Milk thistle, scientifically known as Silybum marianum, has been revered for centuries for its medicinal properties. This prickly plant with purple flowers is much more than just a pretty addition to the garden. The primary compounds in milk thistle, notably silymarin, are believed to offer a range of health benefits. It is a herbal remedy that has antioxidant, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.

In Ayurveda, milk thistle is known as “dudh patra'' and has a host of therapeutic properties. Ayurveda vouches for its medicinal values in treating liver disorders, gallstones, shielding the liver from the effects of alcohol and for promoting lactation, besides flushing out toxins. Lifetree Milk Thistle capsules are the best Milk Thistle capsules available online in India that have shown to promote overall health and well-being.

Should I take Milk Thistle?

Milk Thistle is used for a variety of reasons in the human body, and one of its great benefits is its versatility, from supporting the body's natural detoxification to the body's immunity.

1. Detoxification

Milk Thistle supports detoxification of liver and protects it from dangerous toxins that may cause damage to liver cells. Silymarin, the active ingredient in Milk Thistle, supports the production of 'glutathione' which is the body's major detoxification enzyme. Research has shown it to help control the permeability of liver cells, helping to prevent toxins from entering the liver cells and causing damage.

2. Liver disease

Milk Thistle is widely used for liver diseases such as 'cirrhosis of the liver' and 'non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)'. Silymarin helps stimulate liver regeneration, inhibiting the formation of fibroblasts (which cause cirrhosis), and can have an anti-inflammatory effect.

3. Digestion

There are a number of benefits for digestion from Milk Thistle. It stimulates the production of digestive juices including stomach acid and bile, which are vital for the effective breakdown of foods. So, it is a popular ingredient to relieve bloating that occurs after meals. It also supports effective gastrointestinal movement, helping your body move food along at an appropriate pace which keeps the gut flora in check and bloating at bay. Silymarin is extensively metabolized in the intestines by gut bacteria and may promote wider gastrointestinal health.

4. Mental health

As Milk Thistle influences digestion, it also has an indirect effect on the gut-brain axis. The gut-brain axis is the intricate interconnection between gut health and mental health. Neurotransmitters and hormones such as serotonin originate from the gut, traveling to the brain where it influences our mood, motivation and appetite. A healthy mind starts with a healthy gut.

5. Immunity

Silymarin from Milk Thistle is believed to be 'immuno-modulatory' and anti-inflammatory, and may be of use to those who have autoimmune conditions and inflammatory diseases.

Our overall health is only as good as our gut health and the nutrients our body absorbs from food we eat. Our body relies on these nutrients for all the essential biological processes, so good digestion is much more important than most people think, and a helping hand from Milk Thistle can go a long way to improving digestion. Introducing Lifetree Milk Thistle capsules/supplements into your regimen is a positive step towards a healthy lifestyle, however, consulting with a healthcare professional is essential. In the world of natural remedies, Milk Thistle undeniably holds a distinguished position.