Milk Thistle - The Gate Keeper

Milk Thistle is a powerful antioxidant and herb - more potent than Vitamin C or E. It protects the liver from toxins and drugs, poisons and chemicals. It is known to reduce the damage to the liver from excessive alcohol and treats liver disorders like Cirrhosis and Hepatitis. In addition, it aids in the treatment and prevention of gallstones and helps clear Psoriasis.

Before beginning any supplementation, again I must remind you to always talk to your physician prior to any vitamin or herb regime. That said, the most important benefit of Milk Thistle is it's ability to fortify the liver. The liver is one of the body's most important organs, second to skin, which is the largest organ of the body for those trivia experts.

The liver processes nutrients, fats and food, it neutralizes and detoxifies such things as drugs, pollutants and alcohol. It also helps promote the regeneration of healthy new liver cells which replace the old damaged ones. Milk Thistle benefits cancer patients too. It can limit the damage to the liver after chemotherapy. This herb can also reduce the inflammation associated with Psoriasis. It is also beneficial in preventing or treating gallstones and improving the flow of bile, (the cholesterol laden digestive juice).

Look for brands that contain 70-80% Silymorin, the active ingredient in Milk Thistle. Watch for alcohol based tinctures. Some can be harmful if taken in large doses and defeat the cleansing nature of the herb. It's most effective if taken between meals. Benefits can be seen in as little as 2 weeks though long term treatment is often needed for chronic conditions. It's considered safe for pregnant and lactating women and it's also one of the safest and studied herbs on the market.