Milk thistle is considered one of the most potent ingredients found in nature. It is naturally derived from the Silybum marianum, or the milk thistle plant. It is a prickly plant that has white veins and unique purple flowers. Its hepatoprotective properties make it a great addition to OPTML Hangover Prevention.

The plant contains active plant compounds, known as silymarin. Typical milk thistle extract contains between 65-80% of concentrated silymarin. Silymarin is extracted from the plant and is used for its antiviral, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties.

What Is Milk Thistle?

• Milk thistle is a primary ingredient in OPTML Hangover Prevention capsules because it protects the liver from toxins that come from excessive alcohol ingestion.
• A 2016 study shows evidence that milk thistle can improve liver health by reducing inflammation and damage.
• Another study from 2014 shows that milk thistle can slightly extend the life expectancy of those suffering from alcoholic liver disease-related cirrhosis.
• More research is required, but current evidence suggests that milk thistle is a potent ingredient in promoting healthy liver function by protecting it against the damage caused by intoxication or disease.

Why Do We Use Milk Thistle?

When we drink alcohol, the main organ responsible for making sure that the body is able to get rid of the toxins found in it is the liver. Excessive alcohol intake predisposes the liver to premature damage by making it work overtime, which can lead to scarring(cirrhosis). That’s why we use milk thistle in our Hangover Prevention capsules. 

The silymarin content of milk thistle is both anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective. This means that it reduces the scale of damage caused by the ingestion of alcohol. At the same time, it protects the liver from future damage.

• OPTML Hangover Prevention

Fun Facts About Milk Thistle

• Milk thistle is also believed to have neuroprotective properties which may potentially benefit patients suffering from cognitive disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease.
• In animals, this ingredient was found to help improve bone health and density. However, further studies are required to find out if it is also beneficial to human bones.
• Some studies suggest that milk thistle contributes to healthier and more abundant milk production in lactating mothers, made possible by stimulating the production of the hormone prolactin.

References:

• https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-milk-thistle/art-20362885
• https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/milk-thistle-benefits