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Milk Thistle Liver Tincture

Silymarin-rich milk thistle seeds support liver regeneration, protect against toxins, and aid in detoxification protocols.

tincturesLiver & DetoxBeginner⏱ 20 mins (+ 6–8 weeks maceration)Shelf life: 5 years

Benefits

Liver protectionDetoxifyingAnti-inflammatoryAntioxidant

Ingredients

  • Dried milk thistle seeds (crushed) — 60g
  • 80-proof vodka — 300ml

Instructions

  1. Lightly crush milk thistle seeds in a mortar and pestle to aid extraction.
  2. Place in a glass jar and cover with vodka.
  3. Macerate for 6–8 weeks, shaking daily.
  4. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve and cheesecloth.
  5. Bottle in dark glass and label.

Notes

Dose: 30 drops in water 3 times daily before meals. Best used as part of a 3-month liver support programme.

Interactions & contraindications

Dried milk thistle seeds (crushed)

Full profile
  • Pre-surgery — discontinue at least 2 weeks prior (potential antiplatelet effect)
  • Hormone-sensitive conditions (breast/ovarian cancer, endometriosis) — phytoestrogenic activity possible
  • Active liver disease — monitor liver enzymes with long-term use

Pregnancy

Likely Safe

Reasonable safety data supports use in pregnancy — it's even sometimes used for pregnancy-related liver conditions (like cholestasis) under medical guidance; standard doses are generally well tolerated.

Breastfeeding

Likely Safe

Considered compatible with breastfeeding; some limited research suggests it may even support milk supply.

Children

Likely Safe

Generally well tolerated; used under guidance for liver support in children when needed.

As a member of the Asteraceae (ragweed/daisy) family, this herb carries a real chance of cross-reaction in anyone allergic to ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, or daisies — introduce cautiously if there's a known allergy.

Liver-metabolized medications

May alter the metabolism of drugs processed via the CYP450 pathway; discuss with your pharmacist for any regular prescription.

80-proof vodka

No herb-specific pregnancy/child safety research is documented for 80-proof vodka in our references — the guidance below is based on its general effect category, not research on 80-proof vodka itself. Always confirm with a midwife, doctor, or pediatrician.

Pregnancy

Insufficient Data

No specific pregnancy safety research is documented for this herb in our references. This doesn't mean it's unsafe — it means it hasn't been well studied. Treat as unstudied and avoid unless a midwife or doctor familiar with your pregnancy advises otherwise.

Breastfeeding

Insufficient Data

No specific breastfeeding safety research is documented for this herb in our references. Treat as unstudied and consult a lactation consultant, midwife, or doctor before use.

Children

Insufficient Data

No specific pediatric safety/dosage research is documented for this herb in our references. Treat as unstudied and consult a pediatrician or pediatric herbalist before giving to a child.

No specific drug or herb interactions are documented for 80-proof vodka in our references. This doesn’t mean none exist — always check with a pharmacist or doctor before combining any new herb with prescription medication.