Milk thistle for what?

1. Hepatoprotective antioxidant effect: Silymarin can maintain the fluidity of the cell membrane by anti-lipid peroxidation, thus protecting the liver cell membrane; It can also inhibit the release of superoxide anion from neutrophils to reduce the liver cell damage caused by inflammatory cells. Other studies have shown that silybin can increase the expression of superoxide dismutase (SOD) in the lymphocytes of mice with chronic alcoholic liver disease, thus playing an antioxidant role. In addition, it has been reported that silibinin can reduce the production of oxides such as reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA).
2. Anti-fibrosis effect: Many studies have confirmed that silymarin achieves an anti-fibrosis effect through antioxidant and direct inhibition of various cytokines on the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSC).
3. Liver protection and lipid-lowering effect.
4. Anti-inflammatory effect: Silybin can reduce the levels of various pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-8, IL-6, MCP-1, and TNF-α, thus playing an anti-inflammatory role. This effect is achieved by inhibiting the NF-κB action by inhibiting IKK-β and p50 and p65 activities.

What are the applications of milk thistle extract?

Milk thistle extract can be used in the following fields: medicine, solid drinks, health products, tablet candy, cosmetics, etc.

What are the functions of milk thistle supplements?

1. Improve liver health: Continuous drinking can damage the liver. Some studies suggest that silymarin may help reduce inflammation and prevent oxidative stress in the liver, which may aid recovery from alcoholic liver disease. Silymarin’s anti-fibrotic properties may help slow the progression of cirrhosis, a disease in which liver tissue is replaced by scar tissue. Milk thistle may also help protect the liver from toxins, including those caused by certain medications.
2. Prevent cancer and support cancer treatment.
3. Helps with blood sugar regulation: Some studies suggest that milk thistle may help improve blood sugar control and reduce insulin resistance in people with type 2 diabetes. This may be attributed to the antioxidant properties of silymarin, which may improve the function of insulin-secreting cells in the pancreas.
4. Improves brain health: Milk thistle’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may make it a potential candidate for neuroprotective therapies. Silymarin’s strong antioxidant properties can help fight oxidative stress and may protect brain cells from damage. Silymarin has anti-inflammatory effects that may help counteract this, reduce inflammation in the brain, and slow the progression of diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
5. Helps with cholesterol management: The liver plays a key role in cholesterol synthesis and metabolism. Since milk thistle is known for its liver-protecting properties, improving liver function optimizes cholesterol metabolism, resulting in a better overall cholesterol balance. Studies have shown that milk thistle can lower cholesterol levels.
6. Boost immunity: Studies have shown that silymarin may inhibit the activation of certain cells and factors that suppress the immune response, such as T-regulatory cells. Therefore, milk thistle may enhance the body’s overall immune activity.
7. Improve skin health: Silymarin is a key compound in milk thistle with powerful antioxidant properties. It fights oxidative stress by neutralizing harmful free radicals in the body. This action not only supports internal health but also benefits the skin. By fighting oxidative damage, silymarin can prevent premature skin aging. In addition, its antioxidant effects protect against UV radiation and environmental pollutants, promoting overall skin health.

Who should not use milk thistle powder with caution?

1. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should be cautious, as there is limited research on the effects of milk thistle in these situations.
2. People with a history of hormone-sensitive diseases, such as some types of breast cancer, may want to avoid milk thistle because it can mimic the effects of estrogen.
3. People who are allergic to plants in the milk thistle family, such as ragweed, marigolds, and daisies, may experience an allergic reaction.
4. Anyone planning to have surgery should avoid milk thistle as it may interfere with blood sugar control during and after surgery.