun, and then threshed.

The resulting seeds can be left to dry in air or in a dryer at temperatures up to 50 degrees. This method is used in the industrial procurement of raw materials for the production of pharmacological drugs.

In folk medicine, the seeds, roots, and leaves of thistle are used. What are the beneficial properties of milk thistle herb and its other parts, what are the indications and contraindications for its use?

Health benefits, medicinal qualities

Milk thistle contains silymarin- a unique substance that has not been found in any other plant.

It has a strong protective effect on the liver, preserving the cells of this organ from damage. In general, milk thistle herb is used in the treatment of diseases of the skin and internal organs.

Oil prepared from this plant has an anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effect., it promotes the healing of wounds and ulcers, reduces pain, activates the immune system, and even protects against radiation.

They treat:

For women

Gynecological diseases that can be treated with milk thistle include cervical erosion and vaginitis.

Plant will save you from a pathological decrease in blood pressure due to menopause.

For men

Milk Thistle Plant Supports Reproductive Function in men.

For children

Thistle for treating children not used.

During pregnancy

Milk thistle remedies can be used to relieve symptoms of toxicosis during pregnancy.

Before trying traditional medicine recipes, you should consult a specialist.

The program “About the Most Important Thing” tells about the benefits of milk thistle herb and its seeds for the body, especially for the human liver:

How to take thistle

It is used externally to accelerate wound healing, treat ulcers and burns. Can be used internally to relieve constipation and in the treatment of dysbacteriosis.

Pine nut oil, its beneficial properties and applications are in our other publication.

Use in cooking

Fresh leaves

Fresh milk thistle leaves can be added to salad, but cut off the sharp thorns. The leaves will enrich the taste and add beneficial properties to the dish.

To enhance the medicinal qualities of the plant, milk thistle herb can be combined with woodlice and yarrow, but you need to watch out for contraindications to other components of the composition.

Young shoots of the plant can be used in the same way.. To remove bitterness from the leaves, they are soaked in water for 5-10 hours.

Roots and flowers

Thistle roots can be eaten raw, boiled or fried. Dried milk thistle flowers are an excellent seasoning that will add an original taste to dishes.

When fresh, they can be cooked like artichokes - boiled or stewed.

Tea

You can also make tea from thistle. To do this, pour dried milk thistle leaves or powder with boiling water at the rate of 1 cup per 1 teaspoon of herb, leave to brew for half an hour.

The drink can be consumed three times a day for people suffering from varicose veins and other pathologies.

Thistle oil can be poured over salads or any other ready meals.

The product will also give food a special taste, enrich it with microelements, vitamins, and other beneficial substances.

Potential health hazards

Like all herbal remedies, Thistle preparations may cause allergic reactions. Most often they manifest themselves as skin rash and itching, diarrhea or constipation, and abdominal pain.

If they appear, you should immediately stop using milk thistle infusions, decoctions and oils.

Reactions of individual intolerance and hypersensitivity are quite rare.

Main contraindications for milk thistle treatment:

• mental disorders;
• severe depressive states;
• epilepsy.

For cardiovascular diseases, shortness of breath Thistle-based products should be used with caution, since this plant contains more and, the use of which can aggravate existing problems.

, bronchial asthma, elevated levels Milk thistle consumption is allowed only under the supervision of a doctor.

During pregnancy, in childhood Thistle-based products can only be used after consulting a doctor.

Do you know

Milk thistle oil is an excellent skin care product. Suitable for restoring dry, fading skin: the product moisturizes, nourishes, relieves dryness, increases turgor, makes it firm, elastic, improves color, evens out tone.

Thistle oil effectively eliminates inflammation, irritation, peeling.

Thanks to its regular use, the skin becomes healthier and more beautiful.

For hair

Milk thistle oil also perfectly strengthens hair., preventing their loss, promotes rapid growth.

They become strong and healthy, acquire radiance and elasticity, and look impressive.

To achieve this, It is enough to use the product 2 or 3 times a week. The product can be applied to the scalp or made into hair masks, leaving them on for 15-20 minutes or more.

For weight loss

Using remedies made from thistle, you can lose extra pounds. Infusions and decoctions of milk thistle help in losing weight, but healthy oil made from this plant is more often used.

1 large spoon of this remedy is taken 2 times a day 25 minutes before meals. To get good results, thistle oil must be used for a long time.

There are many different ways to use milk thistle.. Medicines prepared from this plant are used to treat diseases of the liver and biliary tract, but the medicinal properties of milk thistle are useful for many other diseases of internal organs and skin.

As a natural remedy milk thistle has minimal contraindications and maximum medicinal properties.

When used correctly, thistle will help cure diseases and maintain health for a long time.

In contact with

The herbaceous plant milk thistle, or as it is also called - marin thistle, is found almost throughout the entire territory of the CIS countries. Its beneficial properties have long been known among traditional medicine healers, and it is officially recognized by traditional medicine as a unique remedy for the treatment of liver and gall bladder diseases.

Chemical composition

The chemical composition of milk thistle is truly unique. Especially, it is necessary to highlight the presence of flavolignans in its seeds. These substances are hepatoprotectors that can improve metabolic processes in the liver, protect against irritating factors and promote rapid restoration of functions in case of damage, including after diseases of various etiologies.

Silybin is isolated from the flavolignans present in milk thistle. It is the one that has antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. It helps the rapid processing of protein in the liver, prevents cell destruction and removes heavy metals and radionuclides.

Another isolated flavolignan is silymarin. It is extremely rare in nature. Research has proven its effectiveness against the occurrence and spread of cancer cells. It is capable of inhibiting and even eliminating the penetration of heavy poisons into cells.

The seed oil of this plant contains a large amount of polyunsaturated fatty acids. These include oleic, linoleic, linolenic and arachidonic. After squeezing milk thistle oil, what remains is cake, or in other words, meal, which is very important for the production of medicines, as it contains vitamins B, E, K and carotenoids. Contains macro and micro elements, including almost the entire periodic table, and flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, resins, histamine, thiamine, fiber, essential oils and resins.

The use of milk thistle in various forms is recommended by specialists in both traditional and alternative medicine, since the components contained in the plant have a beneficial effect on the body and help with serious diseases.

Milk thistle oil is used for mechanical and allergic damage to the skin. It is prescribed for severe external purulent infections and bedsores. It is recommended to take it for problems with the gastrointestinal tract and diseases of the liver and gallbladder.

In composition, milk thistle oil is close to the chemical composition of sunflower oil. It is used to produce creams and other cosmetics with a moisturizing, healing and regenerative effect.

The plant meal contains a huge amount of fiber. It is used as a cleanser for problems with the gastrointestinal tract, as well as for problems with the cardiovascular system, since it is the high concentration of polyunsaturated fatty acids that affects lipid metabolism. Meal removes toxins and “bad” cholesterol. Has a beneficial effect on all metabolic processes.

Milk thistle in any dosage form used is capable of:

• Improve metabolism;
• Help in the restoration and regeneration of liver cells;
• Normalize the functioning of the gallbladder, facilitates the outflow of bile;
• Improve the digestive system and eliminate gastrointestinal diseases;
• Strengthen the walls of blood vessels and;
• Remove radionuclides and heavy metals;
• Prevent the development and spread of cancer;
• Improve digestion and help in the fight against excess weight;
• Normalize sugar levels and other manifestations of diabetes;
• and strengthen blood vessels;
• Eliminate skin diseases.

Traditional medicine recognized milk thistle as an effective medicinal plant in the 1970s. Extensive research has been carried out, which has led to the creation of several preparations based on milk thistle. Basically, official drugs are aimed at treating pathologies of the liver, gallbladder and gastrointestinal tract. Popular drugs include: “Legalon”, “Leprotek”, “Geparsil”, “Silibor”, “Siliverin”, “Silimarol” and others - they are used for diseases, both chronic and infectious. They are included in complex therapy in the treatment of alcohol and drug addictions.

In 2002, WHO included milk thistle meal in the list of official hepatoprotective drugs.

Due to its choleretic effect, milk thistle remedies are recommended for cholecystitis, gallstones and inflammation of the spleen. Also used for problems of the genitourinary system - eliminates inflammation, infections, removes stones and sand from the kidneys.

Milk thistle preparation in the form of injections it is used as an antidote. It is capable of destroying deadly poisons and neutralizing the toxic effects or consequences of poisoning. Based on these properties, the plant is recommended to be taken by patients with cancer problems and, in particular, those who have undergone chemotherapy to eliminate its negative effects.

Dermatologists prescribe ointments and creams based on milk thistle, for dermatoses of various etiologies, acne and lichen. Reduces the manifestations of vitiligo and helps with allergic rashes. Eliminates inflammation, itching, softens and promotes skin regeneration.

Milk thistle comes in different forms. In the form of tablets and capsules, phyto-collection, powder (meal), tea, tincture, syrup, injections. May be included in other medications. Seeds are sold separately.

ethnoscience uses this plant much more widely. Decoctions, infusions and alcohol tinctures, teas, etc. are made from it. All parts of the plant are used, including leaves and roots.

The plant is used for such ailments as:

• Diseases of the musculoskeletal system and salt deposition;
• Diseases of the hematopoietic system (for example, anemia);
• Gastrointestinal problems;
• Problems of the liver, gall bladder and spleen;
• Convulsions;
• Infections and inflammations of the genitourinary system;
• Diabetes;
• Fractures and injuries (as a quickly healing and regenerative agent);
• Varicose veins;
• Diseases of the oral cavity (stomatitis, gingivitis, periodontitis, etc.);
• acute respiratory infections and acute respiratory viral infections, etc.

Milk thistle meal is a yellow-brown husk remaining after processing the seeds and cake when extracting the oil by extraction. That is, high temperatures and organic solvents are used to process the remaining cake, after which the cake remains. It contains a huge amount of fiber, flavolignans, oil residues (up to 3%), macro and microelements.

The release form is a bag of powder, which can be purchased at any pharmacy. It is used in the treatment of diseases as a dietary supplement, as well as in cooking as a food additive, and in cosmetology as a peeling.

Oil

Milk thistle oil is extracted by cold pressing and the resulting products are used for the production of encapsulated drugs, and by extraction during the secondary processing of cake. The oil obtained in this way is already sent to pharmacies and stores in the form we are familiar with.

As already mentioned, milk thistle oil has a strengthening and regenerating effect on liver cells. Eliminates toxic elements and substances entering the body. Activates metabolic processes, helps in the fight against excess weight, has a positive effect on reproductive function, etc.

The oil has the following properties:

• Hemostatic;
• Hepatoprotective;
• Antitoxic;
• Antioxidant;
• Anti-inflammatory;
• Antiseptic.

Extracts

Medicines are made from dry extract of milk thistle. It is obtained from the fruits of the plant, extracted with 80% ethyl alcohol. Then it is evaporated to a thick mass, fatty oils are removed using a chemical solution of carbon tetrachloride, evaporated to a dry residue and an extract is obtained. At home, it can be consumed in the form of tea, decoction, juice, tincture and powder.

To prepare milk thistle tea, you need 1 tsp. seeds, pour 250 ml of boiling water and leave for 5-10 minutes. Tea can be mixed with any other medicinal herbs.

For alcohol tincture You will need a freshly harvested plant. It should be crushed and filled with vodka in a ratio of 1:5. Infuse and store in a cool, dark place, covered. For each specific disease, prescriptions usually indicate the number of days for the medicine to infuse. It can vary from several days to several months. After the medicine has infused, it is filtered.

To obtain juice, take fresh leaves of the plant and put it through a juicer. If this is not possible, then grind it through a meat grinder or grind it with a blender and squeeze it through several layers of gauze. The juice should be stored in the refrigerator for several days. Some recipes recommend adding 25 ml of alcohol per 500 ml of juice.

Decoctions prepared from seeds and rhizomes. To make a decoction of seeds, grind 30 grams of seeds into powder and pour 0.5 liters of boiling water. In a water bath, evaporate the water by half and strain.

For a decoction of rhizomes, take 1 tbsp. raw materials and pour 250 ml of boiling water. Evaporate half the water in a water bath and filter. Then add water to the initial volume.

Powder obtained by grinding the seeds of the plant in a blender or any other way. Also, they are consumed without processing. Usually no more than 2 tbsp. in a day.

Milk thistle recipes

Milk thistle is not only used to treat diseases, but is also applicable in other areas. It is used in cooking, flour is made from it and meal is used to prepare various dishes. They also make very tasty honey from milk thistle. In cosmetology, various cosmetics are produced on its basis and used in aromatherapy.

There are a huge number of recipes for using milk thistle, but, of course, they are all associated with its unique medicinal properties. The list of diseases for which the plant is used in various forms is incredibly large. Can be used both externally and internally. There are several interesting and simple recipes that everyone can use:

• If you are going to a party where you will drink alcohol, then before going out you can drink 1 tbsp. milk thistle meal, which will eliminate the negative effects of alcohol;
• To improve metabolism, take 1 tsp of meal half an hour before breakfast;
• To improve liver function and cleanse the blood, take 1 tsp of meal before bed;
• You can eat salads with the addition of fresh milk thistle leaves, previously treated to remove thorns. This salad will improve the gastrointestinal tract and the functioning of the pancreas;
• Baths with the addition of a decoction of the plant improve the quality of the skin, relieve inflammation and vitaminize the dermis.

In case of intoxication

Milk thistle helps well with intoxications of various etiologies. It is prescribed in complex therapy for alcohol and drug addiction, poisoning with medicines or food. Acts as an antidote even for severe poisoning, for example, toadstool. With caution, the doctor may prescribe it to a pregnant woman with severe toxicosis. As a preventive measure, milk thistle is drunk by people involved in chemical and radioactive production, as well as those living in environmentally contaminated areas.

For preventive cleansing the body of toxins use the following recipe: for 0.5 tbsp. kefir dissolve 1 tbsp. meal and drink in the morning every day half an hour before meals. The course is 1 month.

For mushroom poisoning you need to take powder from crushed seeds in a coffee grinder or meal, 1 tsp. 5 times a day until complete recovery. If the poisoning is severe, then you should take 1 des.l. 7-8 times.

For liver diseases

Today, milk thistle is the most effective natural preparation for cleansing and restoring liver function. Moreover, it is used for serious severe diseases such as cirrhosis, hepatitis of any degree, as well as chronic pathologies.

Recipe for liver restoration simple: you need to take milk thistle powder from crushed seeds, 1 tsp. half an hour before meals 3 p. in a day. The fourth dose should be taken between 1 and 3 am and washed down with burdock decoction, since at this time the liver works most actively. The result will be noticeable within a few days.

You can refer to a recipe made from milk thistle and pumpkin seed oils: for this you need to mix 200 ml of plant oil, 100 ml of pumpkin seed oil and 5 drops of essential peppermint oil. Drink 3 times a day, 1 dessert spoon 30 minutes before meals. The course lasts 1 month.

For diabetes

Milk thistle contains some trace elements that can regulate the production of the hormone insulin by the pancreas, which is involved in the breakdown and regulation of blood sugar. Studies have proven that this plant affects not only the functioning of the pancreas, but also the liver, helping with diabetes in the early stages.

The fact is that the liver produces leukogen - the substance is converted into glucose, and milk thistle regulates the balance between the work of insulin, the production of leukogen and the energy exchange of fats, proteins and carbohydrates. The oil of this plant is used for diabetes as a natural sweetener. When consumed, blood sugar levels drop significantly. Of course, milk thistle is not a panacea for diabetes, but it can significantly make life easier for patients or prevent this disease.

For the prevention of diabetes mellitus you will need: 2 tbsp. Grind the seeds of the plant into flour and take 1 des.l. four times a day half an hour before meals. The course is 1 month. After completing it, a break of two weeks is required and then another course follows.

For skin diseases

Externally, milk thistle is used for a number of skin diseases, including allergic rashes, acne, burns and frostbite, wounds and other damage to the dermis. Moreover, the plant perfectly fights infections and eliminates inflammatory processes, including purulent ones.

For burns and purulent wounds Compresses are usually used. To do this, treat the area of ​​skin damage with an antiseptic drug and then apply a gauze compress soaked in milk thistle oil. Keep the compress under a bandage for 1-2 days. Carry out treatment until complete healing.

For mild mechanical damage to the skin Use fresh leaves of the plant. To do this, you need to cut off the thorns from the leaves, grind them into pulp, roll them into a gauze compress and apply them to the wound. Usually, wounds heal on the second or third day.

For allergic rash The following milk thistle medicine helps:

• 3 tbsp. l. crushed plant seeds;
• 3 glasses of hot water;
• Pour in and cook until the water boils by 50%;
• Strain and drink 1 tbsp. l. each hour.

For weight loss

Excess weight problems arise for many reasons. Among them are accumulated toxins in the liver, diabetes, unhealthy and sedentary lifestyle, which leads to metabolic disorders, etc.

Milk thistle is used as a multi-purpose weight loss remedy. Its advantages are that it acts as an enterosorbent, cleansing the body of toxins, improves and accelerates metabolism, does not cause allergic reactions, and regulates the gastrointestinal tract.

In an integrated approach to the fight against excess weight, milk thistle meal and oil are consumed. Meal, cleansing the kidneys and liver of radionuclides and heavy metals and having a diuretic and laxative effect, is an excellent way to get rid of extra pounds. The result can be observed both after two weeks of taking the meal and after several months. It all depends on body weight and individual characteristics of the absorption of this product. Usually take 1 tsp. powder 3 times a day.

Milk thistle oil removes cholesterol plaques, stimulates fat metabolism, which has a positive effect on weight loss. Take 1 tbsp. 2 times a day 30 minutes before meals and wash down with 150 ml of warm water. You can replace oil in salads with it, which is also effective.

You can also turn to milk thistle tea. For this you need 1 tsp. seeds pour 250 ml of boiling water. Leave for half an hour and strain. Drink hot in small sips of half a glass twice a day. You can add mint or linden to this tea.

Application in cosmetology

Milk thistle is widely used in cosmetology. Based on its oil extract, skin and hair care products are made, as it contains a complex of vitamins and minerals.

Such funds can act as follows:

• Relieve inflammation;
• Accelerate the wound healing process;
• Moisturize the skin and smooth out wrinkles;
• Improve complexion and get rid of age spots;
• Reduce exposure to ultraviolet rays.

Milk thistle products for cosmetic purposes are suitable for any skin type and do not have allergic reactions, with the exception of individual intolerance.

Milk thistle oil is rich in “beauty vitamins” E, A, D, F, K:

• A - improves the quality of the skin, giving it firmness and elasticity;
• E - moisturizes the skin;
• F - promotes cell regeneration and tightens pores;
• D - accelerates the absorption of calcium and magnesium, improves complexion;
• K - normalizes blood circulation and acts as an anti-inflammatory.

Nowadays, many cosmetic products based on milk thistle are produced, and it is quite affordable. But, you can use the oil extract yourself at home, either in its pure form or by mixing it with any other oils. It is used to make homemade cosmetics, creams, tonics, lotions, masks and applications.

To prepare face mask you should mix 2 tbsp. milk thistle oil and 1 tbsp. black cumin oil extract. Moisten a gauze pad and apply it to your face for half an hour. This mask eliminates inflammation, irritation and rashes. Helps well with acne. Can be used twice a day.

Milk thistle to get rid of age spots used like this: follow 4 tbsp. milk thistle oil extract mixed with 1 tsp. tea tree oil. Apply the resulting mixture to problem areas 2 times a day. The result will be visible in two weeks. During this period, it is not advisable to be in the sun.

Milk thistle oil extract is very effective for hair, as it moisturizes, nourishes and gives a healthy shine. Strengthens hair follicles and prevents premature hair loss.

The oil can be purchased at any pharmacy and used in its pure form or prepared from it universal firming mask. For this you need 3 tbsp. mix base oil with 0.5 tsp. tea tree oil extract. Heat in a water bath and apply for half an hour along the entire length of the hair, including the scalp. Wash off with shampoo.

Contraindications and harm

Milk thistle, like any medicinal plant and all medicinal forms obtained from it, have their contraindications. In any case, you should always consult your doctor.

Contraindications include:

• The presence of mental illnesses and disorders associated with the nervous system;
• For chronic exacerbations of any disease;
• The presence of increased concentrations of phosphorus and calcium;
• Perinatal period and lactation period;
• Children under 3 years old.

When many people hear the word “milk thistle,” they don’t even always understand what they are talking about. Meanwhile, this is a very useful plant, the unique composition of which makes it very valuable for human health. Why not learn more about the benefits of milk thistle and its wonderful properties for the treatment and prevention of various diseases? Everything you need to know is collected in this article.

Milk thistle is popularly known under such names as “thistle”, “burdock” or “tartar”. It is a plant with spiny leaves and fuzzy soft purple flowers that grows everywhere like a weed. Children usually like to play with burdock seed heads, catching them on their clothes and even on their hair.

Milk thistle seeds are mainly considered medicinal. Scientists have identified more than 200 different substances in their composition, each with its own individual effect. In combination with each other, they form a whole complex for fortifying the body, as well as its healing and cleansing. What kind of substances are these?

Silymarin

This is the collective name for a group of flavolignans that:

• promote the destruction of free radicals;
• have an antitoxic effect on the entire body;
• act as antihistamines;
• are a hepaprotector for the liver.

Milk thistle fruits contain up to 3% silymarin; it is also found in its leaves, stems and roots.

Vitamins

Milk thistle contains many vitamins that our body cannot do without:

• - retinol;
• - tocopherol;
• - ascorbic acid.

Milk thistle also contains other vitamins, the beneficial effects of which are determined by their interaction with each other.

Minerals

The mineral composition of milk thistle is very rich, it includes:

• copper;
• manganese.

The correct ratio of microelements in the body ensures its healthy functioning.

Other substances

Among the many active substances contained in milk thistle are:

• lignans;
• flavonoids;
• organic acids;
• essential oils;
• saponins;
• proteins;
• fixed oils;
• resins;
• mucus.

Each of the substances listed is essential for humans; we need all of them in a certain quantity.

About the beneficial properties of milk thistle

Considering the content of useful substances in various parts of the burdock, we can sum it up by summarizing its beneficial properties for the body. Milk thistle is capable of:

• restore damaged liver cells;
• relieve inflammation;
• heal wounds;
• remove toxins;
• strengthen the immune barrier;
• reduce sensitivity to allergens;
• prevent fluid retention;
• have a mild laxative effect;
• inhibit the action of cancer cells;
• slow down the aging process;
• cleanse the skin of rashes;
• strengthen the strength of blood vessels;
• increase lactation in mothers.

It is already clear that it is worth learning more about milk thistle, because its benefits are obvious in theory. It remains to personally try it in practice.

Fight diseases with milk thistle

The tendency to illness makes people look for a cure in everything that surrounds them. So in milk thistle, first of all, people see a remedy for various diseases. Who can ordinary thistle cure? Below is the list:

1. Food poisoning (including mushrooms, alcohol), toxicosis in women, intoxication of the body due to ingestion of toxic substances (drugs, heavy metals, poisons due to insect bites). Milk thistle can literally suck in everything harmful, like a vacuum cleaner, and remove it from the body. Burdock will also help avoid the consequences of unfavorable environmental conditions.
2. Liver diseases - hepatitis, cirrhosis, traumatic injuries, organ degeneration. The liver controls metabolism in the body. This function is disrupted when its cells die. Milk thistle functions as a hepaprotector, that is, it stimulates the formation of new cells, thereby seeming to build up the missing parts of the liver.
3. Obesity, diabetes. Milk thistle allows you to lose weight due to its cleansing function, as well as its ability to improve metabolic processes and restore hormonal balance. In diabetes, it lowers blood glucose levels.
4. Recovery period after cancer treatment. In this case, the cleansing effect of milk thistle is simply necessary to remove radioactive products after irradiation and chemistry.
5. Skin diseases - dermatitis, psoriasis, alopecia, acne, vitiligo, cosmetic problems. Most of these conditions are caused primarily by a decrease in immunity - local or general. Preparations made from burdock have a general strengthening effect, remove inflammation, cleanse and tighten the skin, rejuvenating it.
6. Secondary diseases that develop as a result of blood poisoning with toxic substances are arthritis, arthrosis, gastrointestinal diseases, cardiovascular pathologies. By cleansing the blood, milk thistle blocks the development of these diseases.

Milk thistle should not be considered as a miracle cure for all ills, but it has a good healing effect, so it can be used as an auxiliary treatment.

Milk thistle uses

The beneficial properties of milk thistle, identified during its medical research, prompted pharmaceutical companies to begin its industrial production. Today, there are three known pharmaceutical forms in which burdock is produced - milk thistle meal, oil and extract.

Meal, or milk thistle flour- This is the product obtained after grinding its seeds. It is a natural dietary supplement that can be used by people of all ages. The supplement is taken three times a day before meals, 1 teaspoon, and washed down with plenty of water. Feedback from patients and doctors who observed them allowed us to formulate an optimal regimen for taking the drug - the course lasts 40 days, then a 20-day break, then repeats again for 40 days. There can be no more than 4 such courses per year.

You can prepare an alcohol tincture from the meal. To do this, pour 50 grams of milk thistle powder into 0.5 liters of vodka and let it brew. It will work out milk thistle extract alcohol based. You need to take 20 drops of tincture before meals. Children can prepare milk thistle extract in water, but it has a much shorter shelf life, so you will need to prepare it fresh each time. The pharmacy has a ready-made extract in tablet form.

Milk thistle oil used mainly in cosmetology. The active components of the oil determine its therapeutic effect. The oil can be applied to the skin, added to dishes, or taken orally in capsule form. If you take pure oil internally, then this should be done three times a day, 5 ml, always before meals for better absorption. The course is 3-4 weeks, followed by a 1-2 week break, then can be repeated.

A rather tall plant that has large purple or lilac inflorescences ( I'll milk thistle), today can often be seen in vacant lots, along roads or on railroad tracks. Gardeners and vegetable gardeners hate this grass because it often “chokes out” useful plants and even small shrubs.

Medicinal properties of milk thistle few people know, but, nevertheless, it should be noted that its seeds, inflorescences and leaves help fight with liver diseases.

This plant was known as a medicinal product back in Ancient Egypt and Greece. For the first time, milk thistle was mentioned in their treatises by such famous healers and scientists of antiquity as Galena and Dioscorides.

Today, this plant is used in folk and official medicine in many countries around the world, including Russia. Milk thistle gained enormous popularity in the 60s of the last century, when comprehensive studies of its properties began.

As a rule, only milk thistle seeds, from which oils, flour or meal are created. But for treatment you can also use tinctures of flowers or leaves.

Various parts of milk thistle are actively used in pharmacology and nutrition. For example, the plant is great for weight loss.

Milk thistle herb: its properties and uses

It can be classified as a member of the Asteraceae family. Milk thistle is also often called spotted thistle. The medicinal uses of milk thistle vary, but most commonly it is used to treat diseases of the stomach, liver, or intestines.

The plant is one- or two-year-old. Its height is quite large, sometimes it can even reach two meters, although most often it does not exceed 150 cm. The stem of milk thistle is erect, quite branched, the leaves can be dark green or light green with frequent pearlescent spots ( depending on the location of germination). You can see yellow spines on the leaves of milk thistle.

The inflorescences resemble small baskets of lilac or purple hue. They can reach 6 cm in diameter. After the flower ripens, fruits are formed in a grayish achene, around which spiny leaves also grow. It ends with the so-called “tuft”, which can be twice the size of the achene itself. The seeds have no smell, but they taste bitter.

The plant grows throughout Southern and Central Europe and in the center of Asia. The seeds are the most valuable for medicine, although people have learned to use milk thistle for the most unusual purposes. There is, for example, milk thistle honey.

Seeds usually begin to be collected in August and end in October. In order not to make a mistake with the ripening time, you need to pay attention to the fluff in the achene, which becomes whitish. If you need plant roots, which are also actively used in medicine, then they need to be dug up in the autumn.

Photo of milk thistle:

Milk thistle contains many different vitamins, microelements and other important substances. The most basic of them are:

• Silymarin is a substance that is very difficult to find in nature. It helps treat the membrane that envelops the cells of the human body. It also increases the production of bile, improves the process of cell formation, and neutralizes the effect of poisons.
• Various oils help improve cell and tissue regeneration, relieve inflammation, and improve wound healing processes.
• Essential oil – helps normalize the functioning of the central nervous system, increase the secretion of glands in the body, and enhance motor skills.
• Various resins– with their help, wounds are disinfected, the body’s overall defense is increased, and bacteria and germs are neutralized faster.
• Mucus – eliminates the source of inflammation, accelerates healing, and removes phlegm.
• Lignans help speed up oxygen metabolism, remove toxins from the body, and reduce the amount of cholesterol in the blood.
• Flavonoids - with their help you can strengthen capillaries, normalize blood pressure, and stimulate the adrenal glands.
• Saponins – improve the synthesis of corticosteroids in the body, regulate salt and water metabolism, relieve the inflammatory process.
• Organic acids– improve appetite, help in the breakdown of fats, strengthen the immune system.
• Alkaloids – normalize blood circulation and reduce pain.
• Proteins help the body provide itself with antibodies, enzymes and hormones, improve hormonal balance, and take part in the transport of hemoglobin.
• Vitamins (B, K, C, E)– add energy to muscles, help reduce the concentration of uric acid in the blood, help with metabolic processes in tissues, strengthen capillaries.
• Selenium – treats the liver, normalizes the functioning of the thyroid gland, accelerates healing.

Take milk thistle can be in the form of tinctures, decoctions, tea, powders, tablets, syrups, in addition, it is often added to other medicines. If you see that a medicine contains milk thistle, instructions for use will tell you how to take it correctly.

When taking seeds, they must be ground before consumption. The daily norm is 20 grams. note that Milk thistle seeds should be taken before meals. It is necessary to distribute the daily dose throughout the day.

If you want to know how to take milk thistle powder for liver, then you can make such an infusion in the evening, just fill it with water. Remember to use boiled hot water. Here, too, you should only consume 20 grams of powder. This infusion is taken half an hour before meals to cleanse your body.

How to take milk thistle seeds? Video:

Useful properties and contraindications of milk thistle

Speaking about the advantages of this plant, it is worth immediately noting that it is excellent for people who suffer from liver diseases. But today milk thistle is used in almost all areas of medicine, which only increases its benefits.

The most common area where this plant can be used is, of course, hepatology. Powders, oils, infusions and other medications are taken by people with hepatitis C, dystrophy, and cirrhosis of the liver. In addition, milk thistle helps with chronic poisoning from drugs, alcohol, food, and medications; it is often prescribed to pregnant women if they suffer from severe toxicosis.

An interesting fact is that milk thistle is perhaps the only remedy that will help a person who has been poisoned by toadstool to survive.

Milk thistle is actively used to strengthen the cardiovascular system, especially capillaries. It is used after radiation and chemical therapy, as it helps remove toxins, radionuclides, radiation and heavy metals from the body.

Milk thistle extract helps to get rid of excess weight, in addition, it removes sugar from the blood, so it is actively used by patients with diabetes. Due to the fact that the plant contains vitamin E, it can be used in dermatology. It helps get rid of acne and baldness. Milk thistle oil in capsules is actively used in cosmetology.

The main feature of this plant is its antioxidant properties. This is an action that helps create high resistance to the oxidative process that negatively affects the functioning of the liver.

We are talking about reactive oxygen species that can damage one of the most important human organs.

Over the past few decades, scientists have been trying to fully understand exactly how oxidative processes affect the liver. It is normal for cells to produce oxygen, but this may increase if the body is affected by drugs or alcohol. When the liver becomes inflamed, oxygen is produced by the inflamed cells, which can cause the death of a large number of cells.

Milk thistle for liver cleansing, video:

Silymarin, as well as flavonoids, which are found in milk thistle, help slow down the oxidation process, which has a positive effect on liver function.

Among other things, flavonoids also have excellent immunomodulatory properties. Therefore, if milk thistle-based drugs are taken for at least six months, you can see a significant decrease in the activity of cytotoxic lymphocytes that are formed during alcohol intoxication.

Of course, despite all the positive aspects, it is necessary to use milk thistle-based products under the strict supervision of doctors.

This is explained plenty of phosphorus and calcium, which if taken incorrectly can cause negative effects in the body.

If you suffer from cardiovascular diseases, then take milk thistle stands with caution. This plant is contraindicated in the following cases:

• If a person has individual intolerance, which can be found very rarely.
• Epilepsy and other mental disorders.
• Acute cholecystitis, liver failure, pancreatitis, cirrhosis of the liver, asthma.
• Shortness of breath.

Pregnant women and nursing mothers should only consume milk thistle under the supervision of their physician.

When taking the plant, side effects may occur: pain in the liver, diarrhea. If they persist for more than two days, then the medications should be discontinued.

Milk thistle oil: features and methods of use

The oil created from this plant has wound-healing, hepatoprotective and anti-burn properties. It is often compared to, although the former has many more positive characteristics.

This product is used for diabetes, psoriasis, eczema, liver disease or allergies. If you don't know how to take milk thistle oil, then the following information will be useful to you.

Take 5 teaspoons of ground milk thistle seeds and pour 500 ml of olive or any other oil over them. Boil the resulting mixture in a water bath for about a quarter of an hour. Next, you need to leave the oil for half an hour and strain.

It is worth taking one teaspoon three times a day.

You can also buy ready-made oil at any pharmacy.

Milk thistle oil: benefits and harms

As mentioned above, milk thistle is a practically harmless product. Allergies or individual intolerance to the oil from this plant are very rare.

Milk thistle is an indispensable product for the liver, therefore, if you suffer from any diseases associated with this organ, then you should definitely purchase or make your own oil from this plant.

In addition, it can significantly strengthen the human immune system, improve the digestion process, raise the tone of the whole body, and improve metabolism. Those who want to lose weight and get their body in order should definitely have such an oil in their arsenal.

It can be found in many medications. It can be found especially often in complex treatment of cirrhosis. Please note that it can be taken without problems as a supplement to basic medications.

Milk thistle meal: features and methods of use

Meal is the name given to the seeds of a plant. (in this case, milk thistle), which are ground to obtain a powdery mass. The main feature of this powder is the fact that it is cold pressed, thanks to which vegetable oil is obtained from the seeds.

Fiber, which is contained in milk thistle meal, has an excellent effect on the intestines, cleansing it. In addition, this drug helps to normalize the functioning of the body, thanks to vitamins and biologically active elements. Liver cleansing with milk thistle It will go quickly and without problems if you use meal.

Milk thistle meal has many beneficial properties. Among them are:

• The ability to regulate fat metabolism, regulate the functioning of the central nervous system, organs of vision and skin.
• Improving intestinal motility.
• Restoration, improvement and strengthening of the liver.
• Establishment of the body's defenses against unfavorable environmental factors.
• Improved bile flow.
• Bringing blood pressure back to normal.
• Improving metabolism in the body.
• Removal of radionuclides, waste and toxins.
• Reduces glucose to normal levels.
• Improving kidney function.

Milk thistle for the liver is a real miracle cure, especially if used in the form of meal. If you want to use this plant for medicinal purposes, you must remember that the meal can be used in the amount of 1 teaspoon three times a day. However, remember that it can be used no earlier and no later than half an hour before meals.

You can only drink it with warm water so that the meal has a positive effect on intestinal function. The course should be continued for at least 40 days. After this, you can take a two-week break, and then resume the forty-day course. The frequency of continuations is determined only by the doctor.

For prevention apply meal also possible. But here one teaspoon is taken only once a day, on an empty stomach. The preventive course is established by the doctor, taking into account the individual characteristics of each organism. As a rule, such a course can last from twenty to forty days.

It is also interesting that Milk thistle meal Even children can safely take it ( starting from 3 years), but their use should only be prescribed by a doctor.

Milk thistle meal: benefits and harms

No side effects were observed when consuming the meal of this plant. Although some people complained of mild pain in the liver area. If you are going to take Milk thistle meal, indications and contraindications for use definitely needs to be studied.

So, for example, you cannot immediately take a large dose if the patient has kidney or gallstones. It is best to use the drug gradually and under the strict supervision of your doctor.

Pregnant and lactating women should also use this product with caution. It is not recommended to take it if you have an individual intolerance to the plant.

Other medicines with milk thistle

The best milk thistle-based liver cleanser is tincture. Among other things, such a medical preparation, which you can easily make yourself at home, will help to better remove bile from the body, eliminate unpleasant pain in the joints, and reduce pain in the liver.

Many people suffering from skin problems, dermatitis, psoriasis, acne, can use special tinctures with this medicinal plant.

Interestingly, such products do not need to be wiped or cleansed. The tincture is taken orally, helping to cope with many problems at the same time.

Decoctions are also made from milk thistle, which help not only with diseases of the liver and pancreas, but also of the kidneys. Some people prefer to use juices, extracts, herbal teas or syrups. The latter can be purchased without problems in pharmacies. Often such drugs are intended for the treatment of hemorrhoids, colitis, heart and respiratory tract diseases.

Folk recipes with milk thistle

Today on the Internet you can find a huge number of different recipes with this plant, the reviews of which are quite positive. Even eating regular milk thistle seeds will already help you significantly improve your condition, cleanse your liver, pancreas, and kidneys.

Patients with hepatitis can eat one tablespoon of seeds ( necessarily sprouted) to help your body cope with the disease faster.

The interesting thing is that you can germinate the seeds yourself at home. But note that milk thistle sprouts take longer to grow than.

Meal can be made by grinding the grains into a powdery mass ( use a coffee grinder for this). Typically, it is used to improve liver health.

To prepare, you need to grind the seeds of the plant into powder, take 30 grams of this powder and pour it into half a liter of water. Simmer over low heat until half the liquid has evaporated. Drink one tablespoon every hour during the day for three weeks, then take a break ( for two weeks). If liver diseases recur, you can repeat the course again.

If you need to cook milk thistle tincture with alcohol, then you need to take 50 grams of powder ( meal) plants, add to 0.5 liters of vodka. The tincture should be infused for about two weeks. Please note that it needs to be stirred or shaken from time to time. The course of administration consists of 25 drops of tincture, which should be taken half an hour before meals 4-5 times a day.

Milk thistle tea can be freely purchased at any pharmacy, but if you do not trust such drugs, you can prepare your own. It can be prepared from the powder of the plant or from its leaves.

Take one teaspoon of dry leaves ( or meal), pour boiling water over it and let it brew for about half an hour. Then the drink should be strained.

Consume hot, best three times a day: in the morning ( on an empty stomach), during the day ( before lunch) and in the evening ( before bedtime). This drink is great for combating varicose veins.

To prepare the juice, you need to stock up on a sufficiently large amount of fresh milk thistle leaves. As a rule, they are plucked before the plant blooms.

The juice must be fixed with alcohol. The ratio should be 1 liter of juice per 50 ml of alcohol ( 70%) . The drink should be stored in the refrigerator.

You can also prepare an infusion. To do this, take one teaspoon of dry herbs or seeds, pour boiling water, leave for about 20 minutes, and then strain. The infusion should be taken orally in small sips three times a day. It is best to develop the following scheme for yourself: half a glass of infusion before breakfast, a quarter before lunch and a quarter before dinner.

Medicinal (pharmacy) preparations with milk thistle

Milk thistle is actively used by manufacturers of various tablets, oils, teas and other similar products. Today in the pharmacy you can buy a lot of different medicines, which are based on this interesting plant. If we talk about the most popular means, it is worth mentioning:

1. Gepabene is a hepatoprotector, which includes milk thistle as one of the main elements. There is also an extract of the fume herb, which helps normalize the amount of bile secreted, relieve spasms of the gallbladder, and ease the functioning of the liver.
2. Sibektan is another popular hepatoproctor based on milk thistle extract. It is not only an antioxidant and choleretic drug, but also helps relieve spasms and stimulate protein synthesis.
3. Silimar is a modern hepatoprotector, which is also a membrane stabilizer, choleretic and antioxidant. Milk thistle in Silymar tablets is the main component, but you can also find other plants here that have a positive effect on the liver and gallbladder.

Some drugs can be actively taken even for the purpose of prevention.

Milk thistle has repeatedly shown a positive effect on the health and beauty of the skin, so if you want to improve your appearance, you need to purchase oil from this plant at the pharmacy or make it yourself.

Please note that before taking any herbal remedy It is best to consult a doctor.

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Many people have heard at least once in their lives about something as amazing as milk thistle. This flower is found in the wild near bodies of water, on the outskirts of roads and vegetable gardens. But many gardeners and summer residents, not knowing about its healing properties, simply uproot and destroy this amazing plant. But it is recognized by official medicine as a means for treating other organs. In this article we will talk about why milk thistle is drunk and what medicinal properties and contraindications its seeds, leaves, flowers and oil have.

What it looks like and where it grows

Milk thistle is also commonly called “St. Mary’s thistle.” This herbaceous annual (less often biennial) plant reaches an average height of 100-110 cm, has a branched, erect stem with basal leaves. The leaves are large, some of them reach 80-90 cm in length and 30-35 cm in width. The flowers are collected in large spherical baskets, colored purple or pink-violet.

Milk thistle fruits are achenes with a tuft that have an obliquely truncated base. This plant does not have a distinct odor, but the flowers, shoots and seeds taste slightly bitter. Thistles in central Europe bloom throughout the summer.

Did you know? Milk thistle decoctions were prepared by the ancient Greeks about 2,000 thousand years ago.

The homeland of this medicinal plant is considered to be the Mediterranean countries (Egypt, Turkey, mountainous regions of Italy, Portugal, Albania). However, milk thistle is widespread throughout the world, often found even in Australia and Central Africa. In the CIS countries, thistle can be found as a wild plant almost anywhere: on the edges of roads, in vegetable gardens, near rivers, gardens and parks. This plant is one of the most aggressive weeds, so gardeners are forced to spend a lot of effort every year fighting it. In Russia and Ukraine, milk thistle is grown to obtain medicinal raw materials. It is known that in Russia, cultivated thistle crops occupy about 10 thousand hectares of land, in Ukraine - about 5 thousand hectares.

Chemical composition

Recent scientific research has shown that milk thistle contains more than 200 different components that the human body needs to function properly. These components are presented in the form of vitamin compounds, macro- and microelements, silymarin. The latter substance plays a huge role in maintaining function. Silymarin began to be researched back during the Second World War: it was then that it was found that this complex substance is capable of restoring liver cell membranes. Moreover, practically no other chemical compound exhibits such an effect.

Milk thistle contains the following components essential for the human body (indicated in mg/g):

• - 9,3;
• - 0,08;
• - 16,6;
• copper - 1.18;
• - 0,15;
• - 0,09;
• - 0,71;
• - 22,8;
• - 4,3;
• boron - 22.4.

In addition to the above, vitamins A, K, E, D, F and B vitamins were also found in milk thistle. It should be noted that the beneficial substances listed above are not a complete set of all those components that can be found in the wonderful thistle plant.

Medicinal properties

Milk thistle contains a huge storehouse of substances beneficial to human health. For the first time, pharmaceutical scientists from Munich undertook to study the composition of this plant for beneficial substances. They discovered a huge number of components in thistle, among which was silymarin. Silymarin can bring the following benefits to the human body:

• protect from exposure to various toxic and poisonous substances (decomposition products of alcohol, antibiotics, toadstool);
• have an antioxidant effect on the entire body;
• regenerate and strengthen liver and gallbladder cells;
• protect the body from exposure to allergens of various natures.

Important!You should consume milk thistle oil or meal only as prescribed by a doctor, because overdose increases the risk of side effects.

Imagine the enormous benefits this plant can bring to the body if we listed the positive qualities of only one component out of 200 existing nutrients. Experts note that milk thistle has the following medicinal properties:

• minimizes damage to cells and intercellular substance when the body is exposed to background radiation (chemotherapy, poor ecology);
• helps in the fight against lipid liver damage;
• promotes the treatment of hepatitis, alcoholic cirrhosis, fibrosis;
• eliminates liver failure, which manifested itself against the background of prolonged and uncontrolled use of steroid drugs;
• reduces the level of “harmful” in the blood. And this helps improve blood circulation and prevent blood clots (minimizes the risk of and);
• reduces the risk of developing the cervix, breast, prostate, liver and kidneys;
• normalizes blood sugar levels, which is why it is an indispensable tool for improving health in diabetes mellitus types 1 and 2;
• prevents the development of Alzheimer's disease;
• rejuvenates the body, promotes the regeneration of epidermal cells;
• improves digestion processes, stimulates the gastrointestinal tract.

I would also like to add that doctors recommend using milk thistle oil for lesions or pathologies of the skin (dermatitis, eczema). It, like any other drug, can bring both benefit and harm to the body. Therefore, before taking it, it is better to consult a doctor.

Pharmaceutical preparations based on milk thistle

On the pharmacological market you can find four types of thistle-based preparations: oil (packaged in bottles or capsules), extract, powder (meal), seeds and fruits of the plant. Each of these drugs exhibits an individual effect on the body and has different indications and methods of use. Thistle-based preparations also have side effects and contraindications, so it is better to consult your doctor before using them.

Application in various fields

Milk thistle has found wide application in various fields of human activity: in,.

In medicine

In official medicine, milk thistle oil, meal, extracts, alcohol tinctures and herbal teas are used to treat various diseases. Dried ripe fruits of the plant are used as raw materials for these products. Preparations based on thistle have a good choleretic effect, improve the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, and protect liver cells from the negative effects of various toxins.

Did you know?In 809, King Ahie created the Order of the Thistle, which symbolized the love for this beautiful plant.

Milk thistle oil contains a large amount of silymarin, so it is recommended to take it to treat liver diseases, lesions of the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract, and skin diseases. Since the oil of this plant has practically no contraindications (rare cases of individual intolerance to the components by the body occur), it is also recommended to be used for the prevention of diseases with increased stress on the liver (frequent consumption of alcohol, fatty foods).

In cosmetology

In cosmetology, only milk thistle oil is often used. Due to the huge concentration of useful substances in its composition, the benefits of such oil are undoubtedly great:

• helps protect the skin from drying out and dehydration, prevents peeling of the upper layers of the epidermis;
• soothes sensitive and irritated skin;
• improves the elasticity and firmness of the skin, helps normalize skin color;
• prevents acne, protects against allergic reactions;
• helps normalize the functioning of the sebaceous glands of the skin;
• With constant application of thistle oil to the skin, blood circulation in the upper layer of the epidermis improves. This property helps protect against the appearance.

The oil from this amazing plant is also very useful for and. It helps strengthen and gives them a natural shine. Doctors recommend the use of this remedy for men who began having problems with diabetes at an early age.

In cooking

Milk thistle is used in cooking for dietary purposes. You can eat all parts of the plant, even the roots. But before use, it is necessary to carry out some manipulations with young shoots in order to remove the unpleasant bitterness. It is best to soak them for 24 hours, then you can add them to salads and soups.

Important!Milk thistle is prohibited from being consumed in any form for mental disorders and epilepsy.

The roots of the plant are thoroughly washed and then boiled a little. They can then be fried or eaten boiled. Thistle flowers make an excellent seasoning for a variety of dishes. They are collected from mid to late summer, dried, then crushed. Moreover, the flowers will turn out tasty and aromatic, especially if you add a little freshly picked one to it.

Folk recipes

Due to its extensive medicinal properties, milk thistle is widely used in. Our ancestors have long treated poisoning, problems with the gastrointestinal tract and liver with tinctures and decoctions of this plant.

For constipation

Thistle is known for its laxative effect, so it is advisable to take it for. To get rid of this problem, you need to purchase meal at the pharmacy and make a tincture from it: 1 tsp. Pour the meal with 100 grams of boiled water, leave for 30-40 minutes. You need to drink before or during meals. The laxative effect will appear within 1.5-2 hours.

For hemorrhoids

Thistle tinctures and tea help cleanse the blood of harmful and toxic substances, and also strengthen the walls of arteries and blood vessels. It should be noted that thistle oil or meal can also be used for varicose veins. During meals you need to add 1/2 tsp to your food. oil or 1-2 tablespoons of meal (you can use dry powder).

For joint pain

If joint pain plagues you every day, you need to drink juice from thistle leaves or tincture from its roots. The juice has a bitter taste, so it can be consumed with honey or diluted in water. Experts recommend taking 1-2 tbsp. l. freshly squeezed juice every morning on an empty stomach. The squeezed juice can be stored in the refrigerator for no more than 3 days, as after this it loses some of its beneficial properties.

Milk thistle root powder can be brewed and used for severe symptoms. 1-2 tbsp. l. Pour the powder into a glass of boiling water and leave for 20-30 minutes. Consume 2-3 times a day 20 minutes before meals.

For inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract

If you have problems with the gastrointestinal tract, you should use a tincture of milk thistle seeds. Before preparing the tincture, you need to thoroughly grind the seeds. Then pour one teaspoon of seeds into a glass of boiling water and leave for 15-20 minutes. This tincture should be consumed three times a day, half an hour before meals, 1/3 cup.

For liver diseases

Liver diseases can be treated with a decoction of thistle roots. The roots must be thoroughly dried and chopped. 1 tbsp. l. roots are poured with a glass of boiled water and infused for about 30 minutes. Drink 50-70 g of decoction 20-30 minutes before eating. For liver diseases, a decoction of thistle seeds will also come to the rescue. Everything is prepared in the same way as in the previous case, only 2 times less raw materials are added.

To prevent and treat liver diseases, you can regularly drink tea from milk thistle leaves and shoots. It is prepared very simply: a dessert spoon of raw materials is poured with a glass of boiling water and left to infuse for literally 3-4 minutes. You can drink this tea 2-3 times a day.

Collection, preparation and storage of medicinal raw materials

All parts of milk thistle are used for medicinal purposes: roots, leaves, shoots, flowers and seeds. It should be noted that the seeds are the most valuable part of the plant. Meal, oil and herbal teas are prepared on their basis. Seed collection should begin in August, in more southern regions - in September or October. You can tell that the seeds are already ripe by the yellow baskets from which “parachutes” fly out. The seeds must be cut carefully, preferably using pruning shears.

Did you know?The Greek herbalist Dioscorides treated many diseases with thistle, as he considered this plant holy and omnipotent.

Thistle flowers, leaves and shoots can be collected throughout the summer. It is better to dig up the roots of the plant a few days before the onset of frost, when the leaves and stem have already dried out. Before storing the collected material, it must be thoroughly dried. This can be done in the sun or in the attic. Ready seeds can be stored in a dry place for three years. Roots, leaves and shoots are stored for only a year.

Contraindications and side effects

If dosages and intake standards are followed, there should be no side effects from any milk thistle-based drugs. In some cases, patients complain of pain in the right hypochondrium and diarrhea (but this is more likely in cases of overdose and/or long-term treatment). Some people may have an allergic reaction to components of this plant.

Among the contraindications to the use of thistle, the following should be highlighted:

• acute gallbladder disease;
• and lactation;
• individual intolerance by the body to plant components.

Milk thistle is a valuable plant that has found its use not only in medicine, but also in cosmetology and cooking. Based on it, many types of medicines are made that help people heal more than a dozen common types. But, despite all this, before using this plant for medicinal purposes, it is best to consult a doctor.