Milk Thistle: Benefits, Uses, and Safety During Pregnancy

Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for liver health, but its benefits extend beyond that. This prickly purple plant, native to the Mediterranean, contains an active compound called silymarin, which is credited for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and liver-protective properties. But with all its benefits, one major question remains: Is milk thistle safe for pregnancy?

In this article, we will explore milk thistle benefits, its uses, and whether it is a safe option for expectant mothers.

What Is Milk Thistle?

Milk thistle has a long history in traditional medicine. Used for over 2,000 years, it has been primarily associated with liver health but has also been studied for its potential in supporting heart health, blood sugar regulation, and even milk production in nursing mothers.

The key compound in milk thistle, silymarin, is a flavonoid complex that provides most of its medicinal properties. Silymarin is extracted from the seeds and is known for its powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which make milk thistle a sought-after herbal supplement.

Milk Thistle Benefits

Now, let’s explore the well-researched milk thistle benefits and how they may support overall health.

  1. Liver Health and Detoxification

    One of the most well-known benefits of milk thistle is its ability to support liver function. It helps protect liver cells from damage caused by toxins, alcohol, and even certain medications.

    • Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): Studies suggest that milk thistle may improve liver function in individuals with NAFLD by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.
    • Cirrhosis and Liver Damage: Some research indicates that milk thistle may help slow the progression of liver diseases such as cirrhosis and hepatitis by promoting liver cell regeneration.
    • Toxin Removal: The liver acts as a detoxifier, and milk thistle aids in the elimination of harmful substances from the body.
  2. Blood Sugar Regulation

    Emerging research suggests that milk thistle may have benefits for people with type 2 diabetes. The active compound silymarin has been studied for its role in improving insulin sensitivity and lowering blood sugar levels.

    • A study involving 51 individuals with type 2 diabetes revealed that taking a daily milk thistle extract supplement significantly affected fasting glucose levels.
    • Antioxidants in milk thistle help reduce oxidative stress, which is a key factor in insulin resistance.
  3. Heart Health and Cholesterol Reduction

    Milk thistle benefits the heart by supporting healthy cholesterol levels. Inflammation and oxidative damage contribute to heart disease, and milk thistle’s anti-inflammatory properties may play a protective role.

    • Lowers LDL (bad cholesterol): Some studies suggest that milk thistle, when combined with lifestyle changes, may help reduce LDL cholesterol levels.
    • Reduces inflammation: Chronic inflammation is linked to heart disease, and silymarin may help combat this issue.
    • Prevents arterial damage: Milk thistle helps reduce oxidative stress, which may protect arteries from damage caused by high cholesterol.
  4. Milk Production in Breastfeeding Mothers

    One surprising milk thistle benefit is its potential to increase breast milk production.

    • Some studies suggest that milk thistle may help stimulate prolactin, a hormone responsible for milk production.
    • In 2008, Italian researchers discovered that lactating women who consumed 420 mg of silymarin, the active compound in milk thistle, daily experienced an 86% increase in breast milk production after 63 days, compared to a 32% increase in those given a placebo.

    This makes milk thistle a popular herbal remedy among breastfeeding mothers, but does this mean it is safe for pregnancy as well? Let’s take a closer look.

Is Milk Thistle Safe for Pregnancy?

Is milk thistle safe for pregnancy​? Well, when it comes to herbal supplements during pregnancy, safety is the top priority. While milk thistle is often promoted for its potential to support liver function and prevent pregnancy-related issues like nausea and gestational diabetes, scientific evidence on is milk thistle safe for pregnancy​ is limited.

Lack of Clinical Studies on Pregnant Women

Most of the research on milk thistle focuses on its effects in the general population, particularly in people with liver disease or diabetes. However, very few studies have been conducted on pregnant women.

  • Some mothers may find relief with milk thistle or dandelion tea, both known for their gentle liver-detoxifying properties.
  • Despite of these findings, it's important to consult your doctor before introducing any new products into your routine.

Possible Benefits for Pregnancy-Related Conditions

Some proponents suggest that milk thistle may help with:

  • Morning Sickness: Its liver-supporting properties could help ease nausea and vomiting, but this claim lacks strong scientific backing.
  • Gestational Diabetes: Given its blood sugar-lowering effects, some believe milk thistle could be beneficial for gestational diabetes, but this has not been studied extensively in pregnant women.

Why Some Experts Recommend Avoiding It

Due to the lack of definitive research, many healthcare providers recommend avoiding milk thistle during pregnancy. The concern is not due to known harm but rather due to insufficient evidence proving it is completely safe.

Bottom Line: If you are pregnant and considering milk thistle, consult with your healthcare provider before adding it to your routine.

How to Take Milk Thistle Safely

If you are not pregnant and want to experience the milk thistle benefits, here’s how to incorporate it safely into your routine.

  1. Choosing the Right Form

    Milk thistle is available in several forms:

    • Capsules/Tablets: Convenient and easy to dose.
    • Liquid Extracts: Can be added to water or juice.
    • Tea: A milder option that can be consumed daily.
  2. Recommended Dosage

    There is no universal dosage, but most studies suggest:

    • 200-600 mg per day of silymarin extract
    • Always follow the dosage instructions on the supplement label or consult a healthcare professional.
  3. Possible Side Effects

    While generally well-tolerated, some people may experience:

    • Digestive issues (bloating, nausea, diarrhea)
    • Allergic reactions (especially for those allergic to ragweed, daisies, or marigolds)
    • Drug interactions (milk thistle may interact with blood thinners, diabetes medications, and cholesterol-lowering drugs)

Final Thoughts

Milk thistle is a powerful herbal supplement with many potential health benefits, from supporting liver function to regulating blood sugar and cholesterol levels. It has been traditionally used for hundreds of years, and modern research continues to uncover its potential.

However, when it comes to pregnancy, the question remains: Is milk thistle safe for pregnancy? Due to the limited research, most healthcare professionals recommend avoiding milk thistle during pregnancy unless specifically advised by a doctor.