The Use of Milk Thistle in Traditional Medicine
This remedy has been used since ancient times to treat various serious diseases. Today, this herb is in high demand.
In traditional medicine, milk thistle is primarily used as a cellular regenerator. The cell membrane not only serves as a protective barrier but also aids in nutrition, detoxification, and respiration. If certain factors damage these barriers, both the cells and the entire body begin to suffer.
Milk thistle is successfully used in traditional medicine to treat liver diseases (here you can read about liver recovery methods), toxic hepatitis, bile duct diseases, intoxication, radiation and chemotherapy exposure, joint diseases, and more. The presence of silymarin in milk thistle explains its beneficial and medicinal properties. Additionally, it contains essential oils, flavonoids, magnesium, flavonolignans, potassium, zinc, calcium, selenium, resins, and fatty oils.
The most effective form for treatment is milk thistle oil. It is known for its anti-inflammatory, wound-healing, anti-ulcer, and hepatoprotective properties. Milk thistle is also widely used in traditional medicine for detoxification from harmful substances.
The Most Effective Recipes
For Hepatitis:
Grind two teaspoons of milk thistle seeds and pour them into half a liter of water. Simmer until the water volume is reduced by half. Once cooled, take one tablespoon of the decoction every hour from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM until the remedy is finished. Then, take a two-week break and repeat the treatment cycle.
To aid in toxin elimination, consume dry milk thistle powder, one teaspoon 30 minutes before meals, four times a day, with water. This course should last 40 days, followed by a two-week break, and then repeated according to the same regimen for six months.
Using the Roots:
Not only the herb but also the roots of this plant can be used. Grind the previously mentioned parts, measure out two tablespoons, and pour half a liter of boiling water over them. Let it steep overnight, then strain and take 150 ml three times a day before meals.
For treating children’s liver conditions (here you can read about natural liver cleansing methods), take one tablespoon of milk thistle seeds and pour a glass of hot milk over them. Bring to a boil again, let it steep, then after three hours, boil again, cool, and take 100 ml three times a day, one hour before meals.
Contraindications
However, it is important to consider that milk thistle has contraindications. It should not be given to children under two years old, pregnant or breastfeeding women. Additionally, treatment with milk thistle is not recommended in the final stage of liver cirrhosis, in cases of acute cholangitis, gallbladder edema, liver failure, or allergic reactions to milk thistle.
Self-medication should not harm your health. Therefore, any traditional treatment should be discussed with your doctor.