How to Make a Milk Thistle Herbal Paste

Milk thistle has been used for centuries in folk medicine to treat liver problems, such as jaundice and liver disease. While little clinical evidence exists regarding its efficacy, milk thistle extracts continue to be recommended by natural medical practitioners. Milk thistle herbal paste applied topically is also thought to help in cases of skin diseases like rosacea and psoriasis as well as acne, although again, little clinical evidence has been conducted to support this application. Milk thistle as a paste works by cleansing and expelling toxins from deep within the pores, so expect to see a breakout before your skin clears up.

Things You'll Need

• Milk thistle powder
• Bowl
• Water/rosewater
• Spoon
• Oatmeal powder (optional)

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Instructions

• 1

  Empty your milk thistle powder into a bowl. Most milk thistle powders available commercially are in capsules, so you may have to open a number of capsules to empty out the contents. Check the label for a high content of silymarin, which is the potent component in milk thistle seeds--without silymarin in the ingredients, you are probably using powder derived from the weaker parts of the plant, such as the stem or leaves.

• 2

  Mix in a small amount of water at a time--you can use rosewater instead if desired. The consistency of milk thistle powder varies greatly, so just add small amounts of water until a paste forms.

• 3

  Add oatmeal powder if the milk thistle is not forming into a satisfactory consistency on its own; oatmeal is soothing for skin, so it will be beneficial.

• 4

  Apply the paste to your face and neck like you would a normal face mask and leave on for 15 to 20 minutes. Rinse off with warm water. Use weekly for best results.