Milk thistle supplements are popular for treating liver and kidney problems, but it’s important to read labels and know the correct dosage. Some versions are designed for specific ailments, and supplements come in various forms. Side effects can include gastrointestinal issues and changes in blood sugar levels.
Milk thistle is a type of herb most commonly used to treat kidney and liver problems. Although the herb has been around for centuries, supplement forms continue to grow in popularity and are used as alternative treatment methods for various ailments. When considering a milk thistle supplement, it’s important to know exactly what you’re taking and how much of the herb you should be taking. Supplements also come in a variety of forms, from tinctures to convenient capsules. You should stop taking a particular milk thistle supplement immediately if you experience any side effects.
Herbs are an integral part of alternative medicine, but certain types like milk thistle have been used for thousands of years. Milk thistle, or Silybum marianum, contains an active ingredient better known as silymarin. Some supplemental versions of the herb contain low percentages of silymarin, so it’s important to read all product labels carefully in advance.
When comparing milk thistle supplements, you’ll probably notice that some brands are specifically designed to help treat specific ailments. Milk thistle is most commonly used as part of a liver detox for conditions, such as hepatitis, or as a cure for excessive alcohol consumption. Some diabetics use milk thistle as a way to lower their blood sugar levels, but patients should check with their doctors first. The herb is also sometimes used to prevent kidney problems and cancer, although there is conflicting evidence of its effectiveness in curing any disease.
Another factor in determining the perfect milk thistle supplement is how you prefer to take the herb. The most common supplements are in capsule form, but the herb can also be mixed with other ingredients. If you are looking for a milk thistle supplement, you may want to consider choosing a liquid extract or tincture. Teas are not commonly made from milk thistle because hot water often reduces the effectiveness of the herb’s active ingredients.
As with any type of supplement or medication, milk thistle carries the risk of some side effects, the most common being gastrointestinal ailments, such as nausea and diarrhea. If you’re allergic to ragweed, then you could have a reaction to a milk thistle supplement because the herb belongs to the same type of family. Perhaps the most serious complications include changes in blood sugar levels, so be very careful if you have hypoglycemia and are taking prescription medications. You should call your doctor if you experience any side effects and stop taking any supplements immediately.
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