The Truth About Milk Thistle and Hangover Prevention

TikTok trends often spark wellness debates, and one of the latest involves milk thistle a flowering herb being hailed as a hangover cure. But does this herbal remedy actually work to prevent those dreaded morning-after symptoms? According to health experts, the answer is not as simple as the internet suggests.

What Is Milk Thistle?

Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) is a prickly plant known for its vibrant purple flowers and white-veined leaves. For centuries, it's been used in traditional medicine, mainly for supporting liver health and treating gallbladder disorders. The active ingredient in milk thistle is a group of compounds known as silymarin, which is believed to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that protect liver cells from damage.

Some small studies suggest that silymarin may help manage certain liver conditions and even lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. However, the research remains inconclusive, and its benefits for hangover prevention are not scientifically proven.

Can Milk Thistle Prevent Hangovers?

The viral claim suggests that taking milk thistle before drinking often alongside vitamin B and ginger can prevent a hangover. The theory is that because milk thistle may support liver function, it might help your body process alcohol more efficiently, reducing hangover symptoms.

However, experts caution against putting too much faith in this claim. "Some research has shown that milk thistle could protect liver function, but there’s nothing that shows it can prevent or resolve a hangover," says Sarah Anzlovar, MS, RD, LDN, a registered dietitian nutritionist.

Dr. Sanul Corrielus, a cardiologist at Corrielus Cardiology, echoes this skepticism, noting that evidence on milk thistle’s liver-protective effects remains mixed. He adds that while silymarin may act as an antioxidant and help block toxins from binding to liver cells, "there’s no strong clinical data showing that this directly translates to hangover prevention."

Potential Risks and Considerations

While generally considered safe for most people, milk thistle isn’t risk-free. According to Dr. Corrielus:

• Blood sugar effects: Milk thistle may lower blood sugar levels, which could pose risks for people with diabetes.

• Hormonal concerns: It may influence estrogen levels and should be avoided by individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions like breast cancer, ovarian cancer, uterine fibroids, or endometriosis.

• Medication interactions: Like many supplements, milk thistle can interact with medications, so it’s important to consult a healthcare provider before adding it to your routine.

Are There Any Proven Hangover Remedies?

Unfortunately, there's no magic pill for preventing a hangover. In 2021, researchers analyzed 82 hangover supplements containing ingredients such as milk thistle extract, vitamin B, vitamin C, and N-acetylcysteine (NAC). The verdict? No solid peer-reviewed human studies have confirmed the effectiveness or safety of any of these products for hangover prevention.

That said, there are some practical steps you can take to minimize the risk of a hangover:

• Eat before drinking: Consuming food slows alcohol absorption, reducing its immediate impact on your system.

• Hydrate: Alternating alcoholic drinks with water or non-alcoholic beverages can help prevent dehydration, a key contributor to hangover symptoms.

• Drink in moderation: Limiting your alcohol intake remains the most effective way to avoid hangovers altogether.

The Bottom Line

While milk thistle has been traditionally used to support liver health, there’s no scientific evidence to support its role in preventing hangovers. Instead of relying on herbal trends circulating on social media, stick to proven methods like moderation, hydration, and proper nutrition to minimize hangover risk.

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