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Silybum marianum
This herb is NOT recommended during pregnancy due to potential risks to the developing fetus.
This herb is NOT recommended while breastfeeding as effects on infants are unknown.
Consult your healthcare provider before use.
This herb may interact with medications you are taking. Review the interactions table below and consult your healthcare provider before use.
Milk thistle has been used for over 2,000 years as a natural remedy for liver and gallbladder disorders. Its active compound complex, silymarin, has been extensively studied for hepatoprotective effects. It is one of the few herbs with strong clinical evidence for liver support and protection.
Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum) is the most researched hepatoprotective herb, with silymarin extract showing Level A evidence for liver protection against toxins.
Silymarin stabilizes hepatocyte membranes, stimulates protein synthesis and hepatocyte regeneration, and inhibits NF-κB inflammatory pathway. Phosphatidylcholine complexes (silipide) improve bioavailability 3-5x.
Toxin-induced liver injury
Strong evidence for Amanita mushroom poisoning
NAFLD
Meta-analyses show reduced ALT/AST
Alcoholic liver disease
Cochrane: reduced mortality
Diabetes
Small RCTs show improved HbA1c
| Drug | Severity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Methotrexate | Moderate | Milk thistle may affect methotrexate metabolism. While it may provide liver protection, it could also alter drug levels. |
| Diazepam (Valium) | Mild | Milk thistle may slow the metabolism of diazepam, potentially increasing its sedative effects. |
| Simvastatin | Mild | Milk thistle may slightly increase simvastatin levels through enzyme inhibition. |
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