Milk Thistle for Psoriasis: Benefits, Dosage, and Side Effects
Many psoriasis sufferers turn to natural remedies to help alleviate symptoms. One such remedy is milk thistle, a plant that has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. In this guide, we'll explore the benefits of milk thistle for psoriasis, how to take it, and potential side effects to be aware of.
What is Milk Thistle and How Does it Work?
Milk thistle is a plant that has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. It is native to the Mediterranean region and has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including liver problems, gallbladder issues, and even psoriasis. The active ingredient in milk thistle is a flavonoid called silymarin, which is believed to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Silymarin is thought to help protect liver cells from damage and may also have a positive effect on the immune system. While more research is needed to fully understand how milk thistle works, it is believed to have a number of health benefits, including potential benefits for psoriasis.
Benefits of Milk Thistle for Psoriasis
There have been some studies on the use of milk thistle for psoriasis, but more research is needed to determine its effectiveness. Some studies have shown that milk thistle may help reduce inflammation and improve symptoms of psoriasis, but more research is needed to confirm these findings.
Milk thistle may offer several benefits for individuals with psoriasis. Milk thistle contains a compound called silymarin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These properties can help reduce the inflammation and redness associated with psoriasis. Silymarin also helps to protect the liver, which is important for people with psoriasis as some medications used to treat the condition can be hard on the liver. Milk thistle may also help protect the liver from damage caused by certain medications used to treat psoriasis. Some studies have also suggested that milk thistle may help boost the immune system, which could be beneficial for individuals with psoriasis, as the condition is believed to be caused by an overactive immune system. However, more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits of milk thistle for psoriasis.
Dosage Recommendations for Milk Thistle
Milk thistle can be taken in supplement form, either as a capsule or a liquid extract. It can also be brewed into a tea. It is important to talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, as it may interact with other medications or have side effects. The recommended dosage of milk thistle for psoriasis varies depending on the form of the supplement. For standardised milk thistle extract capsules, a typical dosage is 200-400 mg taken once or twice daily. For liquid extracts, a typical dosage is 30-40 drops taken three times daily. It’s important to follow the recommended dosage on the product label and consult with your doctor before starting any new supplement routine. Milk thistle may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners and cholesterol-lowering drugs, so it’s important to discuss any potential interactions with your doctor.
Potential Side Effects and Precautions
While milk thistle is generally considered safe, some people may experience side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, and stomach upset. It may also cause allergic reactions in some individuals. People with a history of hormone-sensitive conditions, such as breast cancer or endometriosis, should avoid milk thistle as it may have estrogen-like effects. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also avoid milk thistle as there is not enough research to confirm it is safe. As with any supplement, it’s important to consult with your doctor before starting to take milk thistle.
Milk thistle can be used in combination with other psoriasis treatments, but it is important to talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement. Milk thistle may interact with other medications or have side effects, so it is important to use it under medical guidance.
