RE: Supplements may help itchiness

[Guest guest]

FYI - has compiled a huge list of scientific articles. You can see the ones for milk thistle at http://www.psc-literature.org/milk.htm.

One of the more recent ones (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/entrez?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & list_uids=17464157 & dopt=Abstract) concludes:

An updated systematic review of the pharmacology of Silymarin.

Saller R, Melzer J, Reichling J, Brignoli R, Meier R.

Conclusions: Data presented here do not solve the question about the complex mechanism(s) of action of the medicinal herbal drug silymarin. Silymarin may be a natural multi-functional and multi-target drug.

On the other hand, Mayo clinic states (http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/silymarin/NS_patient-milkthistle)

Evidence

These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.

Bottom line, please consult with your healthcare provider (I did). And yes, I do take it (200mg of standardized 80% silymarin, 3x daily) - have for about 6 years now.

Arne

56 - UC 1977, PSC 2000

Alive and (mostly) well in Minnesota

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From: [mailto: ] On Behalf Of spiritualrebith@...

I want to share with you the ONLY thing that helped me when I was going

through the itching that can drive a person insane.

The supplement is Milk thistle extract (Silybum marianum) standardized

to 80% silymarin...