Most of us would agree that hangovers get worse with age. Our metabolism naturally slows down as we get older meaning that the after effects of booze-heavy binges can linger for two or even three days following that last drop of Prosecco.
Your current go-to cure for a sore head and pit-of-the-stomach sickness might be knocking back a couple of painkillers with a fry-up, but skipping greasy meals and over-the-counter meds for a centuries old herb might be a better wellness antidote to help beat the post-booze aftermath.
Milk thistle, a herbal remedy that comes from the milk thistle plant, (also known as silybum marianum) is causing a viral stir right now. Google searches for 'milk thistle hangover cure' have surged by a whopping 5000% in the past 90 days, and social media interest has also piqued, with TikTokers raving about milk thistle supplements as the latest hangover hack. But could a single supplement alleviate the unbearable side effects that come with burning the candle at both ends?
Alcohol affects almost every organ of the body, but the liver - the body's largest internal organ is particularly impacted as it plays a crucial role in processing, metabolising and removing alcohol from your system. This complex metabolic process involves converting alcohol into a substance called acetaldehyde, which is then broken down into specific by-products for elimination. The side effects on the liver include short-term inflammation and increased oxidative stress.
On the plus side, the liver is the body's most regenerative organ, meaning it can bounce back relatively quickly to replace damaged cells. Unfortunately that doesn't give you a free pass to reach for another espresso martini - regularly consuming alcohol in excess, (14 units per week spread out over three days or more is the official recommended limit) can take its toll over time impairing liver function long-term.
Milk thistle is making waves on social media right now because of silymarin, the plant's active compound, but does this buzz ingredient deserve a legitimate place in your daily routine? Silymarin is specifically found in milk thistle seeds. This powerful extract has been used as early as the 16th century to treat liver conditions, and studies have shown that it works by helping to block toxins from reaching liver cells, reducing inflammation and protecting cell membranes from harmful free radical damage. Silymarin also helps to promote liver cell regeneration - which is just what your body needs after you've put it through its paces.
A 2020 scientific review of silymarin published in the Advanced in Therapy journal found that in patients with diabetes and alcoholic cirrhosis, treatment with silymarin extract was correlated with a significant reduction in liver-related deaths, but don't expect milk thistle to work like a magic pill to help offset the morning after the night before. Popping a supplement as a one-off before a big evening out won't exert any benefit to long-term liver health. It's generally thought that supplements take around 12 weeks to take effect so daily consistency is key if you want to safeguard your liver and help remedy nasty hangovers.
Milk thistle is generally considered a safe supplement, although pregnant women although anyone with a health concern (especially diabetes and hormonal conditions) should exercise caution and speak to a medical professional before taking it. Side effects include abdominal discomfort, bloating, nausea and diarrhoea and a split daily dose of up to 1800mg is considered safe according to the European Medicines Agency. Will milk thistle make your hangovers a thing of the past? Probably not but it might help you suffer that little bit less.
HRI Milk Thistle Tablets
Specifically designed to combat over indulgence side effects including an upset stomach.
An alternative to capsules, this high strength organic tincture is designed to support liver health.
This cleansing shot combines ashwagandha, milk thistle, apple and lemon.