Milk Thistle
herbs
Milk thistle is a flowering plant traditionally used to support liver health and detoxification. The active compound silymarin has been studied for its potential hepatoprotective and antioxidant properties.
Benefits
Dosage
Typical Dose
150-300 mg silymarin daily
Upper Limit
600 mg daily
Timing
with meals for better absorption
Forms & Bioavailability
standardised extract
highest; typically standardised to 70-80% silymarin
capsule
good; convenient dosing
dried herb
lower; variable silymarin content
Side Effects
Interactions
Research Summary
Numerous clinical trials have examined silymarin's effects on liver health, with mixed but generally promising results for liver disease support. Research suggests potential benefits in protecting against liver toxicity and supporting regeneration, though more high-quality studies are needed. Evidence remains strongest for safety and traditional use rather than definitive therapeutic claims.
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