Milk thistle
Brand Names
Milk thistleWhat is Milk thistle
Milk thistle is a dietary supplement that usually used for liver disorders, including liver damage caused by chemicals, Amanita phalloides mushroom poisoning, jaundice, chronic inflammatory liver disease, cirrhosis of the liver, and chronic hepatitis. Nevertheless, researchers have not yet concluded with certainty that milk thistle is effective for any of these uses. In foods, milk thistle leaves and flowers are eaten as a vegetable for salads and a substitute for spinach. The seeds are roasted for use as a coffee substitute.
Side effects of Milk thistle
Possible side effects caused by this remedy include:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Indigestion or heartburn
- Gas
- Bloating
- Loss of appetite
- Headaches
- Weakness
- Insomnia
- Joint pain
- Runny or stuffy nose and irritated eyes
- Impotence (also known as erectile dysfunction, or ED)
- A rash or hives
- Itching
- Swelling of the mouth or throat
- Wheezing
- Difficulty breathing
Indication
Milk thistle is used for liver disorders, including liver damage caused by chemicals, Amanita phalloides mushroom poisoning, jaundice, chronic inflammatory liver disease, cirrhosis of the liver, and chronic hepatitis.
Precautions
You should tell your doctor before taking milk thistle if you have/are:
- Any chronic medical condition
- Cancer (or a history of cancer)
- Endometriosis
- Uterine fibroids
- Any allergies, including allergies to foods, dyes or preservatives
- Pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant
- Breastfeeding
- Take any other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins and herbal supplements
Dosage forms
The recommended dose of milk thistle for upset stomach (dyspepsia): A specific combination product containing milk thistle (Iberogast, Medical Futures, Inc) and several other herbs has been used in a dose of 1 mL three times daily .
The recommended dose of milk thistle for diabetes: Silymarin 200 mg three times daily has been used in combination with usual treatment.
