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Head-to-head evidence comparison — which supplement is right for you?
Milk Thistle wins 1 of 3 categories. Both are solid choices — the best pick depends on your specific goals.
Verdict
Probably helps
9 of 13 studies with measurable effects showed benefit.
Top outcomes
Verdict
Likely helps
9 of 11 studies with measurable effects showed benefit.
Top outcomes
Shared outcomes (1)
Outcomes where both Milk Thistle and Resveratrol have evidence — compare verdict strength side-by-side.
200-400mg silymarin (standardized extract)
With meals, Split into 2-3 doses
Standardized extract (70-80% silymarin)
150-500mg trans-resveratrol
With a meal containing fat
Trans-resveratrol capsules
4-8 weeks
8-12 weeks
4 weeks
4-12 weeks
4-8 weeks
Clinical Efficacy of Curcumin, Resveratrol, Silymarin, and Berberine on Cardio-Metabolic Risk Factors Among Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Systemic Review and Bayesian Network Meta-Analysis
Phytotherapy research : PTR (2025) · Meta analysis · n=1337
For HbA1c, silymarin was more effective than resveratrol (MD -2.08, 95%Cl -3.50 to -0.72) (P < 0.05).
Effects of different natural products in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease-A network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Phytotherapy research : PTR (2024) · Meta analysis · n=2509
The results of the network meta-analysis showed that artichoke leaf extract confers a relative advantage in reducing the aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels (SUCRA: 99.1%), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels (SUCRA: 88.2%) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels (SUCRA: 88.9%).
Are alterations needed in Silybum marianum (Silymarin) administration practices? A novel outlook and meta-analysis on randomized trials targeting liver injury
BMC complementary medicine and therapies (2025) · Meta analysis · n=3545
According to the findings of this meta-analysis silymarin administration showed a significant reduction in AST (SMD [95% CI]: - 0.670 [- 0.931, - 0.408], p-value = 0.000), and ALT (SMD [95% CI]: - 0.912 [- 1.177, - 0.646], p-value = 0.000) levels.
A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials on the Impact of Resveratrol Supplementation on Anthropometric Indices in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes
Phytotherapy research : PTR (2025) · Meta analysis · n=614
We determined overall effect sizes using a random-effects model and assessed heterogeneity using the I 2 statistic and Cochrane's Q test.
Resveratrol for the Management of Human Health: How Far Have We Come? A Systematic Review of Resveratrol Clinical Trials to Highlight Gaps and Opportunities
International journal of molecular sciences (2024) · Systematic review · n=200
Over the last 20 years, there have been almost 200 studies evaluating resveratrol across at least 24 indications, including cancer, menopause symptoms, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular disease.
Resveratrol and Female Fertility: A Systematic Review
International journal of molecular sciences (2024) · Systematic review
The current literature, though limited, suggests that resveratrol may play a role in female infertility.
Based on multiple meta-analyses showing significant ALT/AST reduction. Effect size modest (SMD -0.67 to -0.9). Effectiveness assumes standardized 80% silymarin extract. Lower bioavailability forms may require higher doses.
Based on meta-analysis showing TNF-α reduction in young and obese subjects. Effect sizes were modest and heterogeneity was high (I2=60-74%). Higher doses associated with increased GI upset risk.
AI-estimated from published studies. Interpret as directional guidance.
Milk Thistle has a higher evidence score (9/10 vs 9/10) and wins in 1 of 3 categories.
For reduce inflammation, Milk Thistle has a higher relevance score (95 vs 65).
No known interactions between Milk Thistle and Resveratrol have been documented in our database. However, always consult a healthcare provider before combining supplements.