Milk thistle: therapeutic properties and contraindications

XXI century - a time of rapid change, new discoveries and technology. Unfortunately, with all these innovations and gadgets, the population of the planet has completely forgotten about their roots, that in ancient times, man was one with nature and lived in harmony with himself. This applies to all spheres of human activity and especially to health. In the pursuit of it, people try to have time to buy newfangled promising drugs, forgetting that the way to healing can sometimes be found in the simplest things - flowers, fruits, plants, herbs. An example is the wonderful herb thistle, which can help a person get rid of many diseases and become a miraculous elixir for maintaining health.

Chemical Composition

Spiny, but surprisingly useful plant has a unique composition of vitamins and minerals that can not only prevent the development of certain diseases, but also heal the body, giving it health. The chemical composition of milk thistle includes the following nutrients:

• B vitamins, A, D, E, K, H, C, F;
• manganese;
• potassium;
• boron;
• iron;
• zinc;
• selenium;
• potassium;
• calcium;
• silymarin;
• alkaloids;
• flavonoids;
• fatty oils;
• essential oils;
• lignans;
• proteins;
• resins;
• mucus;
• organic acids;
• biogenic amines;
• saponins;
• resins.

In total, the plant has about 300 useful substances that can affect almost all organs of the human body, destroying disease and maintaining health.

What it looks like and where it grows

Milk thistle has many names, but the most famous one that most residents of Central Russia know is thistle, and this is the genus to which it belongs. The plant was first discovered in Mediterranean countries such as Egypt, Turkey, France, Israel. Even in ancient times it was known in Albania, Yugoslavia, Bulgaria and the Iberian Peninsula. Now the herb has "taken over" the Western and Eastern European countries, Britain, South African lands, the central part of the African continent, the Central Asian regions, the southern regions of Russia, the Caucasus, the south of Siberia.

Milk thistle is perceived as a ubiquitous weed that quickly takes root and grows. It is usually about 1.5 m tall. The herb has a bare and straight stem with large leaves that can grow up to 80 cm, green in color and elliptical in shape. They grow alternately and have small yellowish spikes around the edges.

In July and August the thistle blooms in white, pink or purple flowers in a bowl shaped like a bowl wrapped in thorny green leaves. The inflorescences themselves resemble a fluffy ball.

Milk thistle, though it seems to be a very unsightly plant, but the benefits are enormous. According to legend, the Virgin herself told people about the amazing healing power of the herb.

Gathering and storage

Thistle bears fruit in small baskets, which remain on the stem after the flowering period is over (from mid-August to early October). This is due to the different climatic conditions of the regions where the herb grows. Not only the seeds should be harvested for medicinal purposes, but also the leaves and roots. There are different harvesting rules for each part of the plant:

1. The seeds are harvested from August to September. At this time, a soft white fuzz appears on the place of the inflorescence, which signals the time of fruiting. Such baskets should be carefully cut with scissors. Then carefully spread out on a thick parchment or lattice in a dry and ventilated room. But it is important to avoid strong air currents, as the seeds can be dispersed by their parachutes. Once the bolls have dried sufficiently, you can open them and remove the seeds, allowing them to finish drying in their "freed" state.
2. It is recommended to collect the leaves of the plant in the fall, when the fruiting is over. Choose healthy parts without traces of obvious damage, tear them from the stem, rinse and dry in a single layer on paper under a shed or indoors. You can also dry the raw material in an oven or dryer, but the processing temperature should not exceed 40°C.
3. The roots of the plant are harvested as early as October, after the seeds have broken out on their parachutes. These parts of milk thistle should be dug up without damaging their integrity, thoroughly washed and dried outdoors or in a dryer.

Despite the different timing and harvesting rules, there are general recommendations for harvesting:

1. Choose plants that grow away from highways and industrial plants.
2. Select healthy specimens with no injuries and traces of various pests.
3. Harvest raw material when it is dry.
4. Dry the product thoroughly, taking into account all recommendations.

Prepared dry parts are best placed in a glass container, which is tightly closed. But cardboard boxes or canvas storage bags are not excluded. The only exceptions are polyethylene and plastic or plastic. As for the timing, they are slightly different. So, the seeds can be used for 3 years, but the leaves and roots are stored for only one year.

If you follow all the right tips, thistle is sure to bring all its benefits and solve many health problems.

Therapeutic properties of milk thistle

An unsightly weed or a unique healer? The answer to this question should be sought by getting acquainted with all the possibilities of the medicinal plant, and they, thanks to the richest composition, are really impressive. Useful properties:

• treatment and prevention of liver diseases;
• Repair of damaged liver cells;
• excretion of toxins and waste products;
• Strengthening of the cardiovascular system;
• The normalization of lipid metabolism;
• weight regulation;
• reduction of sugar levels;
• strengthening of the body's immune system;
• Prevention of aging processes;
• activation of bile secretion and acceleration of its excretion;
• Improvement of the gastrointestinal tract, by relieving inflammation of the mucous membranes;
• diuretic effect;
• elimination of constipation;
• wound-healing property;
• prevention and treatment of ulcers;
• anti-burn therapy;
• treatment of diarrhea.

And this is only the overall effect of thistle, but it also has the ability to affect the body depending on the gender and age of the patient. Therefore, for women's, men's and children's bodies, the herb has a directed benefit.

For women

Women are weak and vulnerable creatures, and therefore their body needs additional protection and prevention of various diseases. In addition to its basic capabilities, milk thistle will help women normalize the nervous system, protect the liver, including from the effects of taking hormones and contraceptives, to get rid of certain gynecological diseases (vaginitis, erosion, etc.), to lose excess weight, increase sex drive, protect against cancer, clean the skin, prolonging its youth, and strengthen hair and nails. In addition, during menopause, the plant will provide prevention of osteoporosis.

All of the above properties of milk thistle make it indispensable for the restoration and preservation of women's health.

For men

Since milk thistle is a natural and powerful hepatoprotector, and men are lovers of relaxing with a shot of hot drinks, they are just made for each other. The fact is that thistle perfectly protects the liver from the harmful effects of alcohol, thereby leveling the harm to health.

But that's not all! The product has a positive effect on potency, increasing it, gets rid of hemorrhoids, constipation, sciatica, minimizes the effects of harmful substances on the human body. Also, the herb will help restore strength and increase stamina. So men, especially lovers of alcohol and beautiful women, should take a closer look at thistle, and not bypass the "thorn" side!

When pregnant

Every expectant mother, carrying her baby, cares about its proper and safe development. Therefore, women carefully monitor everything that surrounds them, that gets to them in the daily diet, as well as carefully study the medicines that can not only benefit but also harm the baby. And here milk thistle has exactly a double effect.

The plant is able to relieve or reduce the symptoms of toxicity, improve metabolism, eliminate constipation, normalize the nervous system, protect the liver and heart. But, unfortunately, the plant is not recommended for use in this state, because it contains potent substances that can harm the developing person. It is especially dangerous in the early term. Although sometimes in the first trimester, doctors still prescribe thistle for intake, but they calculate all possible risks for the mother and the baby. Also, the product can be used in the third trimester, but only strictly by indication and prescription of the doctor.

Thus, the ban on taking the herb during pregnancy is conditional, but due to the lack of sufficient information about the effect of the plant on the fetus, physicians recommend to abandon preparations containing milk thistle, in order to avoid possible irreversible consequences. In any case, before taking the product necessarily need to consult a specialist!

When breastfeeding

During breastfeeding, women care about the quality, fat content and quantity of breast milk, because it depends on it the health and proper formation of the baby. Milk thistle really helps to increase milk production, but its use in the lactation period is contraindicated. This is due to the fact that the little body has just begun its final formation, and therefore the impact of the herb can affect it negatively. In this case, the degree of risk is not reliably studied, and the consequences may not be predictable.

Therefore, young mothers should consult a specialist and only then start taking the drug. If one is prescribed, the recommended dose must be strictly adhered to in order to avoid possible health risks for the small, still fragile body of the child.

For children

The younger generation needs more protection than the adult population of the planet. Milk thistle will help children to strengthen the immune system, normalize metabolism, improve intestinal function, regulate the nervous system, protect the liver, cope with skin problems, get rid of constipation, restore flora, help with pigmentation disorders.

However, taking the drug is indicated after the child reaches 12 years of age. Usually experts prescribe it in a capsule version twice a day. Also give a decoction or meal. The latter can be used from 3 years of age at 0.5 tsp. twice a day. Decoction is drunk with milk at the same age as the meal. But the treatment must be coordinated with the doctor, who will determine the exact dosage and the necessity of its use. The self-taking of milk thistle can lead to negative consequences, because the growing organism continues the process of its formation, so the impact of the plant is unpredictable.

When losing weight

Most women and men, seeking to acquire the figure of their dreams, losing weight, risk harming the body by missing important nutrients, as well as by upsetting the balance of functions in the body. Taking thistle has a positive effect during the weight loss period:

1. The caloric value of the product is 335 kcal per 100 g of powder, which makes the plant a dietary and useful product.
2. Removal of toxins and toxins helps to start the process of weight loss.
3. The herb supports the condition of the skin, which can become flabby during the diet.
4. Cleansing the liver with milk thistle prevents the deposition of fat.
5. The use of the plant helps to normalize the hormonal background, thereby eliminating the possible cause of excess weight.
6. The laxative effect also accompanies cleansing and the fight against excess weight.
7. Normalization of the metabolism also leads to ideal body parameters.

All these amazing properties of milk thistle help thinners to achieve positive results much faster, without damaging their health, but only supporting and protecting it naturally.

What is the usefulness of milk thistle honey

Milk thistle not only has beneficial properties and acts as a weed, but is also an excellent honeybee. Unfortunately, honey from it is a fairly rare product, nevertheless it is unique and useful, as well as the plant itself.

Milk thistle honey is transparent. It may have yellow-white, gold, or dark amber hues. Its aroma is tart and floral, but not particularly obvious. The taste may not be very sweet or sugary, but in both cases it is delicate and mild. Within 2 months, the sweetness thickens, taking on a creamy or delicate yellow color. It cannot be eaten much, but when added to tea or cottage cheese, you can feel the whole magnificent range of flavor.

Thistle honey has a very wide list of health benefits, which include:

• B vitamins, A, K, C;
• tocopherols;
• potassium;
• sodium;
• manganese;
• iodine;
• selenium;
• copper;
• phosphorus;
• flavonolignans;
• flavonoids;
• tannins;
• resins;
• antioxidants;
• organic and inorganic acids;
• tyramine;
• histamine.

The caloric value of this delicacy is considered to be lower than that of the usual varieties, and is only 300 kcal.

The peculiarity of this product is in its composition, with which other varieties can not compete. It is this difference and other nutrients endowed honey with the following properties:

• strengthening the immune system;
• improvement of metabolism;
• restoration of intestinal microflora;
• elimination of inflammatory processes;
• elimination and reduction of pain syndromes;
• normalization of the nervous system;
• wound-healing properties;
• treatment of purulent inflammation;
• Improvement, restoration and treatment of the liver, as well as cell regeneration of the organ;
• decrease in blood pressure;
• normalization of the cardiovascular system.

This effect honey can have thanks to its content of silmarin, alkaloids, tannins and other, rare for honey nutrients. But despite all its benefits, the product is not recommended for use in patients with diabetes, allergies or cholelithiasis in the acute phase.

To achieve the best results, experts advise to eat 1 or 2 tbsp a day, adding the sweet "medicine" to tea or milk. At the same time it should not be heated more than 60°C.

These are the main useful properties and rules of use of a wonderful, sweet and incredibly useful delicacy of thistle.

The benefits of milk thistle urbeche

At the outset, it should be explained that milk thistle is a special paste from the seeds of the plant, ground with the help of stone grinders without the use of mechanized equipment. It is this method that allows you to increase the healing power of the product, further activating its useful qualities.

Milk thistle seed vinaigrette is a unique product in its properties and taste. It is distinguished by its tart, sweet taste with nutty notes and aroma of herbs. It perfectly quenches the hunger, satiating the body with fiber and filling it with strength and health. The miraculous properties of the paste "rely" on its composition, which is found in:

• B vitamins, A, PP, K, H, F;
• stearic, oleic, linoleic acids;
• flavonoids;
• iodine;
• chlorine;
• magnesium;
• fluorine;
• zinc;
• manganese;
• selenium;
• phosphorus;
• essential oils;
• hormone-like enzymes.

Such a list of useful vitamins and minerals allows Urbech to have a beneficial effect on human health. The product is easily digested by the body and can be considered quite dietary. Its main property is considered to be the ability to influence the human liver, restoring its damaged cells and maintaining the condition of the organ in general.

But this is not all of its useful properties:

• Normalization of the work of the gastrointestinal tract;
• acceleration of metabolic processes;
• excretion of toxins;
• prevention of aging processes;
• Prevention of salt deposits;
• Acceleration of bile excretion from the body;
• normalization and prevention of blood vessels;
• regulation of blood sugar;
• prevention of metastases;
• relief of the effects of chemotherapy;
• improvement of blood composition;
• treatment and prevention of inflammatory processes of the skin;
• normalization of the cardiovascular system.

It is difficult to overestimate all the possibilities of Urbech, but it also has "pitfalls" or contraindications. For example, epilepsy, heart rhythm disorders, shortness of breath, bronchial spasms (or predisposition to them), individual intolerance to the product is not recommended for use. In addition, consultation is also necessary for urolithiasis and cholelithiasis.

In other cases, it can only be beneficial, of course, with moderate consumption.

Is milk thistle flour useful?

Grinded into a powder thistle grain is a flour, which also has a useful composition of micro- and macronutrients, aimed at healing and maintaining human health. Such nutrients include:

• B vitamins, A, E, K, D;
• lavonoids;
• fatty acids.

The list, of course, is smaller than that of urbache or raw product. This is due to the fact that during processing some of the useful elements are lost, but those that remain have the following effect on the body:

• wound healing;
• antioxidant;
• regenerating and protecting liver cells;
• that strengthens the immune system;
• antiviral;
• metabolism booster;
• regulating the cardiovascular system;
• normalizing reproductive function;
• Improves digestion;
• prevents atherosclerosis and allergies;
• Improves the condition of the epidermis and hair.
• Contraindications to use may include:
• children under 12 years of age;
• pregnancy;
• individual intolerance;
• gastrointestinal diseases in the acute phase.

Also remember that for the treatment of specific diseases provides its own dose, prescribed by a specialist, and for preventive purposes, it is recommended to use no more than 2 tbsp. product per day, and it is necessary to interrupt the reception for two or three days. Following all the advice and recommendations of experts, a miracle powder will help to get rid of some diagnoses, prevent the onset of disease, maintain health, beauty and youth!

Milk thistle in folk medicine

In ancient times there were no medicines, so the wise folk healers healed with the help of natural preparations, the recipes of which have survived to this day and are still used to treat patients.

Milk thistle has also been known since ancient times. It was and is used, using past experience, to treat ailments such as:

• hepatitis;
• gastritis;
• cholecystitis;
• psoriasis;
• edema;
• acne;
• varicose veins;
• joint pains;
• diabetes mellitus;
• cholelithiasis;
• thyroid dysfunction;
• varicose veins;
• hemorrhoids;
• hair loss;
• diseases of the cardiovascular system;
• diseases of the urogenital system;
• decreased sexual activity;
• dropsy;
• excretion of toxins;
• consequences of radiation and chemical therapy;
• body intoxication (including alcohol, drugs, etc.)
• acute food poisoning;
• burns;
• skin inflammations;
• overweight.

This amazing plant is able to cope with all these diseases and has repeatedly proved its effectiveness.

There are dozens of recipes that, despite the antiquity of its origin, and in today's world have not lost their relevance.

In case of diabetes mellitus

Diabetes mellitus is a serious diagnosis, in which the patient is forced to refuse many dishes and products, so as not to cause complications of his condition. Milk thistle is able to reduce blood sugar levels, and therefore preparations based on it are not prohibited for use by diabetics. Also with this diagnosis, the herb helps to regulate blood glucose levels, activate the production of leukogen, which fights the disease, normalize hormonal, nervous system and gastrointestinal function, reduce cholesterol, protect the musculoskeletal system, prevent strokes, atherosclerosis and have a beneficial effect on the overall condition of the patient. All these qualities make the plant an irreplaceable medicinal remedy to combat diabetes.

There are many known recipes with thistle for the treatment of diabetes.

Classic recipe
Ingredients:

• milk thistle meal - 30 g;
• Boiling water - 500 ml.

Combine the components and heat in a water bath for 15 minutes. During this time the volume should decrease in volume to 2 times. Next, filter the drug and cool. Such a remedy to take every time after a meal, 1 tbsp.

In pancreatitis

Inflammation of the pancreas forces the patient to strictly monitor his diet and fulfill all the prescriptions of a specialist, because the complexity and danger of the diagnosis involve serious and dangerous consequences. Thistle in such a disease is a powerful means to regulate the work of the organ and its recovery. Selenium and silymarin, which are part of the composition, perfectly eliminate the inflammatory process, help the excretion of bile, normalize the overall condition of the pancreas. In addition, choleretic, diaphoretic, diuretic and laxative properties have a beneficial complex effect on the damaged gland, thereby helping to defeat the disease.

The herb is taken in any form, relying on your preferences, as well as on the advice of a specialist.

The most popular is considered such a remedy:

• Milk thistle seeds - 1 tsp;
• Boiling water - 250 ml.

Ingredients combine in a tightly closed container (better to use a thermos) and soak the drink for 60 minutes. Use the composition three times a day for half a cup before each meal.

With gastritis

Gastritis is one of the most common diagnoses. Nervous stresses, an incomplete and irregular diet, predisposition and viruses lead to the occurrence of this disease. Milk thistle, whose amazing composition and properties allow it to cope with this disease, can also be an aid in the fight against the disease. With gastritis, the herb improves the digestive process, reduces the risk of malignant tumors, removes toxins, relieves inflammation, has an antibacterial effect, protects from the effects of stress. The product is especially recommended for use by those with increased acidity, as thistle regulates the secretion of gastric juice, preventing additional irritation of the damaged tissue.

The juice of the fresh herb is usually used in the treatment of gastritis. It is mixed with 250 ml of warm water in an amount of 1 tsp. and used up to 6 times a day for 2 tbsp. The treatment lasts about 30 days.

For the intestines

Problems in the work of the intestines do not allow the body to exist fully. Diseases of the organ can be eliminated by taking milk thistle as a remedy that cleanses the body of toxins and slags, normalizes the process of defecation, eliminates inflammation, relieves mucosal irritation and restores healthy microflora.

Take thistle for the treatment of the intestine is better in the form of meal, 1 tsp. up to 4 times a day. In this case, the dose and duration of the recovery process should be established by a specialist, because if the daily rate is exceeded, the condition can worsen due to additional irritation of the mucosa.

In constipation

It is established that in the treatment of constipation, milk thistle has repeatedly proved the effectiveness of its use. The plant has a laxative effect and at the same time does not harm the liver. It normalizes the defecation process by softening the feces, also preventing damage to the intestinal walls.

Most often for the treatment of such a delicate problem is prescribed the use of both the herb meal and oil. The meal is mixed with warm water in the following ratio: 1 tsp of raw materials for 120 ml of liquid. The infusion is taken half an hour before a meal in the morning on an empty stomach.

Also for the elimination of the disease take the seeds and even the leaves of the plant, which, if desired, can be added, for example, to a salad, making the dish not only interesting in taste, but also useful!

In gout

Gout - a disease though "royal", but unpleasant, in addition, very insidious. People suffering from this disease, it will be useful to buy thistle seeds and undergo a course of treatment with remedies made from these raw materials. First of all, the effectiveness of such preparations is due to the zinc, vitamin E and carotenoids contained in them. It is these substances that activate the process of collagen production, which is the main component in the "construction" of composite cartilage and ligaments. Moreover, anti-inflammatory and diuretic effects have a complex effect on the body, removing excess fluid, preventing the deposition of salts and having a restorative effect.

One of the ways to treat the ailment is the use of tincture of the seeds of the plant. For its preparation you will need:

• milk thistle seeds - 30 g;
• Alcohol - 300 ml.

Wash the seeds and combine with alcohol. Cover a glass jar and insist in the dark for 14 days. Filter the finished product and squeeze the seeds of the plant. Take 3 to 5 times a day at 25 drops dissolved in 100 ml of liquid (preferably water), half an hour before a meal for 30 days.

In colitis

This diagnosis involves inflammation of the colon. Thistle can be used to treat this disease, if not as the main medicine, then as a good and experienced auxiliary, having a beneficial effect on the damaged organ. It is better to use oil, because it has an enveloping quality, thereby reducing inflammation and protecting the walls from additional irritation. In addition, the product has wound healing and regenerating abilities.

Thus, the use of milk thistle oil will help the patient to quickly cope with the disease and defeat the unpleasant diagnosis.

During the 30-day course, you need to take 1.5 tsp of the product twice a day (morning and evening) for a quarter of an hour before meals.

Also recommended are enemas with 30 ml of oil. But still, before using the remedies should consult with a specialist who has enough experience and the necessary knowledge to select the correct and complete course of treatment.

For the liver

The unique capabilities of milk thistle, which can heal from many diseases, are primarily aimed at treating and restoring the liver. Thanks to its wonderful list of nutrients, and most importantly silymarin, the thistle weed is a natural hepatoprotector. The plant not only helps to get rid of cirrhosis, hepatitis, intoxication of the organ and other dangerous diseases, but also restores the liver cells, keeping it healthy. Taxiphalene and flavonoids guard the health of the liver, preventing cell death and promoting the emergence of new cells. In addition, milk thistle improves all metabolic processes, removes toxins, activates the production of proteins and RNA-polymerase. The plant is prescribed for the following hepatic diagnoses:

• dystrophy;
• alcohol or drug intoxication;
• hepatitis A, B, C;
• cirrhosis;
• cancerous diseases;
• traumatic injuries.

Treatment with the herb should be prescribed by a doctor who has an idea of the general picture of a particular pathology and the peculiarities of the course of the patient's disease.

As a rule, take either capsules or an oil composition. The latter is used in an amount of 2 tsp. per day for 60 days, then interrupted for 37 days and repeat the course.

Hemorrhoids

Sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy diet, pregnancy and childbirth, varicose veins and predisposition are all causes of hemorrhoidal vein dilation or hemorrhoids.

Milk thistle can also cope with such a diagnosis, thanks to the presence of omega-6 and omega-9, zinc, manganese, flavonoids. These substances increase the elasticity of blood vessels, get rid of cholesterol plaques, normalize the defecation process, eliminate inflammation and have an antibacterial effect.

The recommended treatment consists of three steps, the first of which should be a purging enema with 20 liters of water. This is followed by an enema with 30 ml of thistle oil. And the final stage is a diet.

You can also take a decoction of milk thistle seeds to further maintain the elasticity of the veins, prevent inflammation, reduce the risk of blood clots, as well as to avoid fungal infections.

For cholecystitis.

Gallbladder inflammation is an inflammatory condition. That is why thistle is a popular remedy for the treatment of this diagnosis, not only among representatives of folk medicine, but also official medicine.

A wide range of useful substances helps the plant to relieve inflammation, remove bile, get rid of spasms in the biliary system, destroy stones in the organ, preventing their reappearance, as well as eliminate the causative agents. In addition, milk thistle regulates the production of bile, cleanses the blood, removes harmful substances and protects the liver. And therefore its use in this case is simply necessary.

Most often for the treatment of cholecystitis, a tincture of the seeds of the herb is used:

• Milk thistle seeds - 20 g;
• Alcohol - 200 ml.

Wash the seeds and combine with alcohol. Cover a glass jar and insist in the dark for 14 days. Filter the finished product and squeeze the seeds of the plant. The remedy to take up to 5 times a day, 25 drops dissolved in 50 ml of liquid (water). Consumption should occur half an hour before a meal for 30 days.

For joints

Joint diseases and pain associated with these conditions are well treated with milk thistle, whose composition of useful micro- and macronutrients helps to cope with such problems. For example, milk thistle is useful for joints due to the following properties:

• pain relief;
• reduction of inflammatory processes;
• activation of collagen production;
• restoration of damaged bone tissues;
• elimination of muscle pain and cramps.

For treatment you need to use the sprout. The necessary amount is 30 g per glass of boiling water. Then combine the components and warm with a water bath for half an hour, then insist the same amount of time. Decoction then filtered and used no more than 5 times a day for half an hour before meals, 1 tbsp. Course duration - 3 weeks. A total of 2 courses, between which there should be a two-week break.

Varicose veins

Varicose veins - a fairly common diagnosis not only in women, but also in men. Thistle and in this case will be beneficial. It will relieve fatigue, eliminate swelling, improve the elasticity of blood vessels, reduce the risk of blood clots and have a positive effect on the whole body.

An excellent and very effective remedy for the disease is the same alcoholic tincture:

• milk thistle seeds - 10 g;
• Alcohol - 100 ml.

How to use:

1. Wash the seeds and combine with alcohol.
2. Cover a glass jar and insist in the dark for 14 days, shaking the composition occasionally.
3. Filter the finished product and squeeze the seeds of the plant.

The remedy to take 5 times a day, 20 drops dissolved in 50 ml of liquid (water). Consumption should take place half an hour before a meal for 30 days. Then it is necessary to make a 14-day break and repeat the course again. In total, it is recommended to make 6 repetitions.

From coughs

Milk thistle helps to get rid of many ailments, among which there is a cough. It does not matter the nature of the disease. It can be a smoker's cough, viral, cold or related to the interaction of harmful substances in the environment. The plant will relieve spasm, prevent edema, destroy viral pathogens, remove harmful toxins and slags, reduce the risk of tumors, as well as help the immune system to cope with viruses.

When coughing, you can take either an alcoholic tincture or decoction of the herb, for which you will need:

• milk thistle meal - 3 tsp;
• Water - 0.5 liters.

Combine the components and bring to a boil on a water bath, then simmer for another half hour. Then strain the broth and drink it hot with the addition of a spoonful of honey.

With psoriasis

This diagnosis is considered difficult to cure. But even here, thistle thorns have their magical healing effect. With psoriasis, the plant cleanses the intestines, relieves inflammation, strengthens the immune system, eliminates and helps to heal wounds and psoriatic plaques, moistens the skin, gets rid of itching and peeling.

Patients are usually recommended to use thistle seed oil. It is taken internally (1 tsp. 3 times daily 30 minutes before a meal), and externally (smeared on the damaged areas of the product warm twice a day, leaving it for 30 minutes on the skin, then removed with a cotton pad).

For parasites

Antihelminthic treatment can be made with both medicines and remedies of folk medicine. Milk thistle can serve in this case as a good auxiliary means of complex therapy, because it revitalizes the liver, where, in fact, the "enjoy life" of helminths, removes toxins and waste products of harmful parasites. But it is not able to eliminate the last ones from the body.

As an additional drug, you can take an infusion of the plant, pouring a glass of steep boiling water 1 tsp. The composition should stand for 30 minutes. Then filter it and drink 250 ml three times a day. If you continue treatment for about 3 months, the liver is able to cleanse itself completely.

Types of medicinal compositions

The seeds, leaves and roots of thistle have medicinal power, as do the products prepared from the parts of the wonderful and so useful for human health plant. The action of oil, meal, infusion, etc. is similar, since all the listed compositions have almost identical properties.

Infusion

Thistle infusion is taken for most diseases that the herb can treat. It perfectly cleanses the liver, restores the immune system, reduces sugar and cholesterol levels, removes toxins and impurities, and normalizes the cardiovascular system. It is also used as a means to strengthen hair, nails, as well as to preserve the youthfulness of the skin.

To prepare the infusion, you need to take 1 tsp. milk thistle meal and pour 250 ml of boiling water. Then let the composition to stand for about 15 minutes, then filter and add water to obtain the original volume of the product.

Most often infusions are consumed about 3-5 times a day before meals.

Tincture

Cooked alcoholic tincture is also used for all diseases that can cure the plant. Of course, it should not be given to children, as well as to pregnant and lactating women. In other cases, its use will help to get rid of pain syndromes, coughs, inflammation, etc. It should be remembered that the remedy is very concentrated and potent, so when using it, take up to 25 drops at a time, combining them with water.

The tincture can be prepared both in alcohol and in vodka. At home, more often prepare an elixir on a vodka base. It requires taking 50 grams of herb meal and 0.5 liters of vodka. Combine the components in a glass jar, which should be placed in the dark for 14 days, then filtered and placed in the refrigerator for storage.

Decoction

Decoction is used in the same cases as the infusion. It is more gentle than the tincture, but no less effective.

For its preparation you need the following components:

• milk thistle meal - 1 tbsp;
• Boiling water - 200 ml.

Boiling water to combine with the plant, and then bring to a boil in a water bath and heat for 20 minutes. Then cool the decoction for about 10 minutes, filter and then add water to reach the original volume of the product.

Tea

Thistle tea is an excellent remedy for eliminating toxins and detoxes, strengthening the immune system and maintaining the nervous system.

You can buy a ready-to-drink product or make it yourself. This will require 1 tbsp. seeds of the plant and 1 cup of boiling water. Combine the components and infuse for 20 minutes. After that, filter the tea and drink half a cup twice a day. If desired, add mint leaves, dried fruit, honey and other ingredients that improve the slightly bitter taste of the drink.

The ointment .

This product is intended for external use. It has an excellent wound-healing effect, able to get rid of sores, accelerate the process of healing wounds, eliminate the effects of burns, as well as help the beautiful sex in getting rid of "heel" cracks.

To prepare the ointment will require:

• olive oil - 500 ml;
• Milk thistle seeds - 5 tbsp.

Mix the components with each other and put on a water bath for 15 minutes. Then give the composition time to cool, and filter the ointment with a thick layer of gauze. Squeeze the remaining cake thoroughly into the resulting preparation.

Store the remedy in a glass jar tightly closed, trying to use it within 2-3 days.

How to take thistle meal

For the manufacture of funds from milk thistle is mainly used meal - a residual product obtained by processing the seeds and making oil from them by cold pressing. The meal differs from the powder in that its composition is reduced amount of oils, but increased content of fiber. Its medicinal properties include:

• antioxidant;
• regenerating;
• restorative;
• anti-toxic;
• anti-inflammatory;
• strengthening.

Its help to the body is invaluable, but there are also diagnoses in which the use of meal is contraindicated:

• epilepsy;
• Children under 12 years of age;
• Pregnancy and lactation;
• pathology of the biliary tract;
• cholelithiasis;
• Individual intolerance to the product;
• chronic diseases.

In other cases, before using, if there are any abnormalities in the body, it is better to consult with a specialist who can accurately determine the dose of the product and the possibility of its use.

When using the product on its own, it is worthwhile to use the general rules of taking the meal:

1. Complete rejection of alcohol in any form.
2. Consumption for preventive purposes and for treatment, excluding liver disease, should correspond to the following proportion: 1 g of the product per 1 kg of weight. This ratio is considered by experts to be optimal. With liver disorders, the dose should establish only a physician.
3. The meal is taken 5 times a day.
4. It is better to use homemade meal.

These tips will help to determine the correct dose of the drug and restore health.

Thistle oil: properties and applications

Thistle oil is a miraculous elixir, aimed at preserving the health and beauty of mankind. The product is made from the seeds of the plant using a procedure of cold pressing, and its beneficial effect is due to the amazing content of useful nutrients, which include:

• vitamins K and E;
• phytosterols;
• flavonoids;
• tyramine;
• histamine;
• omega-6 and omega-9;
• stearic, palmitic, arachic, and behenic acids;
• manganese;
• potassium;
• phosphorus;
• magnesium;
• chromium;
• selenium;
• copper;
• zinc;
• aluminum;
• boron;
• iron.

Thanks to this list of substances, the oil has many possibilities:

• strengthens the immune system;
• preserves and enhances vitality;
• increases resistance to viral attacks;
• restores organs and functions of almost all body systems;
• eliminates toxins and impurities;
• speeds up the healing process;
• Reduces the risk of cancer;
• Regulates the nervous system, cardiovascular system;
• Lowers cholesterol levels;
• normalizes lipid metabolism;
• Reduces the risk of blood clots;
• lowers blood pressure;
• strengthens blood vessels;
• heals hemorrhoids;
• normalizes the function of the gastrointestinal tract;
• Fights skin imperfections;
• Restores reproductive function;
• Treats diseases of the mouth.

The unique drug is able to benefit the whole body, but it should be used depending on the diagnosis and treatment process. The course and rate is set by a specialist with the appropriate education and experience in using the product. In addition, it is necessary to purchase only a quality product for treatment, which must meet the following rules:

• glass transparent container;
• yellow-green color, bitter taste;
• production by cold pressing;
• The extract of the plant - not less than 80%.

Such a remedy is stored in the refrigerator for about a year and used without fear of harming the body.

Cosmetology applications

Cosmetologists appreciate the uniqueness of milk thistle and its ability to restore skin elasticity, maintaining its beauty and youthfulness, eliminate inflammation and fight rashes, protect against the harmful effects of the environment, maintain water balance, and strengthen the hair.

Milk thistle is contained in many cosmetic products, but it is better and more correct to make them at home, using only natural materials, available and no less effective than store products.

For problematic skin.

The oils included are:

• milk thistle;
• olive oil;
• almond;
• grape;
• peach;
• apricot oil.

Mix all ingredients in equal parts and apply to clean skin every day.

Anti-wrinkle

Ingredients:

• milk thistle oil - 3 parts;
• Avocado oil - 1 part.

Mix the components and warm up a little. Then take a cloth and soak it in the mixture, then apply the cloth mask on the face and decollete area for 40 minutes. At the end of the procedure, rinse the composition with warm water.

Peeling

Ingredients:

• oil thistle - 1 tbsp;
• milk thistle seeds - 8 tsp.

Crush the seeds, warm the oil. Combine the components, rub into the skin and wait a quarter of an hour. Remove the remains with a napkin.

For hair

Ingredients:

• milk thistle oil - 10 ml;
• rose oil - 2 drops;
• Shampoo - 100 ml.

Add the oils to your favorite shampoo, mix and after 10 minutes, wash your hair in the usual way.

These recipes seem simple, but their effectiveness is really amazing, so you should definitely try to apply milk thistle to maintain healthy hair and skin.

Can we give milk thistle to animals

Thistle is useful not only for people, but also for animals. In their feeds, parts of the plant are specially added in order to prevent and maintain a healthy liver. In this case, the rates are calculated based on the weight of the animal. Most often, take a fraction of the daily rate for a person and add it to the dog or cat food.

If there is no desire to calculate the dose yourself, you can buy a ready-made product already with the addition of the plant, calculated on the breed and weight of the animal.

Contraindications for use

The usefulness of thistle cannot be overestimated. But still this practically omnipotent plant has its disadvantages. The use of the herb is contraindicated in the following conditions and diseases:

• chronic ailments (asthma, pancreatitis, cholecystitis);
• mental disabilities;
• epilepsy;
• shortness of breath;
• liver cramps;
• individual intolerance;
• Pregnancy and lactation;
• children under 12 years of age.

As for side effects, they can manifest as a small disorder of intestinal function or heaviness in the liver area, but this is quite rare.

So, the "ubiquitous weed" or "harmful thorn" actually turned out to be the most unique thistle, given to preserve and restore human health.

Photo of milk thistle