Does Jicao (Thistle) Have Liver-Protecting Benefits?

Milk thistle has certain effects on liver protection and can help improve liver pathology. It can assist in the treatment of liver and gallbladder damp-heat conditions, but medication should be taken in accordance with medical advice and prescribed norms. Milk thistle is attributed to the liver and gallbladder meridians, and it can clear heat and detoxify, as well as clear the liver and remove fire. It can effectively improve liver diseases caused by excessive liver fire and liver and gallbladder damp-heat, such as fatigue, pallor, cold limbs, and body fever. The therapeutic effect of taking medication alone may not be particularly evident. Patients can take other medications in combination as prescribed by doctors, such as gentiana scabra, honeysuckle, and bupleurum, which can enhance the treatment effect of the medication. Milk thistle has a cool nature and is not suitable for people with weak spleen and stomach, as it may irritate the spleen and stomach, causing symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, and vomiting. Milk thistle can not only alleviate abnormalities in the liver and gallbladder but also play a role in cooling the blood and stopping bleeding, loosening bowels and moistening intestines, and anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects. It is more suitable for people with oral ulcers, constipation, and body bleeding. If liver and gallbladder damage continues to worsen, patients need to follow the doctor's advice and take medications such as Longdan Xiegan Pills, Yinzhihuang Oral Liquid, and Yinchen Wuling Pill to improve symptoms and nourish the liver. It is necessary to adjust the diet in daily life and consume foods such as cucumbers, lettuce, and cauliflower appropriately.