Milk thistle: medicinal properties and contraindications

The 21st century is a time of rapid change, new discoveries and technologies. Unfortunately, with all these innovations and gadgets, the world's population completely forgot 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 health. In pursuit of him, people are trying to manage to acquire new-fangled promising drugs, forgetting that the path to healing can sometimes be found in the simplest things - flowers, fruits, plants, herbs. An example is the wonderful herb of milk thistle, which can help a person get rid of many diseases and become a miraculous elixir to maintain health.

Chemical composition

A prickly, 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:

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

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

How it looks and where it grows

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

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

In July and August, the thistle blooms with white, pink or purple flowers, collected in a kind of bowl, which is "wrapped" with spiky green leaves. The inflorescences themselves resemble a fluffy ball.

Milk thistle, although it seems completely unkind plant, but brings great benefits. According to legend, the Virgin herself told people about the amazing healing power of the herb.

Collection and storage

The thistle bears fruit in small baskets that remain on the stem after the flowering period ends (from mid-August to early October).This is due to the different climatic conditions of the regions where the grass grows. Not only seeds should be procured for medicinal needs, but also leaves and roots. Each part of the plant has its own collection rules:

1. Seeds are harvested from August to September. At this time, soft white fluff appears at the site of the inflorescence, which signals the time of fruiting. Such baskets must be carefully cut with scissors. Then carefully lay out on a thick parchment or grate in a dry and ventilated area. But it is important to avoid strong air currents, as seeds can fly with their parachutes. After the boxes have dried sufficiently, they need to be opened and the seeds extracted from there, having decomposed the latter, dried out already in the “released” state.
2. Leaves of the plant are recommended to be collected in autumn, when fruiting ends. The choice should be stopped on healthy parts that do not have obvious signs of damage, tear them from the stem, rinse and dry in one layer on paper under a canopy or indoors. You can also dry the raw materials in an oven or dryer, but the processing temperature should not exceed 40 ° C.
3. The roots of the plant are harvested in October, after the seeds fly apart on their parachutes. These parts of milk thistle need to be dug up without damaging their integrity, thoroughly washed and dried in the open air or in a dryer.

Despite different deadlines and procurement rules, there are general recommendations for collecting:

1. Choose plants that grow away from highways and industrial enterprises.
2. To select healthy specimens with the absence of damage and traces of the vital activity of various pests.
3. Collect raw materials in dry weather.
4. Dry the product thoroughly, following all recommendations.

Ready 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 exception is polyethylene and plastic or plastic. As for the deadlines, they are slightly different. So, the seeds can be used for 3 years, but the leaves and roots are stored for only one year.

With proper adherence to all the tips, milk thistle will certainly bring all its benefits and solve many health problems.

The healing properties of milk thistle

A nondescript weed or a unique healer? The answer to this question is worth looking for, having become acquainted with all the possibilities of a medicinal plant, and they, thanks to the rich composition, are really impressive. Beneficial features:

• treatment and prevention of liver diseases;
• restoration of damaged liver cells;
• removal of toxins and toxins;
• strengthening the cardiovascular system;
• normalization of lipid metabolism;
• weight regulation;
• sugar reduction;
• strengthening the body's immune system;
• obstruction of the aging process;
• activation of bile secretion and acceleration of its elimination process;
• improving the work of the gastrointestinal tract, by removing the inflammatory processes 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 general effect of the thistle, and it also has the ability to influence the body, depending on the gender and age of the patient. Therefore, for the female, male and childish body, the grass carries directed benefits.

For women

Women are weak and vulnerable creatures, and therefore their body needs additional protection and prevention of various diseases. In addition to its main capabilities, milk thistle will help the fair sex normalize the functioning of the nervous system, protect the liver, including from the effects of hormonal and contraceptive use, relieve certain gynecological diseases (vaginitis, erosion, etc.), lose weight , increase sexual desire, protect against the occurrence of oncology, cleanse the skin, prolonging its youth, and strengthen hair and nails.In addition, during menopause, the plant will prevent 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 who like to relax with a glass of alcohol, they are simply made for each other. The fact is that the 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, eliminates hemorrhoids, constipation, radiculitis, minimizes the effect of harmful substances on the human body. Also, grass will help restore strength and increase stamina. So men, especially lovers of alcohol and beautiful women, should take a closer look at the thistle, and not bypass the "thorn" side!

During pregnancy

Each expectant mother, bearing her baby, takes care of his proper and safe development. Therefore, women carefully monitor everything that surrounds them, which falls into their daily diet, and carefully study medicines that can not only benefit, but also harm the child. And here milk thistle has exactly a double effect.

The plant is able to relieve or reduce the manifestations of toxicosis, improve metabolism, eliminate constipation, normalize the nervous system, protect the liver and heart. But, unfortunately, the plant is not recommended for use in this condition, because in the composition there are potent substances that can harm a forming person. This is especially dangerous in the early stages. Although sometimes in the first trimester, doctors still prescribe a thistle for admission, but at the same time they calculate all the possible risks for the mother and baby. Also, the product can be used in the third trimester, but only strictly according to the indications and doctor's prescription.

Thus, the ban on taking herbs during pregnancy is conditional, however, due to the lack of sufficient information about the effect of the plant on the fetus, doctors recommend abandoning preparations containing milk thistle in order to avoid possible irreversible consequences. In any case, a specialist consultation is required before taking the product!

When breastfeeding

During breastfeeding, women care about the quality, fat content and quantity of breast milk, as it is from him that the health and proper formation of the baby depend. Milk thistle really helps increase milk production, but its use in the lactation period is contraindicated. This is due to the fact that a small organism has just begun its final formation, and therefore the effect of grass can affect it negatively. Moreover, the degree of risk has not been reliably studied, and the consequences may not be predictable.

In this regard, young mothers need to consult a specialist and only then start taking the drug. If one is prescribed, the recommended dose must be strictly observed in order to avoid possible risks of health complications of a small, still fragile child’s body.

For children

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

However, taking the drug is indicated after the child reaches 12 years of age. Usually, experts prescribe it in capsule form twice a day. Also give a decoction or meal. The latter can be consumed from 3 years of age at 0.5 tsp. twice a day. The broth is drunk with milk from the same age as the meal.But at the same time, treatment should be necessarily agreed with the doctor, who will accurately establish both the dose of the drug and the need for its use. Self-administration of milk thistle can lead to negative consequences, because the growing organism continues the process of its formation, therefore the effect of the plant is unpredictable.

When losing weight

Most women and men who want to gain the shape of their dreams by losing weight risk harming the body by losing important nutrients, as well as disrupting the balance of functions in the body. Thistle intake has a positive effect during weight loss:

1. The calorie content of the product is 335 kcal per 100 g of powder, which makes the plant a dietary and healthy product.
2. The removal of toxins and toxins helps start the process of weight loss.
3. The grass maintains the condition of the skin, which during the diet can become flabby.
4. Cleansing the liver with milk thistle prevents the deposition of fats.
5. Eating a 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 extra pounds.
7. Normalization of metabolism also leads to the achievement of ideal body parameters.

All these amazing properties of milk thistle help those who lose weight to achieve positive results much faster, without harming their health, but only supporting and protecting it in a natural way.

Why milk thistle honey is good

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

Milk thistle is transparent. It can have yellow-white, gold or dark amber shades. The aroma is tart and floral, but not very obvious. The taste may not be very sweet or cloying, but in both cases it is distinguished by tenderness and softness. Within 2 months, the sweetness thickens, acquiring a cream or pale yellow color. You can’t eat a lot of it, but adding it to tea or cottage cheese, you can feel the whole magnificent gamut of taste.

Thistle honey has a very wide list of beneficial substances, which include:

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

The calorie content of the goodies is considered lower than that of the usual varieties, and is only 300 kcal.

The peculiarity of such a product is precisely in its composition, with which other varieties cannot compete. It is this difference and other nutrients that have given honey the following properties:

• strengthening immunity;
• improved metabolism;
• restoration of intestinal microflora;
• elimination of inflammatory processes;
• elimination and reduction of pain syndromes;
• normalization of the nervous system;
• wound healing property;
• treatment of purulent inflammation;
• improvement, restoration and treatment of the liver, as well as regeneration of organ cells;
• lowering blood pressure;
• normalization of the cardiovascular system.

Such an effect can be exerted by honey due to the content of silamarine, alkaloids, tannins and other nutrients rare for honey. But, despite all its benefits, the product is not recommended for use by patients with diabetes mellitus, allergies or gallstone disease in the acute phase.

To achieve the best result, experts advise to eat 1 or 2 tablespoons. per day, adding a sweet “cure” to tea or milk. However, do not heat it above 60 ° C.

These are the main beneficial properties and rules for consuming a wonderful, sweet, and incredibly healthy thistle treat.

The benefits of milk thistle

At the very beginning, it should be explained that urbec is a special paste from plant seeds, ground with stone millstones 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 urbech is a product unique in its properties and taste. It is distinguished by a tart, sweet, nutty taste and aroma of herbs. It perfectly satisfies hunger, saturating the body with fiber and filling it with strength and health. The miraculous properties of the paste "rely" on its composition, in which:

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

This list of useful vitamins and minerals allows urbech to have a beneficial effect on human health. The product is easily absorbed by the body and can be considered completely dietary. Its main property is the ability to act on the human liver, restoring damaged cells and maintaining the state of the organ as a whole.

But these are not all the useful properties:

• normalization of the gastrointestinal tract;
• acceleration of metabolic processes;
• removal of toxins and toxins;
• obstruction of the aging process;
• prevention of salt deposits;
• acceleration of the process of removing bile from the body;
• normalization and prevention of blood vessels;
• blood sugar regulation;
• obstruction of metastases;
• removal 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 the urbech, but he also has "pitfalls" or contraindications. So, with epilepsy, cardiac arrhythmias, shortness of breath, bronchospasm (or predisposition to them), individual intolerance, the product is not recommended for use. In addition, consultation is necessary for urolithiasis and gallstone diseases.

In other cases, it can only bring benefits, of course, with moderate consumption.

Is milk thistle flour good for you?

Milk thistle grains ground into powder are flour, which also has a useful composition of micro and macro elements aimed at healing and maintaining human health. These nutrients include:

• vitamins of group B, A, E, K, D;
• lavonoids;
• fatty acid.

The list, of course, is less than that of an urbec or a raw product. This is due to the fact that during the processing part of the useful elements is lost, but those that are saved have the following effect on the body:

• wound healing;
• antioxidant;
• regenerating and protecting liver cells;
• strengthening the immune system;
• antiviral;
• increasing metabolism;
• regulatory activity of the cardiovascular system;
• normalizing reproductive functions;
• improving digestion;
• preventing atherosclerosis and allergies;
• improving the condition of the epidermis and hair.
• Contraindications to use can be:
• children's age up to 12 years;
• pregnancy;
• individual intolerance;
• diseases of the gastrointestinal tract in the acute phase.

It should also be remembered that for the treatment of specific ailments has its own dose prescribed by a specialist, and for prophylactic purposes it is recommended to use no more than 2 tbsp. product per day, while it is necessary to interrupt the reception for two or three days. Observing all the advice and recommendations of experts, the miraculous powder will help get rid of some diagnoses, prevent the onset of the disease, maintain health, beauty and youth!

Milk thistle in folk medicine

In ancient times, there were no medications, so 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 is also known since ancient times.It has been used and is used, using past experience, to treat such ailments as:

• hepatitis;
• gastritis;
• cholecystitis;
• psoriasis;
• swelling
• acne;
• varicose veins;
• joint pain
• diabetes;
• cholelithiasis;
• thyroid dysfunction;
• phlebeurysm;
• hemorrhoids;
• hair loss;
• diseases of the cardiovascular system;
• diseases of the genitourinary system;
• decreased sexual activity;
• dropsy;
• removal of toxins and toxins;
• consequences of radiation and chemical therapy;
• intoxication of the body (including alcohol, drugs, etc.);
• acute food poisoning;
• burns;
• skin inflammations;
• excess weight.

An amazing plant has the power to cope with all of these diseases and has repeatedly proved its effectiveness.

There are dozens of recipes that, despite the antiquity of their origin, have not lost their relevance in the modern world.

With diabetes

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, and therefore drugs based on it are not prohibited for diabetics. Also, with such a diagnosis, the grass helps to regulate the level of glucose in the blood, activate the production of leukogen, which fights the disease, normalize the hormonal background, the nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract, lower cholesterol, protect the musculoskeletal system, prevent the occurrence of strokes, atherosclerosis and have a beneficial effect on the general condition of the patient. All these qualities make the plant an indispensable drug aimed at combating diabetes.

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

Classic recipe
Structure:

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

Combine the components and warm in a water bath for 15 minutes. During this time, the volume should decrease in quantity up to 2 times. Next, filter and cool the drug. Such a tool is taken every time after eating 1 tbsp.

With pancreatitis

Inflammation of the pancreas makes the patient strictly monitor his diet and fulfill all the appointments of a specialist, as the complexity and danger of diagnosis implies serious and dangerous consequences. Thistle with this disease is a powerful tool for regulating the functioning of the body and its recovery. Selenium and silymarin, which are part of the composition, perfectly eliminate the inflammatory process, help eliminate bile, normalize the general condition of the pancreas. In addition, the choleretic, diaphoretic, diuretic and laxative properties have a beneficial complex effect on the damaged gland, thereby helping to defeat the disease.

Grass is taken in any form, based on your preferences, as well as specialist advice.

The most popular is such a tool:

• milk thistle seeds - 1 tsp;
• boiling water - 250 ml.

Combine the ingredients in a tightly closed container (it is better to use a thermos) and stand the drink for 60 minutes. Consume the composition three times a day in half a glass before each meal.

With gastritis

Gastritis is one of the most common diagnoses. Nerve stress, malnutrition and irregular nutrition, 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 become an assistant in the fight against an ailment. With gastritis, the grass improves the digestive process, reduces the risks of malignant tumors, removes toxins, relieves inflammatory processes, has an antibacterial effect, and protects against the effects of stress. Especially the product is recommended for use by those who have an increased acidity, as thistle regulates the secretion of gastric juice, preventing additional irritation of damaged tissue.

In the process of treating gastritis, fresh grass juice is usually used. It is in the amount of 1 tsp. mixed with 250 ml of warm water and consumed up to 6 times a day for 2 tablespoons. The treatment lasts about 30 days.

For the intestines

Problems in the intestines do not allow the body to fully exist. Organ diseases can be eliminated by taking milk thistle as a means of cleansing the body of toxins and toxins, normalizing the bowel movement, eliminating inflammatory processes, relieving mucosal irritation and restoring healthy microflora.

It is better to take thistle for bowel treatment in the form of a meal for 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, since if the daily norm is exceeded, the condition may worsen due to additional irritation of the mucosa.

For constipation

It has been established that in the treatment of constipation milk thistle has repeatedly proved the effectiveness of its use. The plant has a laxative effect and does not harm the liver. It normalizes the bowel movement by softening feces, while also preventing damage to the intestinal wall.

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

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

With gout

Gout - although the disease is “royal”, but unpleasant, also very insidious. It will be useful for people suffering from this disease to purchase thistle seeds and undergo treatment with agents prepared from this raw material. First of all, the effectiveness of such drugs is associated with zinc, vitamin E and carotenoids. 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 exerting a general strengthening effect.

One way to treat the disease is to use tinctures from the seeds of the plant. To prepare it you will need:

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

Rinse the seeds and combine with alcohol. Cork a glass jar and insist in the dark for 14 days. Filter the finished product and squeeze the seeds of the plant. Means to take from 3 to 5 times a day, 25 drops diluted in 100 ml of liquid (preferably water), half an hour before meals for 30 days.

With colitis

This diagnosis involves inflammation of the colon. To treat this disease, you can use the thistle, if not as the main medicine, then a good and empirically proven auxiliary agent that has a beneficial effect on the damaged organ. It is better to use oil, because it has enveloping quality, thereby reducing inflammatory processes and protecting the walls from additional irritation. In addition, the product has wound healing properties and regenerative abilities.

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

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

Enema with 30 ml of oil is also recommended. But still, before using the funds, you need to consult a specialist who has sufficient experience and the necessary knowledge to select the correct and complete course of treatment.

For the liver

The unique features of milk thistle that 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 thorn weed is a natural hepatoprotector. The plant not only helps get rid of cirrhosis, hepatitis, organ intoxication and other dangerous diseases, but also restores liver cells, supporting its health. Taxifalin and flavonoids guard the health of the liver, preventing cell death and contributing to the emergence of new cells. In addition, milk thistle improves all metabolic processes, removes toxins, activates the production of proteins and RNA polymerases. The plant is prescribed for the following hepatic diagnoses:

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

In this case, treatment with the help of the herb should be prescribed by a doctor who has an idea of ​​the general picture of a specific pathology and the characteristics of the course of the patient's disease.

As a rule, take either capsules or an oily composition. The latter is consumed in an amount of 2 tsp. per day for 60 days, after which they are interrupted for 37 days and repeat the course.

With hemorrhoids

A sedentary lifestyle, poor nutrition, pregnancy and childbirth, varicose veins and predisposition - all these are the causes of the appearance of hemorrhoidal vein expansion or hemorrhoids.

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

The recommended treatment consists of three stages, in the first of which it is necessary to make a cleansing 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 take a decoction of milk thistle seeds to further maintain the elasticity of the veins, prevent inflammatory processes, reduce the risk of blood clots, and also to avoid fungal infections.

With cholecystitis

Inflammation of the gallbladder is an inflammatory disease. That is why the thistle is a popular tool for the treatment of this diagnosis, not only among representatives of traditional medicine, but also official.

A wide range of nutrients helps the plant relieve inflammation, eliminate bile, relieve spasms in the biliary system, destroy stones in the body, preventing their new occurrence, as well as eliminate pathogens. 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, tincture of grass seeds is used to treat cholecystitis:

• milk thistle seeds - 20 g;
• alcohol - 200 ml.

Rinse the seeds and combine with alcohol. Cork a glass jar and insist in the dark for 14 days. Filter the finished product and squeeze the seeds of the plant. The drug should be taken up to 5 times a day, 25 drops diluted in 50 ml of liquid (water). Eating should occur half an hour before a meal within 30 days.

For joints

Joint diseases and pain associated with these conditions respond well to the treatment of milk thistle, whose composition of useful micro and macro elements helps to cope with similar problems. So, thistle is useful for joints in connection with the following properties:

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

For treatment, you need to use meal. The required amount is 30 g per glass of boiling water. Next, connect the components and warm them up with a water bath for half an hour, then insist the same amount of time. The broth is then filtered and consumed no more than 5 times a day for half an hour before meals, 1 tbsp. The duration of the course is 3 weeks. In total, 2 courses are conducted, between which a two-week break follows.

With varicose veins

Varicose veins are a fairly common diagnosis not only in women but also in men. The thistle will be beneficial in this case. 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 way to fight the disease is the same alcohol tincture:

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

Mode of application:

1. Rinse the seeds and combine with alcohol.
2. Cork a glass vessel and insist in the dark for 14 days, periodically shaking the composition.
3. Filter the finished product and squeeze the seeds of the plant.

The drug should be taken 5 times a day, 20 drops diluted in 50 ml of liquid (water). Eating should occur half an hour before a meal within 30 days. Next, you need to take a 14-day break and repeat the course again. A total of 6 repetitions is recommended.

Against cough

Milk thistle helps to get rid of many ailments, among which there is a cough. In this case, the nature of the disease does not matter. This may be a smoker's cough, viral, catarrhal, or associated with the interaction of harmful substances in the environment. The plant will relieve spasm, prevent swelling, destroy viral pathogens, remove harmful toxins and toxins, reduce the risk of tumor diseases, and also help the immune system cope with viruses.

When coughing, you can take either alcohol tincture or a decoction of grass, which will require:

• milk thistle meal - 3 tsp;
• water - 0.5 l.

Combine the components and bring to a boil in a water bath, then simmer for another half an hour. Next, filter the broth and use it hot while adding a spoonful of honey.

With psoriasis

This diagnosis is considered intractable. But here, the thistle thorns carry 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, moisturizes the skin, relieves itching and peeling.

Patients are generally advised to consume thistle seed oil. It is taken both internally (1 tsp 3 times a day 30 minutes before meals) and externally (lubricate the damaged areas with a warm product twice a day, leaving it on the skin for 30 minutes, and then removed with a cotton pad )

From parasites

Anthelmintic treatment can be performed both with medicines and traditional medicine. Milk thistle can serve in this case as a good adjunct to complex therapy, as it heals the liver, where helminths actually “enjoy life”, remove toxins and waste products of harmful parasites. But she cannot remove the latter from the body.

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

Types of healing compounds

The seeds, leaves and roots of the thistle have healing powers, as well as products made from parts of a wonderful and so healthy plant for human health. The effect of oil, meal, infusion, etc. similar since all of these compositions have almost identical properties.

Infusion

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

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

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

Tincture

Cooked alcohol tincture is also used for all diseases that the plant can heal. Of course, children should not be given it, as well as pregnant and lactating. In other cases, its use will help get rid of pain, cough, inflammation, etc. It should be remembered that the product is very concentrated and potent, therefore, when taken, take up to 25 drops at a time, connecting them with water.

Tincture can be prepared both on alcohol and on vodka. At home, they often prepare an elixir based on vodka. For it, you need to take 50 g meal of herbs and 0.5 l of vodka. Combine the components in a glass vessel, which put in the dark for 14 days, then filter and store in the refrigerator.

Decoction

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

For its preparation, the following components are needed:

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

Combine boiling water with the plant, and then bring to a boil in a water bath and warm for 20 minutes. Next, cool the broth for about 10 minutes, filter and then add water to reach the original volume of the product.

Tea

Thistle tea is an excellent way to remove toxins and toxins, strengthen immunity and maintain the nervous system.

You can buy a ready-to-eat product or make one yourself. To do this, 1 tbsp. plant seeds and 1 cup boiling water. Combine the components and insist 20 minutes. After that, filter the tea and drink half a glass twice a day. If desired, add mint leaves, dried fruits, honey and other ingredients that improve the slightly bitter taste of the drink.

Ointment

This product is intended for external use. It has an excellent wound healing effect that can relieve ulcers, accelerate the healing process of wounds, eliminate the effects of burns, and also help the fair sex to get rid of “calcaneal” cracks.

To prepare the ointment, you will need:

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

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

Keep the product in a glass jar in a tightly closed state, trying to use it for 2-3 days.

How to take milk thistle meal

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

• antioxidant;
• regenerative;
• restorative;
• antitoxic;
• anti-inflammatory;
• firming.

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

• epilepsy;
• children's age up to 12 years;
• pregnancy and lactation;
• pathology of the biliary tract;
• cholelithiasis;
• individual intolerance to the product;
• chronic diseases.

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

With the independent use of the product, it is worth using the general rules for taking meal:

1. A complete rejection of alcohol in any form.
2. The use for prophylactic purposes and for treatment, excluding liver disease, should correspond to the following proportion: 1 g of product per 1 kg of weight. This ratio is considered by experts to be optimal. In case of violations of the liver, the dose should be set only by a doctor.
3. Meal is taken 5 times a day.
4. It is better to use homemade meal.

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

Milk 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 the cold pressed procedure, 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, arachinic, behenic acid;
• manganese;
• potassium;
• phosphorus;
• magnesium;
• chromium;
• selenium;
• copper;
• zinc;
• aluminum;
• boron;
• iron.

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

• strengthens the immune system;
• saves and increases vital potential;
• increases resistance to viral attacks;
• restores organs and functions of almost all body systems;
• removes toxins and toxins;
• accelerates the healing process;
• reduces the risk of cancer;
• regulates the functioning of the nervous system, cardiovascular;
• lowers cholesterol;
• normalizes lipid metabolism;
• reduces the risk of blood clots;
• Helps lower blood pressure
• strengthens blood vessels;
• treats hemorrhoids;
• normalizes the functions of the gastrointestinal tract;
• fights skin imperfections;
• restores reproductive function;
• treats diseases of the oral cavity.

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

• glass transparent containers;
• yellow-green color, bitter taste;
• cold pressed production;
• plant extract - not less than 80%.

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

Application in cosmetology

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

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

With problem skin

The composition includes oils:

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

All components are mixed in equal parts and applied to clean skin every day.

Anti wrinkle

Structure:

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

Mix the components and slightly warm. Next, take a tissue napkin and moisten it in the resulting mixture, then apply a fabric mask to the face and décolleté for 40 minutes. At the end of the procedure, rinse the composition with warm water.

Peeling

Structure:

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

Grind seeds, heat oil. Combine the components, rub into the skin of the face and wait a quarter of an hour. Remove residue with a cloth.

For hair

Structure:

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

Add 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 truly astounding, so you should definitely try using a thistle to maintain healthy hair and skin.

Is it possible to give milk thistle to animals

Thistle is useful not only for people, but also for animals. Parts of the plant are specially added to their feed in order to prevent and maintain a healthy liver. In this case, the norms are calculated based on the weight of the animal.Most often they take part of the daily allowance for a person and add to the food for a dog or cat.

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

Contraindications

The benefits of the thistle cannot be overestimated. But still, this almost omnipotent plant has its drawbacks. The use of herbs is contraindicated in the following conditions and diseases:

• chronic ailments (asthma, pancreatitis, cholecystitis);
• psychical deviations;
• epilepsy;
• dyspnea;
• hepatic colic;
• individual intolerance;
• pregnancy and lactation;
• children's age up to 12 years.

As for the side effects, they can manifest themselves as a slight disorder of the intestines or heaviness in the hepatic region, but this is quite rare.

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

Thistle photo