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Milk thistle is regarded as an herbal remedy of sorts due in large part to its restorative features. Historically the plant, scientifically known as Silybum marianus, was used to stimulate the milk flow of nursing mothers; hence the nickname milk thistle. To further support its common name, the white-streaked leaves it bears are said to be a symbol for milk. Known as an ingredient in herbal remedies for hundreds of years, milk thistle is said to have many helpful uses.
Seeds of the Milk Thistle Plant
The seeds of the milk thistle plant are high in silymarin which has been shown to help fight the symptoms of liver disease. Not surprisingly many herbalists use these seeds for the treatment of cirrhosis of the liver and hepatitis. Other uses for the milk thistle seeds include treating high cholesterol and decrease inflammation of the gall bladder.
In order to properly utilize the seeds, it is common for them to be made into a tincture by combining 20 to 50 drops of milk thistle seed oil with water. Capsules are also available and are commonly recommended in dosages of one or two 200 mg capsules per day. The stated doses are commonly quoted by herbalists for treatment of both liver and gall bladder problems.
Another application for the milk thistle seed is as a treatment for swollen skin ulcers. The seed can be converted to powder form and then dusted over the skin. Additionally, seeds can be infused and drank as hot tea for another option to treat gall bladder problems.
Flowers and Leaves of the Milk Thistle Plant
Before the flower even opens, milk thistle plant flower heads are prepared similar to an artichoke and consumed to help stimulate the digestive system and the liver. Leaves of this plant can be eaten in a manner similar to spinach and are thought to stimulate the milk flow in nursing mothers and to ease menstrual problems.
Another way to utilize the flowers and leave of this remarkable plant is to use in an infusion. The hot tea can also be used for milk production stimulation as well as in the treatment of digestive problems.
In addition to the herbal remedies made possible by milk thistle, recent medical research has found antioxidant health benefits as well. Studies have shown that milk thistle contains more antioxidants than vitamin E. Further, the seeds of the milk thistle plant have been known to help prevent damage caused to the body's tissues because of free radicals. With the known and supposed benefits milk thistle is said to offer, it certainly warrants a bit of personal research to determine the benefits it may provide to you.
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