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Hepatic, galactogogue, demulcent, cholagogue.
Milk Thistle is used to increase the secretion and flow of
bile from the liver and gall-bladder. Its traditional use
as a liver tonic has been supported by research showing that
it contains constituents which protect liver cells from chemical
damage. Used in a variety of liver and gall bladder conditions
including hepatitis and cirrhosis. Also used in the treatment
of chronic uterine problems. Research done in Germany showed
that milk thistle reverses toxic liver damage as well as protection
from potential hepatotoxic agents.
A number of chemical components of herb are now being shown
to have this protective effect on liver cells. They are all
flavones and flavo-lignins, the best studied being silymarin.
Silymarin has been shown to reverse the effects of highly
toxic alkaloids, such phalloidine and a-amanitine from the
Avenging Angel mushroom (Amanita phalloides) as well as protect
liver cells from their impact. The pharmacodynamics, site
and mechanism of action of silymarin are becoming well understood,
providing insights into the metabolic basis of this herbs
activity., an activity long known and used by medical herbalists.
As its name implies, it promotes milk secretion and is perfectly
safe to be used by all breast feeding mothers.
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