Silver thistle

The silver thistle(Carlina) is a plant of the boar's bane genus. The root of this plant is used to make medicine. Silver thistle is used for diseases of the gallbladder, poor digestion and cramps in the esophagus, stomach and digestive tract. In addition, silver thistle is used as a tonic, as a diuretic to reduce water retention and to promote sweating. Some people apply silver thistle directly to the skin to treat skin diseases, weeping wounds and ulcers, and to treat tongue cancer. Some silver thistle preparations are used for herpes, pimples and toothache. In combination with other herbal products, silver thistle is used for gallbladder disorders and stomach and intestinal cramps.

How does silver thistle work?

Some extracts of silver thistle may work by killing bacteria.

How effective is silver thistle?

There is not enough scientific data to say how effective silver thistle is when taken orally to treat gallbladder disorders, poor digestion and cramps in the esophagus, stomach and intestines, or when used as a tonic or to promote sweating. There is also insufficient scientific data on the effectiveness of silver thistle applied to the skin for skin problems, wounds, tongue cancer and toothache. Further scientific research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of silver thistle in all these areas of application.

Safety and side effects

There is not enough information to say whether silver thistle is safe and harmless or what side effects it may have.

Precautions and warnings

Pregnancy and lactation: Not enough is known about the use of silver thistle during pregnancy and lactation. For this reason, pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid silver thistle.

Allergies to broomweed and related plants: Silver thistle may cause allergic reactions in people who are sensitive to plants of the Asteraceae/Compositae family. Members of this plant family include broomsedge, chrysanthemums, marigolds, daisies and many others. If you suffer from allergies, you should consult your doctor before taking silver thistle.

Interactions

There is currently no information on interactions between silver thistle and medications or supplements.

Dosage

An appropriate dosage of silver thistle depends on various factors such as age, state of health and others. At this time, there is insufficient scientific data to determine appropriate dosage ranges for silver thistle products. For this reason, you should follow the dosage instructions on the label and/or consult a doctor or pharmacist before use.