silymarin
ABOUT
Milk thistle (silymarin) is a flowering herb related to the daisy and ragweed family. Some people also call it Mary thistle and holy thistle. Silymarin is the primary active ingredient of the herb. It is an antioxidant compound taken from milk thistle seeds. It protects liver cells from chemicals and drugs that are harmful. It also has an anti-inflammatory impact. Milk thistle plant extract may improve the estrogen effects.
BENEFITS
Protects liver
Silymarin is often promoted for its liver-protecting effects. It is regularly used as a complementary therapy by people who have liver damage due to conditions like alcoholic liver disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, hepatitis and even liver cancer.
Prevents age-related decline in brain function
Silymarin's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties make it neuroprotective and help prevent the decline in brain function with advancing age.
Boosts breast milk production
Silymarin boosts breast milk production in lactating mothers. It works by making more of the milk-producing hormone prolactin.
Protects bones
Osteoporosis is a disease caused by progressive bone loss. It usually develops slowly over many years and causes fragile bones that break easily, even after minor falls. Silymarin stimulates bone mineralization and potentially protects bone loss. It is a useful therapy for preventing or delaying bone loss in postmenopausal women.
Lowers blood sugar levels
Silymarin helps to manage type 2 diabetes. The compounds in Silymarin help improve insulin sensitivity and decrease blood sugar.
Protects liver
Silymarin is often promoted for its liver-protecting effects. It is regularly used as a complementary therapy by people who have liver damage due to conditions like alcoholic liver disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, hepatitis and even liver cancer.