Milk Thistle (Dugdha Phenaka (Not a direct translation, but relates to milk benefits))
Milk thistle is a flowering plant traditionally used for liver support and detoxification. Modern research suggests potential benefits for liver health, diabetes management, and cancer support, primarily attributed to its active compound, silymarin.
Botanical name: Silybum marianum. Also known as: Holy thistle, Mary thistle, Silymarin.
Properties
Antioxidant activity, Anti-inflammatory activity, Hepatoprotective activity, Immunomodulatory actions
Dosage
Standardized silymarin extract: 140-210 mg, 2-3 times daily.
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Bitter, Sweet
- Virya: ["Cooling"]
- Vipaka: ["Sweet"]
Benefits
- Hepatoprotective
- Antioxidant
- Anti-inflammatory
- Detoxifying
Traditional uses
- Liver disorders
- Hepatitis
- Cirrhosis
- Diabetes
- Hyperlipidemia
Dosha effects
- vata: balancing
- kapha: balancing
- pitta: balancing
Preparation methods
- Decoction: Boil 1-2 teaspoons of dried, crushed seeds in 1 cup of water for 10-15 minutes. Strain and consume.
- Tincture: Follow manufacturer's recommended dosage, typically 1:4 or 1:5 dilution in alcohol.
- Standardized Extract (Capsules/Tablets): Take as directed by a healthcare professional, usually with meals.
Contraindications
- Allergy to plants in the Asteraceae family (e.g., ragweed, daisies, marigolds, chrysanthemums)
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding (use with caution and under medical supervision)
Side effects
- Mild gastrointestinal upset (nausea, bloating, diarrhea)
- Headache
- Allergic reactions (rare)
Interactions
- May interact with medications metabolized by the cytochrome P450 enzyme system (e.g., some statins, benzodiazepines, calcium channel blockers).
- May affect blood sugar levels; caution with diabetic medications.
Clinical evidence
Meta-analyses of up to 5 meta-analyses and databases tracking 30+ RCTs show mixed results regarding the efficacy of milk thistle for various conditions, but some evidence supports its use for liver health, diabetes management, and cancer support.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Hepatoprotective
- Antioxidant
- Anti-inflammatory
- Detoxifying
Classical clinical indications
- Liver disorders
- Hepatitis
- Cirrhosis
- Diabetes
- Hyperlipidemia