Milk Thistle: The Viral “Hangover Cure” That Was Once Used for Breastfeeding

If you’ve been scrolling TikTok lately, you might have seen people raving about milk thistle supplements as a hangover prevention hack. But before you stock up on this herbal remedy to combat the aftermath of your next night out, here’s what you should know.

What is Milk Thistle?

At first glance, milk thistle looks like a tall plant with delicate purple flowers—something you might use as home décor rather than a health supplement. But this plant has been around for centuries, with silymarin, its active ingredient, used to treat various ailments.

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What Was It Originally Used For?

Dating back to the 16th century, milk thistle was commonly used for liver health and was even believed to help increase breast milk production in new moms. More recently, studies suggest it might help protect the liver from toxins and reduce inflammation, which explains why people think it could work as a hangover remedy.

Does It Actually Cure Hangovers?

While some research suggests that milk thistle may support liver function, experts warn that it’s not a magic pill that will erase the effects of one too many tequila shots. There’s limited scientific evidence proving it can actually prevent or cure a hangover.

Potential Risks & Who Should Avoid It

Before you jump on the milk thistle trend, there are a few things to keep in mind:
❌ Allergies: If you’re allergic to ragweed, daisies, or marigolds, you may also react to milk thistle.
❌ Not a license to binge: It might help the liver, but it won’t make you immune to excessive drinking.
❌ Talk to a doctor: As with any supplement, it’s best to consult a medical professional before adding it to your routine.

So, is milk thistle the ultimate hangover cure or just another overhyped internet trend? While it may support liver health, there’s no solid proof it will stop that morning-after regret. Your best bet? Pace yourself, hydrate, and maybe skip that last round of shots. 🍸😅