Is Milk Thistle Good for Alcoholics?

It's no surprise that alcoholism contributes to over 100,000 deaths annually in the United States. This serious health issue is a global concern. Many seek solutions and find that milk thistle benefits liver function and other organs in long-term alcohol users. Milk thistle can be beneficial if used correctly and in proper dosage. Specific benefits are outlined below.

Is Milk Thistle Good For Alcoholics?

Milk thistle is beneficial for alcoholics or those with alcohol-related liver disease.

A 2007 study by Andrea Rambaldi and colleagues conducted 13 randomized trials with 915 patients, showing a significant reduction in liver-related mortality due to milk thistle use [1].

In reality, milk thistle can provide benefits for alcoholics due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Active components such as flavonolignans (silibinin, silychristin, and silibinin, collectively known as silymarin) are effective in supporting detoxification, hepatitis, liver fibrosis, and stimulating liver regeneration [2].

What Is Alcoholic Use Disorder (AUD)?

Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is a condition characterized by impaired control over alcohol use despite recognizing its adverse effects on social, occupational, and health aspects. Statistics show that AUD causes over 140,000 deaths annually in the United States, with prevalence rates reaching 11% and 2.9% among adolescents aged 12-17 [3][4].

Excessive alcohol consumption can adversely affect the liver. Continuous alcohol use can lead to liver degeneration and significant health changes, including liver fibrosis, hepatitis, liver failure, and even cancer.

Unfortunately, there is no specific medical treatment for liver fibrosis; abstaining from alcohol is the key to limiting disease progression. However, milk thistle supplements can be used to mitigate adverse effects on the liver and overall health in individuals with AUD.

Detailed benefits are discussed below.

Benefits Of Milk Thistle For Alcoholics

Supports Liver Health

Milk thistle supports liver health due to its main component, silymarin, a flavonoid that, combined with antioxidant compounds, effectively controls inflammation, limits damage, and enhances liver function [5].

Recent studies have focused on the role of milk thistle in fatty liver disease. Patients supplemented with 600 mg/day of silymarin for 12 months reported lower fasting insulin levels, effectively managing insulin levels and reducing insulin resistance [6].

Protects Against Alcoholic Cirrhosis

Silymarin components act as free radical scavengers and regulate enzymes involved in cellular damage, fibrosis, and cirrhosis development. Moreover, in patients with alcoholic cirrhosis, silymarin can improve disease status without serious adverse effects or mortality [7].

Another study also expressed positive views on milk thistle's effect on cirrhosis. It limits toxins and antioxidants, enhances protein synthesis, anti-inflammatory, anti-fibrosis, and immune regulation to protect liver function [8].

Enhances Bile Flow

According to Xia Gong's research [9], chronic alcohol consumption can increase bile acid levels in the hepatic circulation, altering the biosynthesis of synthetase and related transporters to toxic bile acids such as chenodeoxycholic, deoxycholic acid, and lithocholic acid.

Milk thistle extract supports the endocrine system and digestive organs, such as the pancreas and gallbladder, by supporting bile and enzyme production. In addition, the mechanism of blood purification and detoxification is also used to limit gallstones in alcohol abusers.

Lowers Inflammation

Anti-inflammatory effects are the key to milk thistle's good support for other functions in the overall health of individuals with UDA.

As mentioned above, milk thistle contains silymarin compounds (ranging from 65% to 80%). This compound is best known for its anti-inflammatory effects, turning off harmful free radicals when the liver is damaged. At the same time, it helps maintain the stability of the cell membrane, limiting toxic substances entering the liver cells [10].

Boosts Immune System

Milk thistle can help boost the immune system by increasing cytokines interferon-gamma, interleukin (IL)-4, and IL-10. This conclusion was drawn from Chumpon Wilasrusmee's repeated studies 2-3 times on mice [11].

Additionally, in another study on the ability to inhibit essential activation and signs of inflammation in immune cells in humans by silymarin. Experts also show that this compound causes wide-ranging anti-inflammatory and immune-regulating activities in the innate immune cells of humans [12].

Aids in Gut Health

Milk thistle can reduce digestive problems by nourishing balanced microbiota. At the same time, its prominent anti-inflammatory properties promote a harmonious living environment for billions of bacteria residing in the gut, benefiting digestive health. It stimulates enzyme production and increases bile flow, which is noteworthy when discussing the gut benefits of milk thistle.

Does Milk Thistle Help With Alcohol Detox?

Milk thistle can protect the liver from the effects of alcohol. However, its ability to detoxify alcohol is uncertain.

According to a synthesis of reputable studies, milk thistle is a beneficial herb for the liver, as it can support functions such as anti-inflammatory activities, limit fibrosis, and alcohol toxins from damaging the liver [5]. However, the detoxifying ability of milk thistle needs further consideration and more evidence in the future.

In summary, consulting with experts is essential to determine whether milk thistle aids in alcohol detoxification.

What Is The Best Way To Use Milk Thistle For Alcoholics?

For any dietary supplement, strict adherence to dosage is crucial. Depending on the specific case of alcoholism, a doctor may prescribe or recommend specific supportive measures.

Additionally, medical supervision and adherence to expert guidelines are indispensable. Milk thistle is considered safe; however, it is not without potential side effects. Ensure safe usage of milk thistle for alcohol addiction; if encountering any adverse effects such as nausea, diarrhea, or dizziness, discontinue use and seek immediate medical attention.

Is It Good To Take Milk Thistle After Drinking Alcohol?

Currently, there is no specific evidence indicating that taking milk thistle after consuming alcohol is safe. It is essential to follow the consumption instructions of the milk thistle extract product you use.

Every manufacturer ensures adequate dosage and usage instructions are provided on each package; read and follow them accurately. Additionally, remember to consult with experts for the most medically accurate guidance.

Does Taking Milk Thistle Before Drinking Help?

Similar to the above, specific evidence on the effectiveness of consuming milk thistle before alcohol intake is also limited.

Milk thistle helps neutralize oxygen reactions, making the stomach feel more comfortable, reducing nausea, and easing digestion issues caused by alcohol. Therefore, using milk thistle before drinking alcohol to minimize adverse effects on the liver and digestive system is promising.

Based on user testimonials posted on Google, one user shared that taking a milk thistle capsule before starting alcohol consumption and another one the morning after is a method to alleviate discomfort caused by alcohol to the stomach.

Can You Take Milk Thistle While Drinking Alcohol?

Do not use milk thistle alongside alcohol. Consuming milk thistle with alcohol may diminish its beneficial effects on health. In some cases, this combination may cause serious side effects or drug interactions.

Note that milk thistle protects liver function when restricting or abstaining from alcohol consumption. While it has been researched for its potential to reduce alcohol's impact on the body, there are more complete solutions. Create the best conditions for milk thistle to maximize its effectiveness by reducing alcohol intake.

How Much Milk Thistle Dosage For Alcohol?

Similar to other functions, the recommended milk thistle dosage for alcoholics is from 420 to 480 mg, divided into two or three doses per day [13]. Use this dosage continuously for 3-4 months, combined under expert supervision, to ensure its effectiveness.

Additionally, be cautious if you are allergic to herbs such as ragweed and herbs in the Asteraceae or Compositae family. Or if you are pregnant and taking blood sugar support medication, milk thistle may dangerously lower your blood sugar levels.

Does Milk Thistle Help with Hangovers?

There is insufficient convincing evidence to suggest that milk thistle can help with hangovers. However, we found an indirect study discussing the benefits of natural herbal remedies in supporting alcohol hangovers, including milk thistle [14].

Experts have researched and analyzed 82 hangover support products, finding that 25 contained milk thistle extract (silymarin). This indicates its potential as a compound in supporting post-alcohol discomfort and warrants further investigation.

Conclusion

While milk thistle shows some positive evidence in supporting alcohol recovery, the best approach is to restrict and minimize alcohol consumption. Combine milk thistle supplementation with reduced alcohol intake, and consult with experts on the scientific recovery process to achieve quick effectiveness while reducing unwanted side effects when using milk thistle.