Milk Thistle as a Detox
Vaccines, commercial flea and tick medications, monthly
heartworm, other medications your veterinarian prescribes, and even kibble are all potentially toxic to your pet. Your dog’s liver filters those toxins from
their blood. Because the liver works so hard to eliminate all these toxic
substances, it is highly susceptible to serious damage.
Detoxification is such
an important process for our pets. Pores clogged with toxins will not allow
essential nutrients to pass. That causes a weakened immune system which
can lead to a multitude of problems.
Signs of liver damage or disease include loss
of appetite, lethargy, Jaundice, dark urine, pale gums, and sudden unexplained
weight loss.
Protect Your Pet’s Liver with Milk Thistle
Milk thistle helps
treat and prevent liver disease. Researchers found that milk thistle can
prevent or reduce medication induced liver damage. Milk thistle will flush
chemicals out of the body. The liver removes histamines from the body to combat
allergies. If it is weakened and congested with toxins, histamines build up
leading to allergic reactions.
Milk Thistle Is Not A
Preventative
This herb is not a
preventative, or “just in case.” You should use it to cleanse the liver
after exposure to toxins or as a remedy for liver damage.
Milk thistle
stimulates the growth of new liver cells to replace those that are dead or
dying. And it helps protect against toxins which could cause further damage.
Remember, you should
not use medicinal herbs for extended periods of time. milk thistle should
not be used as a daily food supplement. Milk thistle is a medicine that is
reserved for situations in which the liver is already under abnormal stress.
Most holistic doctors
feel milk thistle should be administered for only 3-6 weeks, after which take a
1–3-week break. Discuss with your veterinarian about dosing for your particular
dog. Always consult with your veterinarian before beginning any new supplement.
Animal Essentials has a
single tincture of Milk Thistle. They also
have a Detox Blend and Liver Defense, which include other herbs to support
healthy liver functions. These supplements are designed for both dogs and cats.
Text Source: Rodney
Habib/Dog’s Naturally Magazine
Photo Credit: Dog’s
Naturally Magazine