Milk thistle tea is an herbal drink that is not only healthy but delicious.

Originally native to the Mediterranean region, this invasive weed can be found on roadsides, fields, pastures, and even in ditches and has a long history of use in herbal medicine and has been used to treat a variety of ailments.

Recent studies have shown that Saint Mary’s Thistle (as it is sometimes referred to) may offer many health benefits, including liver health, digestive health, antioxidant protection, and anti-inflammatory effects.

In this article, we will discuss the potential health benefits of milk thistle tea, its potential side effects, and how to make it.

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Here we go…..

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11 Health Benefits Of Milk Thistle Tea

There are many purported benefits of this medicinal plant but a few that really stand out include the possibility of:

1. Improved liver function

Milk thistle is believed to be beneficial for liver health due to the high concentration of its active ingredient, silymarin, a powerful antioxidant.

Silymarin helps protect and even reduce liver damage in some cases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, and even liver problems caused by certain drugs, like Tylenol.

2. Reduced inflammation

Milk thistle’s plant compounds have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce inflammation in the body, especially in the digestive system.

3. Improved digestion

The anti-inflammatory properties of milk thistle may also help improve digestion.

The plant’s active components can help reduce the symptoms of digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome, ulcers, and Crohn’s disease.

4. Antioxidant protection

The powerful antioxidant properties of milk thistle can help protect cells and organs from the damaging effects of free radicals.

By offering protection from oxidative stress, some evidence suggests that it may help reduce the damage caused by certain diseases, such as cancer and heart disease.

5. Reduced cholesterol levels

Milk thistle has been found to reduce overall cholesterol levels and LDL (bad) cholesterol.

In a 2016 study, it was found that rats eating a high-cholesterol diet and given a milk thistle-derived supplement had significantly lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

6. Improved skin health

Milk thistle’s antioxidant properties may help protect the skin from damage caused by sun exposure and other environmental factors.

In addition, milk thistle (aka mary thistle), has also been shown to have an anti-aging effect on skin cells.

7. Improved cardiovascular health

The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of milk thistle may help protect against heart disease.

The milk thistle plant is not only great for preventing oxidative stress damage within arteries, but it’s also excellent for cleansing the blood.

8. Reduced risk of cancer

Silymarin, (holy thistle or milk thistle’s) active component, has the potential to help lower the chances of cancer formation by strengthening immunity, protecting against DNA damage, and reversing tumor growth.

While tests on silymarin’s effectiveness are ongoing, research shows it may also be a preventative measure against not only breast cancer but other types of cancer including lung and prostate cancers as well.

9. Improved kidney health

While taking milk thistle is often thought of in cases of liver disease or to aid in liver health, it seems that this interesting plant could also be just as helpful for people with kidney disease.

In a 2012 study, researchers noted, “evidence suggests that silymarin may be just as important for kidney health as for liver. Silymarin concentrates in kidney cells, where it aids in repairing and regeneration by increasing protein and nucleic acid synthesis.”

10. Improved gallbladder health

Milk thistle has been shown to help reduce gallbladder inflammation and repair gallbladder damage, much like what is seen in the liver.

11. Improved blood sugar levels

Milk thistle has been found to help improve insulin resistance and blood glucose levels, especially for those with type 2 diabetes.

This could be due to its ability to help the body use insulin more effectively and possibly decreasing inflammation in the pancreas.

*Possible bonus benefits….

Traditional use of milk thistle suggests that it has not only been used in cases of snake bites but can also be used as an emergency antidote for poisoning caused by death cap mushrooms (Amanita phalloides).

Animal studies have found that when milk thistle extract is given within 10 minutes of ingestion, it completely counteracts the mushroom’s toxic effects.

If given within 24 hours after ingestion, milk thistle significantly reduces the risk of liver damage and death.

It should be noted that while using milk thistle to counteract the effects of mushroom poisoning is amazing, more research is necessary.

Please seek medical advice before taking any milk thistle supplements if you have been bitten by a snake or suspect you have eaten poisonous mushrooms.

Possible Side Effects Of Milk Thistle

While milk thistle tea offers many medicinal benefits and is considered safe in moderation for most people, there are a few who should use not use this traditional remedy.

If you…

• have certain medical conditions
• are pregnant or breastfeeding
• have had a transplant
• have had an allergic reaction to milk thistle or plants in the same family

You should consult your healthcare professional before drinking milk thistle tea.

Additionally, it is important to use caution when combining this herbal remedy with any prescription medication as it may interact with certain drugs.

How To Make Milk Thistle Tea

Now that you’re familiar with the benefits of milk thistle tea, let’s learn how to make it.

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon of crushed, dried milk thistle seeds
• 6-8 ounces of boiling water

Instructions:

1. Add milk thistle seeds (dried) to a small tea ball infuser or teapot.

2. Pour the hot water over the milk thistle seeds.

3. Allow the mixture to steep for 10 minutes, or until the desired strength is reached.

4. Use a fine mesh strainer for pouring the tea and enjoy!

Additional options:

• If you do not have dried seeds available, you can use 1/2-3/4 Tbsp. of milk thistle leaves instead and steep for the same amount of time.
• Feel free to add a little raw honey or milk if you desire a sweeter flavor
• Milk thistle can be found in commercially available products but for the freshest option (and an easy way to ensure that you are not drinking from tea bags that contain fluoride and microplastics), it is best to buy dried milk thistle seed or leaves from a reputable source. Or you could always grow milk thistle in your garden!

FAQs About Milk Thistle Tea

Are you interested in the beneficial effects of milk thistle but need more info?

I’ll try to answer a few commonly asked questions about this exciting plant and how people use it as an alternative medicine here.

1. What does this milk thistle tea recipe taste like?

Depending on how you make it and what ingredients you choose to add, the flavor can vary.

Some describe milk thistle tea as having a nutty flavor or even a slightly sweet flavor.

If you add honey and your favorite milk (and even a scoop of collagen) you can create a very pleasant tea with a little bit of a creamy texture.

2. How much milk thistle tea should I drink?

The recommended dose of milk thistle tea is 1-2 cups per day.

It is important to note that this medicinal beverage should not replace any medical treatments prescribed by your healthcare provider.

And, as with any supplement, it is always a good idea to take a break from it once in a while or alternate with other liver-friendly options like dandelion tea.

3. How long will it take for the health benefits of milk thistle tea to become noticeable?

This varies from person to person.

Some people may experience a boost in energy and improved digestion within days of taking this traditional remedy, while others may need to drink milk thistle tea for several weeks before noticing any changes.

The key is to be patient, consistent and always use high-quality ingredients!

4. Can I make milk thistle tea in advance?

Yes, you can definitely make batches ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for a day or so.

Just remember to shake or stir before drinking as the ingredients may settle at the bottom.

5. When should I drink milk thistle tea?

While milk thistle contains no caffeine it is best to drink it in the morning or afternoon as milk thistle can have a mild diuretic effect, which may disturb your sleep if consumed too close to bedtime.

Last Thoughts About Milk Thistle Tea

In conclusion, milk thistle tea is a nutritious and easy way to help support your liver’s detoxifying capabilities.

But the health benefits don’t stop there!

If you’re searching for a way to boost your immune system, support healthy blood glucose levels, reduce your chance of bone loss, or need a natural supplement for liver problems, be sure to check out this traditional remedy and talk to your health care provider to see if you could make milk thistle tea a part of your health regimen.

Happy Brewing! (Or sipping!).

Enjoy the benefits of this traditional remedy and good luck on your health journey!

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Printable Milk Thistle Tea Recipe