How Can Milk Thistle Help Control Blood Sugar Levels

Milk thistle is a flowering herb that is connected to the ragweed and also the daisy family. This herb is native to Mediterranean countries. Also, it is known by the name holy thistle and also as Mary thistle. But this herb is becoming very popular nowadays because of its health benefits. And people with diabetes for sure will what to know more about this. Why? Because according to recent studies this herb can help people who have diabetes.

Can Milk Thistle Help Treat Diabetes?

NCBI, an extract from milk thistle seeds might help control blood glucose in people who have type 2 diabetes. One of the scientists who participated in this study is H. Fallah Huseini, Ph.D. from Iran of the Institute of Medicinal Plants. Huseini along with his colleagues studied around 51 adults in Iran. All participants had type 2 diabetes. The participants were from 40 to 60 years old and had had type 2 diabetes for more than 2 years. They took oral diabetes medications during the entire study. But the participants also got tablets 3 times on a daily basis with each meal. Half of the participants took tablets with an extract from milk thistle seeds, and the others got placebo tablets. At the beginning of this study, all patients had similar blood glucose control and blood glucose levels. However, after taking the tablets for around 4 months, the group who took the extract showed better control over the blood sugar, triglyceride, and cholesterol levels. According to researchers, the key may be the compounds found in the milk thistle known as silymarin. The researchers do not know which is the exact mechanism of action for this particular effect. But they believe that silymarin might have a crucial role when it comes to treating type 2 diabetes.

How to Take Milk Thistle

You can take milk thistle orally in tea or use supplements. Also, you can combine it with other herbs.

Side Effects of Milk Thistle

You should know that milk thistle comes with a few side effects. It can lead to upset stomach, nausea, diarrhea, gas, and bloating. You need to consult your doctor before you decide to take dietary or herbal supplements. Every new research is a new step towards better diabetes management.