In news that nobody saw coming, a little-known plant has gone viral on TikTok, all thanks to its alleged health benefits.
Milk thistle is the buzz phrase of the moment, as hundreds of people are raving about the supplement on TikTok.
From preventing hangovers and maintaining blood sugar levels to improving digestion, social media users can't stop raving about it. But is there any scientific evidence to back up the claims?
From milk thistle's supposed health benefits to when to take the supplement, find out everything you need to know below.
So, what is milk thistle?
Milk thistle is a plant found in southern Europe, northern Africa, and the Middle East. It's renowned for its antioxidant properties and has been used since the 16th century to support liver function. Milk thistle can be consumed as tablets, supplements or tea.
What are the health benefits of milk thistle?
You may have noticed a lot of buzz around milk thistle on TikTok, as social media users claim it has the power to support liver function, boost your immune system, and even prevent hangovers. So, is there science behind the hype?
"Milk thistle has seen a notable rise in popularity this year, in part due to a TikTok trend that positioned it as a hangover cure," Melissa Snover, founder of Nourished, tells Tyla.
"However, milk thistle has a much broader profile of potential health benefits. The botanical is rich in silymarin, a natural antioxidant compound, and has been studied for its potential to support liver function, reduce occasional nausea, and help contribute to overall well-being."
"Clinical trials also suggest this ingredient can support milk production in new mothers and help improve cognitive function, making it a versatile addition to many wellness routines."
However, milk thistle isn't a quick fix, as it can take several weeks or months to start feeling its alleged benefits. It's also important to note that scientific research around milk thistle's health benefits is limited at this time.
You can find a list of alleged health benefits below:
- Maintain blood sugar levels
- Support heart health
- Improve digestive discomfort
- Support liver function
- Support cognitive function
- Reduce occasional nausea
- Support milk production in new mothers
Can milk thistle help to prevent a hangover?
As mentioned by Snover, milk thistle has gained serious traction on social media this year, with many claiming it can prevent hangovers. In fact, search for 'does milk thistle help hangovers?' has shot up by a whopping 400% online in recent months.
This is largely down to the fact that silymarin, found in milk thistle seeds, has been proven to support liver function and even reduce nausea in some people - handy after one too many drinks down at the pub. But can it really cure a sore head?
Lauren Johnson Reynolds, also known as the London Wellness Coach, offers some insight.
"Milk thistle may reduce inflammation of the liver, which is particularly useful in chronic liver conditions, and some studies suggest that the silymarin might actually reduce markers of liver damage and fat accumulation shown in testing," she explains. "Despite milk thistle’s liver-loving properties, it’s unlikely to make a real difference in an acute situation such as during a hangover, but it could be useful as general liver support along with other methods.
"Reducing the burden generally on the liver may have a more noticeable effect on hangovers in the long term."
Should you take milk thistle on a morning or night?
It's up to you whether you'd prefer to take milk thistle on a morning or evening, as it depends on personal health goals. However, if you would like to relieve digestive discomfort, it's best consumed after a heavy meal.
Shop the best milk thistle supplements:
From milk thistle tea to supplements and extracts, shop our top picks below.
Milk Thistle Tea, £4.38
Warrior Milk Thistle, £4.99
Nutrition Geeks Milk Thistle 3-in-1, £7.99
MyVitamins Milk Thistle, £9.99
Nature's Best Milk Thistle, £9.95
Holland and Barrett Milk Thistle, £18.99
Topics: Health
Danielle Fowler