MILK THISTLE PE

DESCRIPTION
Milk thistle is a plant that grows from 4-10 feet in height and is recognizable by its thick thistle, reddish-purple flowers, large prickly leaves, and tube-like pointy flowers. Milk thistle grows wild in many regions, and is typically found along roadsides and upon cultivated ground around the world. Milk thistle is an edible plant, and its leaves (minus the pricklies) can be eaten like artichokes. The seeds can be roasted and brewed like coffee. Silybum marianum has been used for over 2,000 years as a traditional medicine specifically for liver ailments. Milk thistle is rumored to have received its name because of its ability to stimulate milk production in women (don't worry, guys).

EFFICACY
Protects liver tissue
Aids in the regeneration of damaged liver tissue
Decreases liver and bile cholesterol
Alleviates inflammation
Limits liver damage resulting from a disrupted oxygen supply.

THEORY
Milk thistle contains a compound called silymarin, which is an antioxidant that scavenges damaging free radicals. Silymarin, as well as an isolated form of flavonolignan called silybin, has a particular effect in the liver where it can prevent or counteract damage to the liver caused by toxins such as alcohol, acetaminophen (Tylenol) and other therapeutics, as well as environmental and bacterial toxins, and poisons such as those found in the lethal Deathcap mushroom.