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Silybum marianum (Silymarin)
Silymarin flavonoids protect hepatocytes from toxin damage and support liver cell regeneration — used clinically across Europe.
What the evidence says
Milk Thistle helped in about half (9/13) of the studies that measured an effect — promising, but not unanimous.
Most evidence is from high-quality meta-analyses and randomised trials published 2001–2026 with a typical study size of 915 participants.
Based on 36 studies · 24 meta-analyses · 3 RCTs · 39,244 total participants
Confidence
HighWhat the studies found
By outcome
See full supplement plans that include Milk Thistle.
Milk Thistle has an evidence score of 9/10 — very strong evidence based on 36 indexed studies, including 26 meta-analyses. Silymarin flavonoids protect hepatocytes from toxin damage and support liver cell regeneration — used clinically across Europe.
The commonly studied dose of Milk Thistle is 200-400mg silymarin (standardized extract). Research points to an estimated optimal dose around 400mg, with a minimum effective dose near 200mg. Individual response varies — start low and adjust.
The best time to take Milk Thistle is with meals. Taking it with food is preferred. Silymarin — the flavonolignan complex in milk thistle (Silybum marianum) — has low native bioavailability due to poor water solubility and rapid hepatic metabolism.
Last reviewed May 2026 · evidence from 39 studies · how we score
This information is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any supplement or medication.
Milk thistle contains silymarin, a group of flavonoids with potent hepatoprotective properties. It's one of the most well-researched herbal supplements for liver health, used clinically in Europe for liver conditions. Protects liver cells from toxins, supports regeneration, and has antioxidant effects. Commonly used for general liver support and after alcohol consumption.
Stabilizes liver cell membranes against toxins
Supports liver cell renewal
Reduces oxidative stress in the liver
How Milk Thistle works — from molecular targets to health outcomes. Click an edge to see supporting research.This visualization is in beta — pathways are being refined and expanded.
200-400mg silymarin (standardized extract)
Take with food
| Form | Type |
|---|---|
| 💊Standardized extract (70-80% silymarin) | Recommended |
| 💊Siliphos (phosphatidylcholine complex) | Alternative |
| 💊Silybin phytosome | Alternative |
Standard silymarin has poor bioavailability. Phytosome/Siliphos forms are better absorbed but more expensive.
Minimum: 4 weeks
Optimal: 12 weeks
Cycling: Not required
Note: Taking with food improves absorption. Phosphatidylcholine-bound forms (Siliphos) may have better bioavailability.
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.
Protects against various liver stressors
May normalize elevated liver enzymes
Increases liver glutathione
Traditionally used but limited safety data; consult doctor
Often used clinically but should be under medical supervision
May affect metabolism of some drugs; consult pharmacist
May have additive blood sugar lowering
May affect metabolism
Tip: Take with food
Tip: Reduce dose
Tip: Discontinue if rash occurs
Both support glutathione and liver health
Comprehensive liver support and detoxification
Both support liver antioxidant capacity
Enhanced liver protection
Both support liver health
Enhanced liver protection and bile support
Both support liver health
Enhanced hepatoprotection
Both support liver health
Enhanced hepatoprotection
Different hepatoprotective mechanisms
Comprehensive liver support
Milk Thistle is generally well-tolerated and considered safe for most healthy adults at recommended doses. The most commonly reported side effects are GI upset, mild laxative effect, allergic reaction. Use caution if any of these apply to you: Allergy to plants in Asteraceae family (ragweed, daisies).
Ginger Extract
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