Though you might not have heard of it, milk thistle has been used to treat or manage certain conditions for years. It’s a herbal remedy that scientists have only recently started to study so it’s a good idea to keep your eye on it. Under the right conditions, it could have just the right health benefits that you’re looking for.
What Exactly Is Milk Thistle?
Milk thistle is a flowering herb that has its origins in the Meditteranean region. However, it can now be found in the eastern United States, California, South America, Africa, Australia, and Asia.
The prickly plant, with its distinctive purple flowers, has been used to treat conditions such as liver disorders, gallbladder issues, and cancer.
Now that it’s being studied, researchers suggest that the active compounds in milk thistle – known as silymarin – are responsible for all the health benefits.
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5 Science-Based Health Benefits Of Milk Thistle
1. It Can Protect Your Liver
According to a few studies, milk thistle can be a helpful complementary treatment for those who are dealing with liver disease. Researchers suggest that this may be due to the herb’s antioxidant properties, which means it would protect the liver from damage and inflammation.
2. It Can Manage Your Blood Sugar Levels
In a recent study, researchers found that milk thistle could have a similar effect on blood sugar levels as diabetic medication. Participants in this study typically saw a reduction in their blood sugar as well as an increased sensitivity to insulin.
It’s also possible that milk thistle’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties can help prevent diabetic complications. It’s important to note that these benefits have only been established for those with type 2 diabetes.
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3. It Can Reduce Bad Cholesterol
Thus far, the benefits of milk thistle on the heart has only been studied in those who have diabetes.
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However, the results show that the herb can reduce your levels of bad cholesterol levels, which makes heart disease
