What are the benefits of milk thistle and dandelion?
Milk thistle and dandelion is a popular combination for people who seek to promote liver function. Dandelion root can also promote gallbladder function, stimulate your appetite and act as a digestive aid, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC).
Is it OK to take milk thistle before bed?
Yes, I usually take Milk Thistle at night, but my night-time supplements are taken around dinner time. If you are taking it right before bed, you might want a small snack with some carbs and fat to help with digesting it. Teas containing milk thistle can also be taken before bed.
Could milk thistle help with weight loss?
Some people also find that milk thistle has a laxative effect, which could result in some water weight loss, but it is not likely to cause any permanent fat loss. Milk thistle can also increase your appetite of people who have low appetite making it more difficult to lose weight if it has this impact on you.
What are the benefits of eating dandelion roots?
However, available data suggests the following dosages for different forms of dandelion ( 4 ):
- Fresh leaves: 4–10 grams daily
- Dried leaves: 4–10 grams daily
- Leaf tincture: 0.4–1 teaspoon (2–5 mL) three times per day
- Fresh leaf juice: 1 teaspoon (5 mL) twice daily
- Fluid extract: 1–2 teaspoons (5–10 mL) daily
- Fresh roots: 2–8 grams daily
- Dried powder: 250–1,000 mg four times per day
Which is better milk thistle or dandelion root?
That entire process is greatly enhanced by milk thistle. Dandelion root, on the other hand, increases the secretory potential of the liver – especially in the production and secretion of bile. So basically, milk thistle supports the health of the liver while dandelion boosts its function.
What is dandelion and milk thistle good for?
Benefits of milk thistle and dandelion Similar to milk thistle, dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) has antioxidant effects. It reportedly has other potential health benefits, which may include: protecting the liver, immune system, and kidneys. providing antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial properties.
What medications should not be taken with milk thistle?
Milk thistle may interfere with the following medications, because both milk thistle and these medications are broken down by the same liver enzymes:Allergy drugs. ... Drugs for high cholesterol. ... Anti-anxiety drugs. ... Antiplatelet and anticoagulant drugs (blood thinners). ... Some cancer drugs. ... Drugs broken down by the liver.
What can you not take with dandelion root?
Do not take dandelion without medical advice if you are using any of the following medications:lithium;an antibiotic, such as Cipro, Levaquin, Avelox, Noroxin, and others;a blood thinner or medicine to treat or prevent blood clots;a diuretic or "water pill";heart or blood pressure medication; or.More items...
When should I take milk thistle morning or night?
Milk thistle is generally tolerated well by the body, meaning you can take it pretty much whenever you want. It won't keep you awake at night, it can be taken on an empty stomach or combined with meals as an added ingredient, and there isn't a particular time of day where it's more potent or effective.
When should you not take milk thistle?
If you have breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, endometriosis or uterine fibroids, consider avoiding milk thistle. Milk thistle can cause an allergic reaction, including a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction (anaphylaxis).
Can milk thistle harm your liver?
It may have protective effects on the liver, preventing damage. There's some evidence that milk thistle can treat cirrhosis and chronic hepatitis, which can be caused by alcohol abuse, autoimmune disease, or viruses.
Does milk thistle detox the liver?
Milk thistle: Milk thistle is a well-known liver cleansing supplement because of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It may help reduce liver inflammation.
Is it OK to take milk thistle every day?
Milk thistle is generally considered safe for most people at dosages up to 420 mg 3 times a day. However, it may cause allergic reactions, such as itching, headaches, and joint pain, or gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea or diarrhea.
Is it safe to take dandelion root everyday?
When you are discussing with your doctor whether or not dandelion tea will counteract with any medications or health issues you may experience, it is recommended you also discuss a safe dosage with your doctor. According to Keene, many people drink dandelion tea daily (with some drinking it up to four times per day).
Is dandelion good for your liver?
The polysaccharides in dandelion are known to reduce stress on the liver and support its ability to produce bile. They also help your liver filter potentially harmful chemicals out of your food. Dandelion is also a good source of Vitamin C, one of the most helpful vitamins for the immune system.
What does dandelion root do for your body?
Fresh or dried dandelion herb is also used as a mild appetite stimulant, and to improve upset stomach. The root of the dandelion plant may act as a mild laxative and has been used to improve digestion. Preliminary research suggests that dandelion may help improve liver and gallbladder function.
Which is better, dandelion or milk thistle?
Which is better milk thistle or dandelion? Milk thistle helps the liver to regenerate itself, while dandelion root helps it to secrete more bile. In other words, milk thistle helps to improve the health of the organ itself while dandelion root helps it to do its job better.
Can milk thistle and dandelion tea be taken together?
Dandelion tea and milk thistle are both herbs than can help ease liver and gallbladder troubles. Although no evidence exists to explicitly warn against taking them together, you should check with your doctor before adding any herbal medication to your diet. Click to see full answer.
Does milk thistle interact with dandelion?
No interactions were found between dandelion and milk thistle. This does not necessarily mean no interactions exist. Always consult your healthcare provider. One may also ask, is milk thistle and dandelion root? Milk thistle cleans the liver of toxic and fatty substances, thus improving its overall function.
Does dandelion help the liver?
Dandelion (root) also cleans the liver of toxic and fatty substances and encourages liver and gallbladder health while increasing bile flow. Similarly, what is milk thistle and dandelion good for? Milk thistle is sometimes used as a natural treatment for liver problems.
Is milk thistle the same as dandelion?
Milk Thistle & Dandelion on an Empty Stomach. Dandelion and milk thistle plants are members of the same plant family, Compositae 3. They originated in Europe and now grow wild across North America, according to Medicinal Herb Info. In spite of their reputation as unwanted weeds, they're both valuable medicinal herbs.
Can milk thistle upset the stomach?
Dandelion and milk thistle are traditionally used to treat various liver conditions, but each has a number of other medicinal uses 2. However, the National Center for Complementary & Alternative Medicine, or NCCAM, website says both herbs can upset the stomach when taken 3.
Can milk thistle cause diarrhea?
The MSKCC website reports that dandelion and milk thistle could cause an upset stomach or mild diarrhea when taken. Potentially, these could be avoided by taking the supplements with meals.
What is milk thistle extract?
Its herbal medicine is called milk thistle extract. This extract has immense quantities of Silymarin in a plant compound. Silymarin compound is known to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral effects. Dandelion (Taraxacum Officinale) has been a part of a healthy diet for decades. Dandelion is a commonly known weed ...
What is the best vitamin for dandelion?
Vitamin A in dandelion leaves aids in managing the immune and reproductive systems. It immensely helps us to see clearly. Vitamin C has a powerful antioxidant that helps in eliminating free radicals from our body. Calcium is needed for strong bones and teeth.
What are dandelion leaves?
Dandelion leaves are wholesome and have been used in traditional therapies to restore and detox the liver. Dandelion leaves are withered and not new to strong teas. It is prepared from boiling roots and other herbs no less than an hour. According to naturalnews.com, dandelion leaves have 15% protein and have high amounts of vitamins and minerals. One cup of dandelion leaves holds 112% of the daily value of vitamin A, 32% of vitamin C, 5355% of vitamin K. They also have calcium, potassium, iron, and magnesium.
How much vitamin is in dandelion leaves?
According to naturalnews.com, dandelion leaves have 15% protein and have high amounts of vitamins and minerals. One cup of dandelion leaves holds 112% of the daily value of vitamin A, 32% of vitamin C, 5355% of vitamin K. They also have calcium, potassium, iron, and magnesium.
Why is dandelion root used in folk medicine?
Dandelion root is used as a liver tonic in folk medicine because it has the capacity to raise the flow of bile. Naturopaths assume that dandelion root tea might help detoxify the liver, aids with eye and skin issues, and reduce symptoms of liver disorders.
Can you drink dandelion tea before taking medicine?
Dandelion leaves have diuretic effects, so drink plenty of water before consuming its tea. Wait for an hour before taking medications so that dandelion leaves tea does not wipe off your medicine, which you have consumed. categories : Health and Wellness Blog. Previous Post.
Is milk thistle tea safe for cancer patients?
Also, check for side effects. Milk thistle tea or supplement is safe for people suffering from liver disorders, cancer, and diabetes. It inhibits the effects of allergic medicines and blood thinners, so make sure to consult your doctor before having these medicines. Dandelion leaves have diuretic effects, so drink plenty ...
What is the difference between dandelion root and milk thistle?
Milk thistle helps the liver to regenerate itself , while dandelion root helps it to secrete more bile. In other words, milk thistle helps to improve the health of the organ itself while dandelion root helps it to do its job better. The active ingredient in milk thistle is called silymarin; the active ingredient in the dandelion root is called ...
What is the active ingredient in milk thistle?
The active ingredient in milk thistle is called silymarin; the active ingredient in the dandelion root is called carbon tetrachloride.
Is milk thistle the same as dandelion?
Both taste and look similar after being dried, roasted and ground. Milk thistle root is like the dandelion root in that you can prepare both of them like you would prepare carrots. If you want a carrot substitute, you can use either of these roots to get a similar dish.
Can milk thistle be used as a substitute for dandelion root?
How well milk thistle works as a dandelion root substitute has to do with the part of the milk thistle you are using. For example, ground milk thistle seeds can make a good replacement for dandelion root if you need a coffee alternative.
Can you grind dandelion roots?
Dandelion roots are dried and roasted as well, similarly to chicory roots. You can grind them and use the powder as you would use ground coffee. Both milk thistle and dandelion have a long history of being used to help with liver problems; however, their effects on the liver are different.
Can you use milk thistle for coffee?
Both milk thistle and dandelion root can be used to make a coffee substitute, but you will be using different parts of each plant to do this. With milk thistle, the seeds are what you will use. They are roasted and ground before being steeped. Dandelion roots are dried and roasted as well, similarly to chicory roots.
Can you use dandelion root and milk thistle?
With dandelion root, you are using only one part of the plant. The result is that you can use milk thistle leaves to make tea, in salads or you can cook them along with the stems as greens. Dandelion root is edible and you can cook it like carrots, or you can use it to make a beverage. Both milk thistle and dandelion root can be used ...
How long do you leave milk thistle seeds alone?
Leave them alone for at least one week and then harvest the seeds.
Where is milk thistle grown?
It's native to the Mediterranean, but most milk thistle grown for supplements and tisanes is grown in California.
What are dandelions good for?
Dandelions are also high in vitamin C – a powerful antioxidant. They're good sources of calcium, which is necessary for strong bones and teeth; potassium, which helps regulate the fluid levels in your body; and magnesium, which supports the functioning of your nervous system and helps regulate blood pressure.
Does milk thistle interfere with blood thinners?
Milk thistle can interfere with the effects of allergy medicines, anti-anxiety meds and blood thinners, so be sure to have a conversation with your doctor if you're taking any of these medications. Dandelion greens have a strong diuretic effect, so make sure to use them sparingly or increase your fluid intake.
How are dandelion and milk thistle similar?
Even though both dandelion and milk thistle have very similar outcomes and effects, how they achieve them is where their differences lie: 1. Different parts are used. With milk thistle, the whole plant has therapeutic benefits. With dandelion, on the other hand, it’s primarily the root that lends its benefits.
Why is milk thistle good for liver?
For instance, if you have a liver disease where there’s a possibility of damage, the go-to option is milk thistle because it actively boosts the regenerative potential of the liver.
What herbs were used in the Greeks?
Even before the dawn of the 1st century when the Greeks dominated “modern” health practices, milk thistle and dandelion were already favorites of physicians. Although their mechanisms of action weren’t well known in those days, anecdotal evidence suggested these herbs were potent cleansers and purifiers of the human body.
Why do herbs work differently?
3. They have different active ingredients. Part of the reason why these herbs work differently is because of their active ingredients . Silymarin is the active ingredient in milk thistle and is responsible for most of its beneficial effects. In dandelion root, the active ingredient is carbon tetrachloride.
Does milk thistle help with liver disease?
1. Milk thistle helps regenerate liver cells. Milk thistle is one of the few herbs that can actively manage liver diseases such as cirrhosis and hepatitis. In such conditions, liver cells are damaged. Some parts may even start to die off.
Can you use milk thistle leaves in salad?
While you can make milk thistle tea using its leaves, prepare a delicacy using its stems, or even make a salad, such diversity isn’t as common with dandelion root. Although, you can toss some dandelion greens in your salad for added nutrition. But back to milk thistle, even its seeds can be useful.
Does milk thistle regenerate?
When damaged, it can regenerate through a process where new cells are produced to replace damaged cells. That entire process is greatly enhanced by milk thistle. Dandelion root, on the other hand, increases the secretory potential of the liver – especially in the production and secretion of bile.
Milk Thistle & Dandelion
Research
- The NCCAM has funded a number of clinical studies on the use of milk thistle to treat various conditions, and the results seem promising. It suggests that more research be done before the herb can be recommended. And even though dandelion has a time-honored tradition of medicinal use, the NCCAM site claims there is no clinical proof that it works in treating medical conditions.
Possible Side Effects
- The MSKCC website reports that dandelion and milk thistle could cause an upset stomach or mild diarrhea when taken. Potentially, these could be avoided by taking the supplements with meals. Other possible side effects are described on the U.S. National Library of Medicine, or USNLM, website as lowering blood sugar levels and potential excess bleeding.
Potential Interactions
- Dandelion may have harmful interactions with some other herbs and medications, says the USNLM site. If you have questions about whether dandelion or milk thistle will interact harmfully with medications or supplements you take, discuss it with a pharmacist or health care provider.
Forms Used
- The site also says that milk thistle is available in capsules, standardized dried herb, liquid extract and tincture. Both can also be made into teas.
Considerations
- According to the NCCAM website, people with known allergies to other members of the plant family Compositae such as: 1. chamomile 2. chrysanthemums 3. yarrow 4. feverfew 5. ragweed 6. marigold or daisy should not use dandelion or milk thistle They could also cause an allergic reaction. Allergic reactions can occur even if a substance has been used before with no reaction…