Milk thistle is an herbal remedy commonly used to promote proper liver function. Milk thistle is considered an invasive species that is toxic to grazing cattle. However, the seeds contain compounds known as silymarin that are potentially useful therapeutically.

Research studies have found milk thistle to possess hepatoprotective capabilities, which means it can help prevent the liver from being damaged by toxic or disease-causing substances. Animal studies found it helped decrease damage caused by acetaminophen (Tylenol), excess iron, alcohol, and carbon tetrachloride.

Animal studies have also found that milk thistle might relieve oxidative stress and decrease memory problems related to Alzheimer’s disease. The neuroprotective abilities of silymarin might also improve skin health, as topical application of silymarin has been found to decrease skin damage from experiemental burns and hinder photocarcinogensis caused by UV radiation.

Human studies have looked into milk thistle’s effectiveness for patients suffering from cirrhosis and hepatitis, but the results so far are varied. One recent study found milk thistle might decrease liver toxicity related to cancer chemotherapy.

Silymarin in milk thistle might also be useful in cases of Amanita phalloides poisoning.

For healthy people, milk thistle is usually promoted as being able to cure hangovers, act as detoxifier or cleanser, and help with anabolic steroid/prohormone use. However, there are no scientific studies related to these uses.

Milk thistle is available in several forms. Active ingredients can be extracted using alcohol to create a tincture. Pills can be made using the seeds. There are also milk thistle teas that use bulk seed, however the active ingredients are minimally infused into steeped teas.

Note that the quality control of milk thistle supplements is a problem, as one independent test found that most milk thistle products tested contained low amounts of active ingredients.

There are some reported side effects of using milk thistle. This includes stomach irritation from capsule or tablet forms. It can also have a milk laxative effect, but this is sometimes desirable.

While it is pretty safe to use milk thistle, pregnant and nursing women as well as those using prescription drugs should check with their doctor before using milk thistle. This is especially important for those taking medications for allergies, statins, anti-anxiety, or blood-thinning. (Posted on 2/20/11)

I've started taking this Milk Thistle for a healthier liver, and just overall well being. It definately exceeding my expectations! It's hard to tell if something like this is really working, but i could feel and see the difference it made right away. A positive side effect i didnt expect was healthier skin and the appearance of it! So far I love it and would recommend this to anyone! (Posted on 1/19/09)

I caught a nasty flu last year that came on quite suddenly and vey quick, it left me with pneumonia for which I was on antibiotics for 3 weeks. Afterwards, i still felt weak and all-around run down. I took this product for a week straight. By the end of the week I felt just as good if not better than usual! I believe the use of these natural means to cleanse my liver and kidneys is why I felt so good! Excellent product! (Posted on 1/19/09)