Milk thistle flower is the prickly plant with purple flowers and white veins native to the Mediterranean region. The flower is truly nature’s work of art. It not only is beautiful to look at, but also serves as an incredibly powerful herbal remedy. Loaded with antioxidant, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, the milk thistle flower could be the health secret that Black women have been looking for.

From alcohol detoxification to cancer prevention, the benefits of consuming milk thistle tea are endless. Here are a few specific ways milk thistle can completely transform a Black woman’s health. 

Photo credit: LumiNola

Liver Detoxification 

When it comes to a woman’s hormonal health, there’s truly nothing more significant than detoxifying the liver. Milk thistle tea protects the liver against toxins and improves its function. Milk thistle also may reduce liver damage caused by free radicals from when your liver metabolizes toxic substances.

Breast Milk Production

If you are looking for some natural remedies to pump up your supply, then milk thistle tea is perfect. One of the earliest mentions of milk thistle was in a book of herbs in 1626, defined as a treatment for low breast milk supply. Prolactin is a necessary hormone for breastfeeding and milk thistle’s estrogen-mimicking properties increase prolactin secretions.

Blood Sugar Regulation

Studies show that Black women are disproportionately affected by heart disease and diabetes. However, milk thistle tea can be a major game changer. It lowers blood sugar levels and improves cholesterol in people with type 2 diabetes. Researchers also have found that milk thistle improved insulin resistance. This is a key factor to type 2 diabetes and hormonal disorders like PCOS.

Acne

Milk thistle contains active ingredients that aid in protecting the skin, increasing moisture and soothing irritation. A 2015 study found that it helps to improve inflammatory skin conditions. This makes the tea useful for any eczema or irritating flare-ups. For those who struggle with cystic acne, milk thistle’s hormone-balancing properties can flush out any toxins preventing smooth glass skin.