Milk thistle, also known as bitter thistle, is widely used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat all kinds of ailments, mainly of the liver.
An active ingredient called silymarin is extracted from this plant and has been investigated by scientists throughout the world to determine its health benefits. He continues reading and discovers what is the use of milk thistle infusion.
The milk thistle plant
Silybum marianum is a simple – stemmed herbaceous plant native to the Mediterranean, although it can also be found in Asia, mainly in India and Siberia.
It can reach 3 meters in height. Its leaves are large, and can measure up to 40 by 12 cm. They stand out for their unique green and white drawing that makes the leaves look painted. In addition, these have small ends that can be confused with spikes.
The flowers are round and purple, with numerous pointed petals, similar to hairs, of a slightly darker color.
Health benefits of milk thistle
When preparing infusions and all kinds of natural remedies, milk thistle seeds are used. Next, we will analyze if its homeopathic uses have a scientific basis.
Reduces the presence of sugar in the blood
Some components present in milk thistle may act like some antidiabetic drugs, helping to lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin control.
Helps eliminate stones in the gallbladder and/or kidneys
The compounds present in this herb have been shown to have properties that enable the elimination of bothersome gallbladder or kidney stones by increasing the production of bile.
Liver protection
Milk thistle has been used for hundreds of years to relieve symptoms of cirrhosis and other liver problems. To this day, the conclusions are controversial, but some specialists maintain that it has a protective function.
Has anti-inflammatory properties
The anti-inflammatory potential of milk thistle makes this infusion a good option to relieve muscle and joint discomfort, migraine, and even menstrual cramps.
Antioxidant action
Milk thistle contains substances with antioxidant potential, that is, molecules that fight free radicals to protect the body from oxidative stress that can cause all kinds of degenerative diseases such as cardiovascular and brain diseases, and premature aging, among others.
Protects bone density
Drinking milk thistle tea may help keep your bones strong, prevent fractures, and prevent diseases such as osteoporosis, according to findings from animal trials.
Improve acne
One study compared the effect of silymarin intake by a group of acne patients versus a control group. The result showed that consuming milk thistle for several weeks decreased the presence of acne.
Lowers cholesterol levels
The WebMD Medical Encyclopedia notes that bitter thistle works by lowering bad cholesterol levels, while increasing good cholesterol levels. This would act by protecting cardiovascular health since high cholesterol is one of the great risk markers for heart disease.
Relieves the effects of a hangover
If one night you get overwhelmed with drinks, drinking an infusion of milk thistle would help rehydrate you, relieve migraine, nausea and annoying hangover symptoms.
Increases milk production
Grandmothers argue that milk thistle infusion significantly increases milk production in lactating mothers. There is no scientific data to support this theory; however, the e-lactation medical encyclopedia has categorized it as safe, so if you wish, you can try it without fear because it is excreted in minimal doses in breast milk.
How to make the perfect cup of milk thistle tea
Preparing an infusion of milk thistle is simple but, of course, you must take into account the amount of milk thistle to use to obtain a palatable flavor.
Ingredients
1 teaspoon of milk thistle seeds
1 cup of water
Elaboration
- Put the water in a pot and bring it to a boil.
- When it starts to boil, add the milk thistle seeds.
- Let them decoction for 1 minute.
- Turn off the heat and let stand for 7 minutes.
- Strain and sweeten with honey. Ready to drink!
Milk thistle infusion can be a good way to prevent different liver diseases and, at the same time, protect the body from oxidative damage. In addition, it is a comforting and rich infusion!