Milk Thistle Tea: Health Benefits and Risks

Milk thistle tea is milk derived from the plant Silybum marianum and has been traditionally used for many centuries. Its potential health benefits have made it a subject of interest in contemporary scientific research. However, it is important to understand both the benefits and risks associated with its use.

What are the Benefits of Milk Thistle Tea?

Milk thistle tea helps support liver health, reduces stress and can help regulate blood sugar levels. Milk thistle tea has been found to potentially reduce inflammation and assist with overall chronic disease prevention due to its antioxidant capacity.

Liver Health

Milk thistle tea’s most well-known benefit is aiding liver health. Dr Mark Blumenthal, Executive Director of the American Botanical Council, said “Milk thistle's active compound silymarin has shown hepatoprotective effects”. Studies show that silymarin can defend liver cells against toxins reduce inflammation and promote regeneration. According to a meta-analysis of clinical trials on patients with liver diseases like cirrhosis or hepatitis, silymarin supplementation resulted in significant improvements in liver function tests. Along with assisting with liver health, find out Does Milk Thistle Really Cure Hangovers?

Antioxidant Properties

The vital role played by antioxidants found in milk thistle tea towards neutralising free radicals as well as reducing oxidative stress cannot be overemphasized. Dr Maria Johnson, a researcher at the University of Manchester states “The antioxidant capacity of silymarin found in milk thistle tea could be responsible for its protective effects against chronic diseases.” Drinking milk thistle tea regularly is linked to helping reduce the risk of conditions such as heart disease and cancer by mitigating oxidative damage.

Insulin Sensitivity

There is emerging research that supports the positive effects of milk thistle tea on blood sugar control. A study published in Phytotherapy Research showed improvements in insulin sensitivity and glucose levels in type 2 diabetes patients, due to silymarin. This potential benefit makes it a subject of interest for further research into natural diabetes management strategies.

What are the Risk factors of Milk Thistle Tea?

Milk thistle tea can cause allergic reactions, particularly in individuals allergic to plants in the Asteraceae family, and may lead to gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhoea, nausea, or bloating. Additionally, it can interact with medications metabolised by the liver enzyme CYP3A4, such as statins, anticoagulants, and immunosuppressants, potentially leading to adverse effects. Those with known plant allergies, gastrointestinal sensitivities, or on specific medications should consult a healthcare provider before consuming milk thistle tea.

Allergic Reactions

Although milk thistle tea is generally considered safe, some people may develop an allergic reaction to it, especially those who are allergic to plants from the Asteraceae family such as ragweed and daisies. The signs and symptoms may include itching, rash or even anaphylaxis if the condition becomes severe. Dr Alice Reed, an allergist at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases states: “Those who have known plant allergies should be cautious when using milk thistle tea and consult their healthcare provider prior.”

Gastrointestinal Issues

Some people may experience gastrointestinal disturbances such as loose stool, nausea or bloating after drinking milk thistle tea. These side effects are usually mild but can be very uncomfortable for the affected individuals. For this reason, you should begin with lower doses before gradually increasing them so you can determine your tolerance level.

Drug Interactions

In one case, milk thistle tea interacts with some medicines metabolised by the liver enzyme, CYP3A4. Pharmacologist Dr Steven Wong reports, "Milk thistle can alter the metabolism of drugs, such as statins, anticoagulants and immunosuppressants, potentially leading to adverse effects. Patients consuming these drugs should discuss the use of milk thistle tea with a healthcare provider."

People Also Ask

Who should not drink milk thistle tea?

One can be allergic to plants of the family Asteraceae, with gastrointestinal diseases, and taking drugs metabolized by the enzyme CYP3A4.

Does milk thistle really cleanse the liver?

Milk thistle is known to protect the liver, but it does not detoxify or "cleanse" the liver. Clinical results support a hepatoprotective benefit from taking milk thistle, but it is not a detox treatment.

How often should I milk thistle tea?

Speak with your healthcare provider regarding the frequency you should be taking milk thistle tea. However, most people can consume milk thistle tea safely, in moderation, such as one or two times a day.

Conclusion

Milk thistle, through various anecdotal pieces of evidence, is said to provide different health benefits, most importantly, liver health and antioxidants. However, there are also all the risks this poses: allergic reactions, gastrointestinal issues, and possible interactions with other pharmaceuticals. Unquestionably, consulting a doctor before adding milk thistle tea to one's diet may be in order to make sure one's health needs are met. As with any supplement, balanced consumption and the monitoring of undesirable effects are integral to the maximization of benefits while minimizing risks. Milk thistle tea should be avoided by people who are allergic to plants of the Asteraceae family, and those with sensitive stomachs.