Health QM

Recent studies have shown milk thistle to be beneficial to those that suffer from various forms of cancer and milk thistle has been shown to reduce the liver damaging effects of chemotherapy. The unique plant also claims to reduce the liver damaging effects of chemotherapeutic drugs and clinical studies have shown that liver function tests can be improved in active hepatitis patients.

As well as the benefits of treating liver disease, other treatment claims include a remedy for body builders and is applied as a post oral steroid cycle therapy.

As a supplement that boasts to prevent, reduce and eliminate the effects of liver damage. Milk thistle also claims to reduce cholesterol levels as well as insulin resistance in people with type 2 diabetes and also those who have cirrhosis. Other benefits include reducing the growth of cancer cells in breast, cervical, and prostate cancers.

It is also found in many formulas that claim to reduce the effects of a hangover. The milk thistle extract has also been applied to individuals who are in the withdrawal stage from opiates; this is especially beneficial during the Acute Withdrawal Stage.

It was around the 16th century that the milk thistle supplement became quite popular. Almost all parts of the plant can be eaten. The roots can be eaten raw, or boiled and buttered or even roasted. The raw leaves are a great addition to salads but should be trimmed of prickles beforehand.

However, the milk thistle extract is now more popular as a health food supplement, Holland and Barrett offer a great range of health food supplements that can all be taken on the go. This is great news for those that operate a hectic lifestyle, as they will have no time to prepare the above.