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What Is Milk Thistle Tea Good For

Best Health Benefits Of Milk Thistle Tea

What is Milk Thistle Tea

In nature, there are certain objects which come with amazing health benefits. You often use certain products which are chemical-oriented and have certain side effects with benefits. But, using a natural product may not have that much threat to your health. Rather, they have certain benefits for which you may have wasted lots of money. Milk thistle is one of such objects. It comprises an ingredient that is known as silymarin. It is proven to treat liver ailments and take good care of your digestive system. Besides that, milk thistle tea is also beneficial in treating type 2 diabetes and controlling cholesterol level.

Milk Thistle Tea

Where Do Thistles Grow In Scotland

Common throughout the highlands, islands and lowlands of Scotland, the prickly purple thistle has been Scotlands national emblem for centuries. This proud and regal plant, which grows to a height of five feet, has no natural enemies because of the vicious spines that cover and protect it like a porcupine.

Milk Thistle Helps Liver Function

Milk Thistle is a popular herbal remedy that may be beneficial for those who overindulge in alcohol. One of the biggest dangers of excessive drinking is liver damage. Anything that can help protect against this is welcome. It is not suggested that this herbal remedy is a cure for alcoholic liver disease, but it may lessen the severity of it. The most interesting claim for milk thistle is that it is able to improve liver function.

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Potential Health Benefits Of Milk Thistle

Organic milk thistle has been consumed for thousands of years as an anti-inflammatory product to treat liver health and other health problems. It contains the natural compound called Silymarinarin, a mixture of glycosides that includes:

  • silybin
  • silidian
  • silichristin

Silymarin has antioxidant properties and has two positive effects on liver health: it strengthens cell membranes and promotes the formation of new cells, stimulating protein synthesis, which increases the production of bile.

How Long To Take Milk Thistle For

Everyday Finesse: Milk thistle tea

Milk thistle is generally considered safe to be taken long term, with the previously mentioned study stating it was safe for up to 41 months.

If youre wondering how long to take milk thistle for a liver cleanse, then the answer is similar to the previous section, as at around 3 to 4 months you should be able to notice health benefits. However, liver cleanses or liver detoxes dont have substantial scientific backing as to whether they actually work, so conduct these with the knowledge that it isnt a proven method for repairing liver damage.

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Healing Benefits Of Milk Thistle Tea

This ancient healing herb is now widely grown across the world. You may have walked past it numerous times and not realized the health-boosting contents of this small purple flower. The Silymarin in milk thistle is what makes it so special. Silymarin is an anti-oxidant and an anti-inflammatory. It is wonderful for recovering from liver damage caused by toxins such as alcohol, acetaminophen or toluene or other drugs. In addition, milk thistle has:

  • blood glucose regulation abilities
  • brain-protecting action

Milk Thistle Tea Benefits

Making tea out of herbs and plants such as milk thistle is a time-honored tradition, both for pleasure and medicinal purposes. Milk thistle tea is commonly associated with its benefits to the liver, but it also has other uses — both traditionally and in modern times. Drinking milk thistle tea is generally regarded as safe, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, but consult a doctor before taking it, if you are allergic to any plant, are taking any medications or have a history of cancer.

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Supports The Immune System

Milk thistle may help strengthen a persons immune response. It could help the body fight off infection as well as reduce chronic inflammation produced by the immune system.

Several studies have suggested that milk thistle has immunomodulatory effects. Researchers found silymarin stimulated the immune system. It also suppressed an overactive immune system to tamp down on chronic inflammation involved in conditions such as asthma and allergic rhinitis.

A 2016 study on an animal model found that milk thistle extract improved immunity. An older study found that milk thistle extract had a positive effect on immune response in humans.

More studies with human participants could allow scientists to say with certainty that milk thistle supports a persons immune system.

  • upset stomach
  • a mild allergic reaction, at high doses

There is not much information about the interaction of milk thistle with other drugs, including anticancer medications and radiation therapy. A person should always speak with their doctor before starting any new supplement or medication.

Similar to milk thistle, dandelion has antioxidant effects. It reportedly has other potential health benefits, which may include:

  • protecting the liver, immune system, and kidneys
  • providing antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial properties
  • reducing the risk of diabetes, arthritis, and obesity

Due to some similar potential health benefits, producers have studied milk thistle and dandelion supplements and sold them together.

The Properties Of Milk Thistle

HOW TO MAKE MILK THISTLE HERBAL TEA WITH SEEDS

Silybum marianum is the more technical name for milk thistle. It has been used for thousands of years for the treatment of liver problems. This plant originated in the southern parts of Europe, but now can be found across the globe. It contains a chemical called silymarin. This flavonoid possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties which can be highly beneficial to the liver. It is claimed that silymarin not only protects the liver from toxins but also helps the organ heal from damage that has already occurred.

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How To Brew Milk Thistle Tea

Milk thistle tea can be found as a fresh or dried loose leaf tea. It is also commonly sold in tea bags. Use these tips to brew the perfect cup of milk thistle tea.

1. Bring water to a boil and add milk thistle seeds, leaves, or tea bag.

2. Steep the milk thistle tea for 20 minutes.

3. Strain using a fine mesh strainer and add flavorings such as milk or honey. Enjoy!

Limits The Spread Of Cancer

Milk thistle may help to stop the spread of certain types of cancer.

Small studies mainly performed on cells in laboratories have found that milk thistle can slow cancer cell and tumor growth and possibly increase the effectiveness of chemotherapy, according to the . Researchers have found benefits for several types of cancer, including:

  • prostate cancer

the side effects of cancer treatments, including radiation, surgery, and chemotherapy.

The Food and Drug Administration milk thistle for the treatment of cancer. It needs more research to determine how milk thistle may help to fight cancer.

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Milk Thistle Benefits: What Can It Do

  • Protecting the liver and gallbladder

Probably best known for its detoxing properties, studies have suggested milk thistle can help treat alcohol-related liver damage, chronic liver diseases and even liver cancer. Research is ongoing into how it can best be used for specific liver issues.

‘It reduces free radicals which may be produced when your liver metabolises toxic substances’, says Al-Ali. ‘Studies have shown improvements in liver function in people with liver diseases who have taken a milk thistle supplement, suggesting it could help reduce inflammation and damage and it is often promoted for its liver-protecting effects.’

  • Help symptoms of diabetes

Combined with traditional treatment, milk thistle has shown to help type 2 diabetes by decreasing blood sugar levels, improving insulin resistance and lowering cholesterol.

  • Balancing hormones

As the liver plays a big part in the smooth runnings of the adrenal system, removing excess or used hormones from the body, milk thistle is thought to avoid issues like excess oestrogen and research seems to back this up.

  • Brain function

Milk thistle has been used to treat neurodegenerative disorders, like Alzheimers, Parkinson’s and cerebral ischemia for thousands of years. Studies suggest it can improve symptoms where the issue is oxidative stress or neuroinflammation are related to the progression of the disorder. Its also thought to stave off age-related neurological function decline.

  • Skin health
  • Fights cancer
  • Lowers Cholesterol

How Does Milk Thistle Benefit You

Effective Milk Thistle Tea that gives more health benefits ...

Milk thistle works by flushing out the toxins in the body, which can otherwise cause issues like liver cirrhosis, kidney stones, diabetes, ill effects of chemotherapy, etc.

The other important nutrients in milk thistle, like vitamin E, fight free radicals and can delay the signs of aging. These characteristics of milk thistle make it what it is a simple herb bestowing us with its great benefits.

As per an Indian study, milk thistle has been used in traditional medicine to treat diseases of the liver and the biliary tract .

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How To Make Milk Thistle Tea

Milk thistle tea is easy to make at home. Its available for purchase as loose or ground seeds and leaves or in tea bags.

Steep a tea bag or 1 teaspoon of loose tea in 1 cup of hot water for 510 minutes. If not using a tea bag, strain the tea before drinking it.

Summary

You can make milk thistle tea at home by steeping 1 teaspoon of loose tea or a tea bag in hot water for 510 minutes before straining.

It Helps To Build Strong Immunity

To keep yourself active, you have to have a strong immunity. Milk thistle is such an object that contains certain components which have a positive impact on your immunity system. Once you have stronger immunity, you can fight against diseases and can stay out of frequent illness. Having milk thistle tea twice daily can strengthen your immunity faster.

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The Safety And Risks Of Using Milk Thistle

Milk thistle is generally considered safe for most people, though it does have the potential to cause gastrointestinal issues, headaches, and itchiness.

It could possibly trigger an allergic reaction, too, especially if you have an allergy to related plants like marigold, ragweed, daisies, or chrysanthemums.

That said, a few specific groups should take extra care with this herbal remedy. Talk with your doctor before using milk thistle if:

  • You have diabetes. Since milk thistle has the potential to lower blood sugar, you definitely want to proceed with caution.
  • You have breast, uterine, or ovarian cancer, or have endometriosis or uterine fibroids. Milk thistle is thought to have estrogenic properties that could potentially affect these conditions.
  • Youre pregnant or breastfeeding. Experts cant say for sure whether milk thistle is safe for moms-to-be or those who are nursing.
  • You take a prescription meds. Milk thistle has the potential to interact with several drugs, including diabetes meds, some antibiotics, immunosuppressants, and hepatitis C meds.

Milk Thistle In History

The Health Benefits of Milk thistle tea

Greek botanist and physician Dioscorides is credited as the first individual to document the health boosting effects of milk thistle. Later, in 1597, English herbalist John Gerard noted that the plant functions as a great remedy for melancholy diseases, such as certain types of depressive disorders.

Others boasted of milk thistleâs healing properties. The relevance of milk thistle as a medical remedy grew significantly. To extract its effects, the leaves and seeds of milk thistle are infused in hot water. Once brewed, milk thistle tea gives off a slightly sweet flavor that can be enjoyed with honey and milk.

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Side Effects Of Milk Thistle Tea

Milk thistle tea can have a number of side effects, such as:

  • Vomiting and overall weakness.

Risks

However, these are mainly experienced by people who are sensitive or allergic to milk thistle and can be quite severe. The most common side effects are related to stomach upset and inflammation of the gut.

  • Diabetics: Due to the blood sugar-lowering properties of this tea, it can be dangerous for diabetics who are already on medication to lower their blood sugar. Overlapping these two treatments can cause blood sugar to fall to dangerous levels.
  • Pregnant Women: While anecdotal reports argue that drinking this tea during pregnancy and breastfeeding is okay, and has no notable side effects, you should be very careful about what you consume during pregnancy.
  • Drug Interactions: Milk thistle tea has many active ingredients that can interact with drugs for everything from diabetes and hypertension to sleep aids and liver disease.

Speak to your doctor before adding any new tea to your health regimen.

It Takes Care Of Your Skin

According to a scientific study in 2015, it has been proved that milk thistle is effective in treating your skin issues. The antioxidant in it can promote healthy skin, just by rejuvenating your skin cells. Milk thistle has anti-aging properties. Therefore, consuming milk thistle tea can keep your skin well-toned and eliminates any dark circles and wrinkles from your skin. To get youthful skin, you can have milk thistle tea every day, once.

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How To Add It To Your Diet

Its pretty easy to add milk thistle tea to your diet, but first you should check with your doctor.

Once you get the OK, you can buy ready-to-go milk thistle tea online in tea bags or as loose tea. Steep the tea in hot water for about 5 minutes, and optionally add some cream, sugar, or sweetener for taste.

Although a few human studies have demonstrated its safety, remember there hasnt been a ton of human research and there have also been no long-term studies so its a good idea to limit your milk thistle tea consumption to 1 to 2 cups per day .

If you have any medical issues or are taking and prescription medications, make sure to talk with your doc first.

Finally, remember that theres not a lot of evidence that milk thistle will boost your liver health, increase your milk supply, or provide any other benefits that its been claimed to. So drink it if you like the taste, or if you want a little boost of antioxidants and minerals but dont expect too much.

Protects Against Cancer And Disease

The Republic Of Tea, Milk Thistle Superherb, 36 Count

Research from the University of Minnesota found “strong preclinical evidence for silymarin’s hepatoprotective and anticarcinogenic effects.” Here’s how it works: Silymarin protects against depletion of glutathione, a powerful antioxidant that helps fight oxidative stress, which can lead to skin, breast, prostate and cervical cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.

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Learn About Our Tea For Trees Campaign

Our Tea for Trees campaign creates a sustainable model that restores one of our most precious resources while offsetting the paper used in our products. Weve partnered with The National Forest Foundations Trees for Us, a program that annually plants millions of trees throughout our national forests.

By giving back whenever possible, Buddha Teas strives to honor the earth and its many blessings. Help us plant trees while enjoying an unadulterated tea thats healthy for you, and our planet. Read more about it here.

Protects Against Liver Damage

Milk thistle tea is often prescribed for liver treatments. It contains silymarin, an active ingredient, which is composed of three different flavonoids. A study published in the Journal of Applied Toxicology directly links silymarin to repairing liver cells and protecting against liver damage induced by acetaminophen. According to several studies, it is also used in cirrhosis of the liver and hepatocellular carcinoma.

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Your Guide To Milk Thistle Tea

Herbal teas are delightful treats that highlight the beauty of tea drinking with herbs, spices, and flowers. Milk thistle tea is one of the most popular herbal teas thanks to the plant’s storied health benefits.

Milk thistle tea is named after the creamy liquid that emerges from the leaves of the milk thistle plant when they are cut. The seeds of the milk thistle plant have been used for centuries as a natural remedy to treat liver disease.

This handy guide will show you everything you need to know about milk thistle tea. Discover the unique flavor profile and unearth the health benefits, side effects, and brewing techniques of milk thistle tea.

Nutrition: Whats In It

4 Insane Benefits Of MILK THISTLE & concerns. A herbalist’s favourite!

Its pretty hard to pin down exactly whats in your milk thistle tea, because it all depends on how much milk thistle you use, how hot the water is, and how long you let it steep.

But we do know that milk thistle itself contains a group of compounds known collectively as silymarin and it contains a LOT of these compounds .

Milk thistle seeds are also loaded with essential minerals like potassium, calcium, phosphorus, and chloride.

Lets get sily! Heres a quick roundup of the many potential benefits of thippin on the thistle:

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Side Effects Of Milk Thistle

As with a lot of supplements out there, milk thistle does have some side effects, though fortunately not many.

Some of the milk thistle side effects include the aforementioned ability to lower your blood sugar level. Whilst this may not be a bad thing in itself, if you are diabetic and dont consult your GP or adjust your medicine accordingly, this could have dangerous effects on your health.

It is advised that if you have hormone-sensitive conditions, then milk thistle might have oestrogenic effects, which could make some conditions worse, including some types of breast cancer.

If youre allergic to the milk thistle plant family, then it is advised that you dont consume it at all. If youre allergic to daisies, kiwi, or artichokes then you may be allergic to milk thistle as well.

In extreme and very rare cases, milk thistle can cause anaphylaxis. This is a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction: if you experience hives, rapid heartbeat, swelling , or shortness of breath after taking milk thistle or milk thistle supplements then seek immediate emergency help.

Some potential side effects of milk thistle include:

  • Stomach problems
  • Rashes
  • Sexual dysfunction
  • Headaches
  • Weakness

However milk thistle is considered to be safe in doses of up to 420mg per day, so overdosing on it will be quite a difficult thing to do.

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