Learn all about Milk Thistle
What is Milk Thistle?
Detoxify your liver & protect cells with powerful milk thistle silymarin. Supports regeneration after environmental stress. Cleanse effectively!
Benefits of Milk Thistle
"Milk thistle remains one of our most evidence-backed liver-protecting plants. Its multi-faceted way of working - combining strengthening cell walls, antioxidant effects, and promoting repair - makes it uniquely valuable for supporting liver health in our increasingly toxin-laden environment."
- Dr Michael Murray, ND, Fellow of the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (source)
How to use Milk Thistle
Dosage
140-800mg silymarin daily, standardised to 70-80% silymarin content
Timing
May be taken with or without food; dividing into 2-3 doses throughout the day may improve efficacy
Notes
Silymarin is not easily absorbed; special forms (e.g., bound to phosphatidylcholine or in liposomes) may enhance absorption
Who should take Milk Thistle?
- Individuals with liver concerns or elevated liver enzymes
- Those regularly exposed to environmental toxins or alcohol
- People taking multiple medications that stress liver function
- Individuals with metabolic conditions seeking additional support
- Those with inflammatory skin conditions such as psoriasis
How does Milk Thistle work?
Silymarin compounds attach to the outside of liver cells, blocking toxins and strengthening the cell walls. They also encourage the cell's machinery to make more proteins needed for repair and rebuilding. As antioxidants, they neutralise harmful molecules (free radicals) whilst increasing production of glutathione and superoxide dismutase (important antioxidants the body makes). Silymarin also reduces substances that cause inflammation and adjusts how insulin signals work, potentially improving how the body uses sugar.
Frequently asked questions
Natural sources of Milk Thistle
Milk thistle seeds contain the highest concentration of silymarin compounds, while the leaves contain smaller amounts. These active compounds are not readily available in other food sources. Supplements are typically derived from the seeds, which are processed to extract and concentrate the silymarin complex, as the active compounds in raw seeds are not easily absorbed.
Potential side effects & risks
Warnings
Individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions should use caution due to potential mild estrogen-like effects. Not recommended during pregnancy without medical supervision. Those with liver conditions should consult healthcare providers before use, as improvement in liver function may affect medication metabolism.
Side effects
Generally well-tolerated. May occasionally cause mild digestive symptoms including loose stools, nausea, or abdominal discomfort. Allergic reactions possible in individuals sensitive to plants in the Asteraceae family.
Interactions
May affect how the body processes drugs using certain liver enzymes (cytochrome P450). Can potentially interact with hormonal medications, certain antipsychotics, and some anticoagulants. May enhance effects of diabetic medications, requiring monitoring.