Endometriosis and Silybum Marianum (Milk Thistle)

As we mentioned in previous articles, endometriosis growing somewhere else other than the endometrium also reacts to hormonal signals of the monthly menstrual cycle by building up tissue, breaking it, and eliminating it through the menstrual period. As we know, herbs play a very important role in some cultures in treating all kinds of diseases. In this article, we will discuss how silybum marianum helps to treat endometriosis.


I. Definition
Silybum mariaum is also known as milk thistle and it belongs to the Asteraceae family. It has red to purple flowers and shiny pale green leaves with white veins. Milk Thistle is native in Southern Europe and through to Asia. It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine in treating liver diseases.

II. How silybum mariaum effects endometriosis
1. Liver support
Milk thistle is said to help strengthen the liver's function in fat and protein metabolism that helps to inhibit the over-production of bad estrogen during menstrual cycle by producing bile. With a strong liver, it also helps to increase the circulation of blood through cholesterol conversion leading to balance the prostaglandins hormones resulting in lessening the uterine cramps.

2. Immune system
It contains silymarin, a powerful antioxidant that helps to fight against the bacteria, virus, and the forming of free radicals and inflammation caused by endometriosis implants and adhesion.

3. Disgestive system
Flavones are always found conjunction with vitamin C, that help the digestive system in vitamins and mineral absorption. This function is essential for women with endometriosis, because most of them are found to have some kinds of vitamins and minerals deficiency during menstrual cycle.

4. Menstrual problems
Silymarin in milk thistle is said to help in smoothing the uterine muscle by increasing the blood flow to the region as well as making the small veins in the abdomen become more elastic that prevents heavy flow which is vital for women with heavy bleeding during menstruation.

5. Control food and sugar craving
Silymarin is said to help balance the blood sugar in the bloodstream, by acting as an agent for the pancreas moderator, if the insulin is too low silymarin will stimulate the production for more insulin. On the other hand, if the levels of insulin is too high, silymarin will send signals for stopping the production from the pancreas.