Milk thistle oil: benefits and harm to the body

Milk thistle, a thistle among the people, is a weed plant that usually grows in every garden. People are used to getting rid of such grass without even knowing how useful it can be. Oil from this plant is used in the cosmetic field to restore the health of hair and skin, in cooking, as well as in the field of proper nutrition. However, the most popular such product is in traditional medicine recipes. Back in the 50s of the last century, scientists discovered that milk thistle is enriched with various vitamins and mineral components, and the oil from it has a number of healing properties.

Medicinal preparations are made from the thistle extract, which are used to treat diseases of the liver and gall bladder.

The raw material for obtaining valuable oil is a field plant with a rich purple color, which usually clings firmly to clothing. Squeeze is made from thistle seeds by cold pressing. That is, in this case, the seeds are placed under a press and under the influence of high pressure an oily liquid is squeezed, in which all valuable qualities are preserved.

The finished oil is characterized by a bright yellow-green tint, the smell resembles roasted nuts or seeds.

Composition and calorie content

As part of milk thistle, many useful components were found, the main of which are:

1. Silymarin - in nature it is quite difficult to find. This substance allows you to treat the membrane by enveloping the cells of the body. In addition, such a compound promotes the production of bile, improves the process of cell development, and neutralizes toxic substances.
2. Various resins provide disinfection of wounds, increase the protective functions of the body, and the rapid neutralization of microbes and bacteria.
3. The mucus in the composition of the product eliminates inflammatory foci, accelerates the healing process, and helps to remove phlegm.
4. Lignans accelerate oxygen metabolism, reduce blood cholesterol.
5. Flavonoids strengthen the walls of blood vessels, regulate blood pressure, activate the adrenal glands.
6. Saponins are responsible for the production of corticosteroids, the regulation of water-salt metabolism, and reduce inflammation.
7. Organic acids help improve appetite, participate in the breakdown of fats, and also strengthen the protective membrane of the body.
8. Also, milk thistle contains alkaloids that are responsible for the normalization of blood circulation and the reduction of pain.
9. Vitamins E and C provide energy to muscles, reduce the level of uric acid in the bloodstream, take part in the metabolism.
10. Selenium treats the liver and normalizes the functioning of the thyroid gland.
11. K, Cu, Fe, Al, Mg, Mn, Zn, Se can be distinguished from mineral substances.

Milk thistle oil is quite high in calories. So, up to 900 kcal per 100 g of liquid. However, given that the product is used in small quantities, there will be no harm from it.

Useful properties of milk thistle oil

General benefit

Oil is obtained by cold pressing flowers and fruits. This method is used to preserve all the healing properties of the product when exposed to high temperatures. Therefore, even ordinary storage should be carried out only in the refrigerator.It is recommended to purchase such a product in small portions, since after opening the package, its shelf life is reduced significantly.

The oily liquid contains many polyunsaturated fatty acids, which have a positive effect on the activity of the heart muscle and blood vessels. If you regularly take this drug, you can eliminate hypertension and normalize blood pressure figures, lower the indicator of bad cholesterol, and give elasticity to the vessels. In addition, taking courses of such oil can reduce the likelihood of arteriosclerosis, stroke. The product also helps to improve blood coagulation.

Thistle oil is considered an elixir of health, because its rich vitamin and mineral composition provides protection against various colds. If you drink 1 tsp for a few weeks before the onset of the cold season on an empty stomach, a person will be much less likely to get sick, and in case of illness, treatment will come faster.

Since the oil is characterized by strong healing, antiseptic and soothing properties, it is recommended to use it for various skin diseases. The presence of tocopherol in it provides wound healing and epidermis regeneration. Therefore, such a tool can be used for psoriasis, allergic rashes, furunculosis.

Continuous use of this fluid will reduce the risk of cancer. Usually, such oil is taken for prophylactic purposes for 1 tbsp. daily before meals. The course of treatment lasts about 30 days, after which it is necessary to take a break for several months. With topical application of milk thistle squeeze, it is necessary to warm it in a steam bath so that it turns out to be sterile and cleaned. If the oil is used to strengthen the protective membrane of the body, it is enough to add it to food products, the more it is distinguished by excellent taste.

The benefit of such a healing product is that it has a beneficial effect on all systems of the human body. So, it has a choleretic and soft laxative effect, helps to remove toxins from the body, stimulates the synthesis of gastric enzymes, strengthens the heart and capillaries.

For women

Milk thistle oil is characterized by a wide range of beneficial properties in relation to the weaker sex. First of all, it contains vitamins and mineral components that normalize the menstrual cycle in girls. The product also helps to alleviate the condition with menopause.

In the field of gynecology, oil is used in the treatment of vaginitis, cervical erosion, and even in the treatment of infertility. It is believed that the drug has anti-inflammatory, disinfecting, antioxidant effects.

Milk thistle provides normal digestion and intestinal health, which is necessary to improve the condition of the skin. When free radicals are removed from the body, acne and other skin problems simultaneously disappear.

Since milk thistle is characterized by a detoxifying property, it moisturizes and softens the skin, forming a protective layer, which allows you to protect it from external factors. As a result, the dermis becomes elastic and tender.

The product allows you to cleanse the skin of harmful elements that cause the appearance of dark pigment spots.

Studies have shown that milk thistle oil can remove or restore cells that have been damaged by ultraviolet rays. It turns out that this oil acts as a natural sunscreen, as it protects the skin from negative ultraviolet radiation.

The ability of thistle fruits to activate the development of healthy cells suggests that, to some extent, squeezing allows you to slow down the processes of natural aging, which is important for representatives of the fair half of humanity. Since the product is useful for almost all internal organs, a positive effect is also observed on the skin.After all, when the body is healthy from the inside, this also manifests itself externally.

Another useful property for ladies is the benefit for curls. So, the product helps strengthen hair follicles. As part of various hair products, there is oil of this medicinal herb. As a result of the use of cosmetics based on it, the hair becomes strong and healthy.

In addition, the oil prevents hair loss, and also restores damaged curls. Since the liver is cleaned as a result of the use of such an oily liquid, it starts to work properly and ensures the maintenance of healthy hair.

For men

Thistle oil has a positive effect on the reproductive system of the stronger sex. The product helps treat prostatitis, prostate adenoma, and urethritis. The drug improves blood circulation in the groin and sperm quality, which allows you to increase the chances of conception.

During pregnancy

Despite the fact that the product is characterized by a number of positive qualities, it is not recommended to use it during the period of gestation. This is due to the fact that the components of the oil can provoke a premature birth, especially in the case of complex pregnancy.

However, along with this, according to numerous reviews, it can be concluded that the oily liquid helps future mothers cope with toxicosis. In any case, you should first consult with a specialist, since only a doctor can determine the danger and benefit of this product in each individual case.

When breastfeeding

The lactation period is also a limitation to the use of this drug for at least the first four months. Thistle seed oil enhances the synthesis of breast milk, but at the same time it can harm the baby, causing an allergic reaction and colic.

For children

It is strictly forbidden to give milk thistle oil to children under two years of age, as this will only harm the children's body. It is best to start introducing such a product into the diet of a child after 12 years, when the likelihood of allergies and other side effects is already reduced.

Before introducing such a substance into a children's diet, a pediatrician should be consulted regardless of the age of the child.

When losing weight

As mentioned above, the oil has a fairly high calorie content, but when using it during a diet, only positive properties are observed. The product in this case helps to remove toxins and other toxic substances from the body, as a result of which weight loss can be achieved faster.

The best result can be obtained if you take a natural remedy for three weeks twice a day on a tablespoon on an empty stomach.

Milk thistle oil in capsules: benefits and applications

Thistle oil in capsules has a large list of beneficial qualities that have both therapeutic and prophylactic effects. However, do not self-medicate. Such an additive should only be used as indicated.

The use of such capsules is prescribed if a person lives in a smoky area or in an area with a high level of radiation, takes medications or strong antibiotics for a long time. Also, such a remedy is indicated for hypertension, a sharp decline in vision associated with working at a computer, driving a car and prolonged exposure to the sun. Overweight, diabetes, diseases of the cardiovascular system, high cholesterol, poisoning, menopause and many other pathologies are treated by adding this capsule preparation to the main treatment.

Like any other dietary supplement, milk thistle oil has its contraindications. Before using this tool, you should carefully study the instructions. The capsules contain a lot of phosphorus with calcium, which can have the opposite effect.

According to the instructions, milk thistle oil is recommended for children over 14 years old and adults to take in the amount of two capsules if the dosage of one is 750 mg. If the dose of the drug is 300 mg, then you need to drink 4 capsules twice a day with meals. The duration of treatment is 30 days. For preventive purposes, a repeat course of treatment should be after 6 months. It is best to do this in the fall and when spring comes.

The healing properties of thistle oil in the form of capsules apply to patients with skin diseases. The drug can be taken with trophic ulcers, burns, wounds and abrasions that heal for a very long time, eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis. But in this case, it is recommended to additionally use this oil externally, lubricating directly the affected areas. This will help speed recovery and prevent scarring.

The product is useful in diabetes, with pathologies of the heart and blood vessels. Capsule oil cleans blood vessels from cholesterol deposits, increases their elasticity. It is recommended to use milk thistle in capsules for people prone to the occurrence of atherosclerosis, thrombosis, heart attack, varicose veins and hypertension.

Oil is widely used in the treatment of gynecological diseases. In addition, the drug has a positive effect on the digestive system. It is prescribed for gastritis, colitis, ulcers. As a result of its use, the process of digesting food is enhanced, the likelihood of rotting food products is reduced, intestinal motility and microflora are restored. However, before using such a tool, you should consult with a gastroenterologist.

Stagnation in the liver and gall bladder can provoke various pathologies. Milk thistle oil capsules will help cleanse the ducts and reduce the risk of neoplasms in the organs. As a result of such treatment, liver cells are restored, its work is normalized.

Rhinitis, stomatitis, periodontal disease can also be cured with the help of this healing composition. For diseases of the ears, doctors advise using the oil both inside in the form of capsules, and externally for instillation and grinding.

Also, milk thistle oil in capsule form is used to prevent overweight. Capsules in this case prevent the deposition of fats by cleansing the internal organs and blood vessels. However, dietary supplements are not able to burn body fat that are already present; it can only prevent this process and help maintain shape.

Thistle oil in medicine

Thistle is a natural healer. There is a legend according to which a once dying man asked the Virgin Mary to cure his illness. Then the Mother of God showed him the usual thorns that grew in his garden. The patient began to take an infusion of this herb and after a while he was able to heal. Since then, this plant has received the name "gift of the Virgin Mary."

Another name for this culture is known - tatarnik. In the writings of Avicenna, information was found that milk thistle is an antidote. In the 70s of the last century, scientists conducted studies that showed that the thistle really has protective, cleansing and restoring properties due to the presence of silymarin in it - the strongest hepatoprotector. It should be noted that this substance was not found in any other plant.

Tatarnik contains fatty acids that remove cholesterol, it also contains carotenoids and vitamin E. On the basis of the extract from this healing herb many medicines are made.

Milk thistle is used for various ailments, such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, poisoning, including alcohol, metabolic disorders, sugar disease, gastritis, ulcer, gall bladder pathology, disorders of the cardiovascular system.In addition, this drug is a prophylaxis of the development of cancer, there are even cases when a medicine based on a thistle had a beneficial effect on an organism that has already been affected by tumor cells.

Thistle seed oil can also be used to restore the body after irradiation, treatment of diseases of the genitourinary system, and the rapid healing of mechanical damage to the skin.

With diabetes

Diabetes is manifested by an increase in blood glucose. The cells of the body do not have special receptors for drawing sugar in, so it is deposited on the surface. As a result of this, a lack of carbohydrates occurs, as a result of which healthy tissues begin to die. However, thistle oil in capsule form helps increase insulin susceptibility.

The healing properties of milk thistle help cleanse the body and strengthen the walls of blood vessels, so diabetics should take it in small quantities. To drink such a remedy should be twice a day for 1 tsp. 30 minutes before a meal, for a whole month. Next, you must definitely take a break for seven days and repeat again as necessary.

With pancreatitis

In case of inflammatory formation in the pancreas, it is necessary to mix 1 cup squeeze from the fruits of thistle and 0.5 cup oil from pumpkin seeds, and also add a couple of drops of essential mint oil. You need to drink such a tool for 1 tbsp. on an empty stomach 30 minutes before a meal, three times a day for a whole month.

With gastritis

As already noted, the plant product is characterized by anti-inflammatory and healing properties. Therefore, the oil is absolutely safe for the damaged mucous membrane of the stomach. If you drink a small amount of such a healing composition on an empty stomach in the morning, after a while the pain in the stomach, colic and bloating will decrease.

Patients with gastritis should take 3 tsp. oily product a day before meals for four weeks. After this, you need to take a break so as not to harm the body.

For constipation

The oil is characterized by a laxative effect, so with such unpleasant problems you can use a natural herbal remedy. To do this, drink one tablespoon of oil on an empty stomach and after 10 minutes, drink a glass of water at room temperature. This procedure will help cleanse the intestines. This will allow you to solve the problem within a few days and ensure further uninterrupted operation of the intestine.

For the liver

Based on the thistle, many preparations have been obtained that support the functioning of the liver and contribute to its recovery in a number of disorders. Oil from this plant helps to accelerate the healing process for hepatitis, cirrhosis and other ailments, which are accompanied by malfunctions in the activity of this body. Tatarnik stimulates the synthesis of healthy cells that replace the affected organ tissues.

In ancient times, this medicinal herb was used as an antidote for snake bites. Currently, the oil helps to cleanse the liver after the negative effects of alcohol, medications, radiation, chemotherapy.

Such a useful product is one of the most effective for cleansing and restoring all liver functions. Most often, oil is taken in combination with milk thistle seeds. So, to prepare such a cleansing agent, it is necessary to mix 100 g of thistle fruit, crushed into powder, and 70 ml of squeezed from this culture. Such a remedy should be taken in 1 tsp. three times a day before meals.

There is another recipe, for the manufacture of which you will need to grind 100 g of tatarnik seeds, mix them with oil, add 10 g of burdock root and dill. Such a healing agent is taken in the same way.

Both drugs are effective in cleansing the liver and reducing the overall load on it.

With hemorrhoids

Very effective are enemas with milk thistle oil for inflammation of the hemorrhoids. Such procedures are carried out as follows - first you need to make a regular enema, and then with the addition of 30 ml of vegetable squeeze. As additional measures, it is recommended to lubricate the area around the anus with this oil.

With cholecystitis

Cholecystitis is an inflammatory disease, and it has been scientifically proven that milk thistle can reduce inflammation. Therefore, for patients with cholecystitis, the product is useful in that it improves the formation of bile and its outflow, eliminates pain in the gall bladder, and kills bacteria and microbes that cause the development of the disease. In addition, the product stimulates the breakdown of stones and prevents the formation of new ones.

With psoriasis

With the help of oil from the seeds of a thistle, this skin disease can also be cured. In this case, you need to take the healing product in a complex way: inside - 1 tsp. three times a day, as well as externally, lubricating the affected areas with heated fluid twice - in the morning and in the evening. On the skin, the drug should be within 30 minutes, after which it can be removed. Such therapy should be carried out for a month.

With hepatitis

Hepatitis is also treated with milk thistle, namely squeezing on its basis. In this case, you need to drink oil before breakfast and before dinner, on an empty stomach, 1 tsp. After a month, you need to take a break for 10 days, and then resume therapy.

Milk thistle oil in cosmetology

Thistle seed oil can also be used for cosmetic purposes - the product is saturated with vitamins and microelements that enrich skin and curls with useful substances, accelerate regeneration processes, and contribute to the reduction of inflammatory processes. For the preparation of home-made cosmetics, squeezing is used both in pure form and in combination with other components.

For face

The oily liquid obtained by pressing the thistle fruits contains a lot of tocopherol, which nourishes and regenerates skin cells. Based on such a substance, masks can be prepared that slow down the aging process and withering of the dermis. Oil saturates the epidermis with useful elements and regulates the water balance in it. Also, the oil is characterized by bactericidal properties, which eliminates inflammation and get rid of acne. When used correctly, this tool can become a real helper for every lady.

This oil is especially appreciated due to its beneficial effects on the skin, it can be used with any type of dermis. If the epidermis is dry, a vegetable squeeze softens it, if the skin is oily, the drug will help narrow the pores and improve the synthesis of sebum.

1. To obtain a moisturizing effect and easy whitening, mix 1 tsp. oil and 2 tablespoons high fat sour cream. Apply the resulting mixture to the face for a quarter of an hour, then remove with warm water.
2. To get rid of peeling, you need 0.5 tsp. heated in a water bath of an oily substance mixed with 1 tsp. lemon juice and a few drops of aloe juice. Apply the resulting mass to cleansed face for 15–20 minutes, and then rinse.
3. To obtain an anti-inflammatory agent, you need to mix 1 tbsp. bran and 1 tsp. squeezed milk thistle and walnut oil. Apply the finished mask to your face for half an hour. After the specified period, wash off the product.
4. You can make a healing product for aging skin. In this case, 1 tablespoon is required. oils from the fruit of tatarnik and 1 tspnatural honey. Then you need to cleanse the skin and apply this mask to the face with massage movements. The same composition is recommended to treat the décolleté zone. The product should act for 20 minutes, then rinse it off with a contrast wash method.
5. To prepare a universal remedy, just mix 1 tbsp. oils from this plant with the same amount of sour cream. Apply the finished mixture in a thick layer to the previously cleaned face and keep for about 30 minutes. After removing the mask, it is recommended to use a moisturizer.
6. To smooth wrinkles around the eyes, experts advise taking 5 g of almond oil, 1 drop of milk from milk thistle, mix these two elements and apply to problem areas. Such a tool should act all night.
7. You can also get rid of peeling with the help of another mask, to obtain which you will need the yolk of one egg in its raw form, as well as liquid honey and healing oil in equal quantities. All components are thoroughly mixed and heated in a steam bath. Apply the resulting mass evenly on the face for half an hour, and then rinse with water.
8. To moisturize the skin, you can use a mask, for which you need to take ordinary pressed yeast, add a little milk and mix until a homogeneous consistency is obtained. Next, include in the mixture 2 tbsp. thistle oil and 1 tsp honey. You will also need a couple of drops of squeezed lemon and a little sour cream. Apply this product on the face with an even layer and soak for 30 minutes, then remove under running water.
9. With dry skin type, a mask will be effective, for which you need to mix 2 tsp. oily liquid from milk thistle, one egg yolk and 1 tbsp. liquid honey. Mix all components and apply on face skin. The tool should act for about 20 minutes. Wash off with warm water without using soap. Derma after such procedures will become velvety and moisturized.

For hair

In principle, any cosmetic oils have a positive effect on the condition of the hair. However, milk thistle oil has the greatest benefit for dry and damaged ringlets. At the same time, it should be heated in a water bath and gently applied to the hair along the entire length. Such a simple mask will help restore hair after coloring and the aggressive effects of the hair dryer, as well as the effects of salt water. This oil makes curls soft and silky.

Also, this oil can be combined with other substances, resulting in nutritional compositions.

1. You can make a mask with orange oil. To do this, take 2 tsp. squeezed thistle, three drops of orange essential oil, 1 tsp garlic marc, 2 tbsp. serum and 1 tsp henna. Mix all these elements and apply to the hair for half an hour. After this, you should wash your hair. This procedure contributes to the healing of strands. In addition, after applying such a mask, the hair acquires a different shade, therefore it is not recommended to use the product for blondes. Instead of the orange component, you can use any other oil that is suitable for making hair masks.
2. To prepare a mask with milk thistle and walnut oil, add 3 tbsp. To 10 ml of ordinary shampoo. squeeze thistle and 1 tablespoon walnut oil. Put the resulting mixture on the hair, and then put on a plastic cap and wrap your head in a towel. Keep this mask for 40-50 minutes, then rinse with shampoo.
3. To prepare a firming mask, you need 2 tbsp. blue clay, which can be purchased at the pharmacy, 1 tbsp. milk thistle, one chicken egg and 1 tsp. natural honey. First mix the thistle and raw egg with honey. Next, carefully add clay.The resulting cosmetic composition is applied to the hair. Cover the head with a hat. The tool should act for 40 minutes, then rinse it with shampoo.
4. For the manufacture of funds for dry curls, it is necessary to prepare the following ingredients: an oily product from tatarnik, cognac and egg yolk. 5 tbsp brandy mixed with 3 tbsp. butter and yolk of one egg. Mask the hair over the entire length. Next, lock the strands with a film and insulate with a towel. After an hour, rinse this product off in the shower.
5. There is a mask against hair loss using this healing oil. To prepare it, grate the burdock root and mix it with an oily liquid in a ratio of 1: 4. If the mixture is too thick, it can be diluted with a small amount of water. Then, according to the standard scheme, apply the product to the hair, put on a rubber hat and towel from above. Keep this composition should be about two hours. Then you just need to wash your hair in the usual way.

Cooking Application

Squeezing from milk thistle seeds is very often used for culinary purposes. This product is an excellent salad dressing, as it gives the dish a neutral aftertaste, like regular sunflower oil. If you mix this substance with lemon juice and whipped protein, you get a fairly saturated dressing that can be used for Caesar salad.

In addition, oil is used to make marinades, various sauces and cereals. Despite the fact that such an oily liquid based on milk thistle is high-calorie, it can be included in dishes used during weight loss. To do this, just make a salad of your favorite vegetable ingredients and season it with thistle oil.

This product contains a lot of vitamins and minerals, which will help fill the lack of useful elements for malnutrition. That is, a salad cooked with such oil will allow you to eat few calories, but at the same time it will saturate and improve the condition of the skin, nail plates and hair.

Is it possible to fry milk thistle in oil?

It is impossible to fry in such oil. The fact is that when exposed to high temperatures, the product loses the bulk of the nutrients. Therefore, it is recommended to add a plant product only in cold or warm dishes. This will give the food a unique taste and will benefit the body.

Harm and contraindications

Squeezing from the fruits of the thistle has unique properties, since it has practically no negative qualities, it is not without reason that it is used in the treatment of even the most serious diseases. However, there are still cases where such a healing remedy should be discarded. Contraindications include allergic reactions, pathologies of the gallbladder, respiratory diseases such as asthma, epilepsy. It is also not recommended to use such oil during the period of bearing the baby, as well as after the birth of the baby. For children under 12 years of age, this squeeze is also contraindicated.

A negative reaction of the body to milk from milk thistle can occur in the form of diarrhea, skin rash, or heartburn.

How to choose and store milk thistle oil

Since such a plant-based product can only be purchased at a pharmacy, you can be sure that the quality is at the highest level. However, at the same time, several points should be taken into account.

1. First of all, you need to remember that quality products are sold in a dark glass bottle.
2. A good oil should have a yellow-green color, while the aroma should be pleasant, slightly bitter.
3. The milk thistle oil label should contain information that the product was obtained by cold pressing, and the extract in its pure form should be at least 80 percent.

The shelf life of a sealed oil bottle is usually one year from the date of manufacture. Opened products are stored very little - about 30 days. Therefore, there is no need to buy oil in a large container without the need, as it will become unusable very quickly. At the same time, it must be stored in the refrigerator, in a sealed bottle.

Interesting facts about milk thistle

1. Interestingly, the thistle is almost the only medicinal plant that will help save the life of a person who has been poisoned by eating pale toadstool.
2. The plant belongs to the genus "Silybum", which means "brush" in Greek.
3. The culture got its specific name in honor of the Virgin Mary. It is believed that white spots on the green leaves of grass are the milk of the Mother of God. In Bulgaria, to date, the thistle is called the “gift of the Virgin Mary”.
4. Each people is accustomed to call this plant in its own way. Someone gave milk thistle the name of a milk or holy thistle, someone calls it silver tatarnik. But the most interesting name is the frog. The culture got such a name because of the similarity of a young plant with such an amphibian.
5. Since ancient times, milk thistle has been used in the treatment of various pathologies. So, in ancient Rome, it was used as an effective remedy for poisoning. The great Arab doctor and thinker Avicenna in his writings described this plant as an antidote to the bites of snakes and certain types of spiders.
6. A few centuries later, Dr. Vogel, who was treating 60 patients who had been seriously poisoned by poisonous mushrooms, indicated that the thistle yields amazing results in treating the injured. All his patients survived, while a third of the patients died with the usual treatment at that time.
7. Nevertheless, preparations from milk thistle have the greatest effect in liver pathologies.

However, only in the 70s of the last century, scientific institutions of different states began to study preparations obtained from spotted thistles, namely their effect on the human body.

Since that time, more than two hundred experimental and clinical experiments have been carried out, as a result of which it was found that milk thistle is truly an effective method of combating various diseases. The seeds of this plant contain elements that protect the cells of the body from the penetration of poisons into them. There is even evidence that it is thanks to the thistle that the growth of cancer cells can be stopped.