Milk Thistle
Milk Thistle
Snapshot
Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum) is a hepatoprotective herb known for supporting liver function, detoxification, and antioxidant defenses.
What is Milk Thistle?
Milk Thistle extract is standardized to silymarin, a complex of flavonolignans including silibinin, which stabilizes cell membranes and promotes liver regeneration.
Where It Comes From
Milk Thistle seeds are harvested, dried, and extracted using ethanol or water-alcohol mixtures; available in capsules, tinctures, and standardized powders.
Key Nutrients & Compounds
Provides 70–80% silymarin flavonolignans, primarily silibinin, silidianin, and silicristin, which scavenge free radicals and modulate inflammatory pathways.
Health Benefits
Milk Thistle supports liver detoxification by enhancing glutathione levels; protects hepatocytes from toxins and oxidative damage; may improve insulin resistance and lipid profiles.
Recommended Dosage
Typical doses range from 200 to 400 mg of silymarin daily, divided into two or three doses; standardized extracts ensure consistent active compound delivery.
How to Use It
Take with meals to improve absorption; capsules or tinctures can be used; consistent use over 8–12 weeks is recommended for liver support.
Who Should Use It?
Individuals with liver stress, exposure to toxins, or metabolic conditions; those seeking antioxidant support for hepatic health.
Possible Interactions or Cautions
Generally well tolerated; may interact with medications metabolized by CYP450 enzymes; consult a healthcare provider if on prescription drugs.
Final Thoughts
Milk Thistle is a cornerstone botanical for liver protection and detoxification, offering robust antioxidant and regenerative actions.
Scientific Studies
Loguercio C, Festi D. Silybin and the liver: from basic research to clinical practice. World J Gastroenterol. 2011;17(18):2288–2301. https://doi.org/10.3748/wjg.v17.i18.2288
Saller R, et al. The use of silymarin in the treatment of liver diseases. Drugs. 2001;61(14):2035–2063. https://doi.org/10.2165/00003495-200161140-00006
Kroll DJ, et al. Milk thistle nomenclature: why it matters in research. Phytotherapy Res. 2007;21(5):417–422. https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.2126