Milk Thistle is a herb. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects and is often used to treat liver issues and type 2 diabetes. The potential health benefits of Milk Thistle (also known as Mary Thistle), includes:

1. Supports liver health: The active ingredient in Milk Thistle is silymarin. This acts as an antioxidant by reducing free radical production. This is believed to have a detoxifying effect on the liver
2. Promotes skin health: Milk Thistle has been found to have an antioxidant and anti-aging effect on human skin cells
3. Reduces cholesterol: Studies have shown that cholesterol levels were lower in people taking Milk Thistle to treat diabetes, compared to those taking placebos
4. Supports weight loss: Studies found that Milk Thistle caused weight loss in mice that were fed a diet meant to cause weight gain. Further studies are needed to confirm whether this is the case in humans
5. Reduces insulin resistance: Milk Thistle has been proved to reduce insulin levels in mice and to reduce insulin resistance in those with type 2 Diabetes.
6. Improves allergic asthma symptoms: The active ingredient, silymarin, has been shown to reduce allergies and protect against inflammation in the airways. This is based on studies in mice
7. Limits the spread of cancer: A 2016 study found that Milk Thistle inhibited the growth of certain cancerous cells, e.g. colorectal cancer
8. Support bone health: A 2013 study shows that Milk Thistle has been proven to prevent bone loss caused by a deficiency in oestrogen
9. Improves cognition: Milk Thistle has been found to increase resistance to oxidative stress. This is a potential cause of Alzheimer’s disease.
10. Boosts the immune system: Two studies have shown that Milk Thistle can help strengthen the immune system to fight off infections.

Milk Thistle is available in a pill form or as a tea. It is recommended to not exceed 6 cups of tea per day and to use as directed on the packaging when consuming it in pill form.

Credit and link to Studies: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320362