Why don’t doctors recommend milk thistle?
Clinical efficacy of milk thistle is not clearly established. Interpretation of the evidence is hampered by poor study methods and/or poor quality of reporting in publications. Substances in milk thistle have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help the liver generate new cells and protect itself. Milk thistle is good for liver disease, indigestion, acne, brain health, and breast milk production and it is safe enough to take daily.Researchers believe that a compound called silymarin in milk thistle has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties. Consequently, it may help prevent or treat various health conditions, including it might: Slow or prevent age-related decreases in brain function.Protect the liver. Milk thistle supplements may be useful in combination with other treatments for liver damage. Studies have indicated that it can improve liver function for people with liver diseases. Researchers believe it may reduce free radicals that develop as the liver metabolizes toxins.