Contents:

• Milk thistle – what kind of plant is it?
• Milk thistle oil – why is it worth paying attention to?
• See in which cases milk thistle oil is used
• Milk thistle oil – are there any contraindications?
• Is milk thistle oil suitable for use in the kitchen?

Today, milk thistle is found almost worldwide. From its original habitat in the Mediterranean region, it has spread as an introduced species deep into the African continent, Australia, New Zealand, and South and North America. Today, it is a plant valued for its valuable health-promoting properties, although in the past it was treated no better than the common thistle. Let's take a look at what distinguishes milk thistle, with its intensely purple inflorescence, and the properties of its oil.

Milk thistle – what kind of plant is it?

Milk thistle can be encountered while walking in the meadow, but it can also be cultivated. The plant's typical purple inflorescence and prickly leaves can easily be mistaken for a thistle. The health-promoting properties of milk thistle are primarily due to the plant's fruits containing a wide range of valuable ingredients. One of the most characteristic is silymarin, a complex of several substances with strong antioxidant effects. Silymarin therefore has a positive effect on the liver and digestive system. What other properties does a complex of plant compounds in the form of silymarin have?

• antispasmodic,
• choleretic,
• regenerating liver cells,
• detoxifying – Silymarin can be used in cases of poisoning with Amanita phalloides or in cases of alcoholic liver disease,
• Anti-inflammatory drug.

Silymarin is not the only valuable compound found in milk thistle. The plant also contains:

• Vitamin E ,
• Plant sterols – support the body in maintaining an appropriate cholesterol level,
• Oil – rich in palmitic, oleic and linic acids

Milk thistle oil – why is it worth paying attention to?

The spectrum of effects of milk thistle oil is opened up by its health-promoting properties, which support liver function. Furthermore, the substance lowers blood sugar levels and is responsible for cholesterol stabilization. The positive effects don't stop there, however. Milk thistle oil also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it worthwhile to include in a diet designed to support us in the fight against skin diseases. The oil contains vitamins E, C, and K, as well as sugars, fats, phytosterols, tannins, proteins, and minerals.

See in which cases milk thistle oil is used

The properties of milk thistle oil make this product ideal for use in cases where we are struggling with conditions such as liver cirrhosis, alcoholic and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, gallstones, biliary tract diseases, or the aforementioned phalloid poisonings. However, the oil's effects are more comprehensive, allowing it to effectively support our skin, regenerate it, and moisturize it. In addition, the oil increases skin elasticity, has a positive effect on its color, reduces various types of redness, and reduces wrinkles. It is also worth including it in the composition of products that help with acne. Milk thistle oil has a cleansing effect on the skin, as well as on the pores.

If we are only struggling with slow-healing wounds, sunburn, bedsores, erythema, calluses or eczema, it is also worth taking advantage of the health-promoting properties of milk thistle oil, which can help us with these complaints.

The oil can also be used if you want to strengthen your hair. Simply massage the oil into the roots 2-3 times a week for better protection, shine, and to regenerate split ends.

Milk thistle oil – are there any contraindications?

However, let's not forget our safety. If we are taking medication on a long-term basis, we should discuss the use of milk thistle oil with a doctor. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also be consulted. This is important from a health perspective and to ensure that the medications taken do not interfere with the action of the oil. It is also recommended to take the oil about 2 hours after taking the medicine. This is a good practice that eliminates the risk of impaired absorption of some drug ingredients by the oil. Children under 12 years of age are not recommended to take milk thistle oil, but if you wish to make such a decision, consult a pediatrician.

Is milk thistle oil suitable for use in the kitchen?

100% natural milk thistle oil can be a wonderful addition to our kitchen. It's perfect as a base for various healthy salad dressings. It also goes well with our soups, especially creams. The oil also enhances the flavor of meat and vegetables, while the oil's subtle herbal flavor enhances the composition of sandwich spreads.