Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum)

Overview

In plain language

Milk thistle supports liver function, detoxification, and antioxidant regeneration, helping protect cells from oxidative stress.

Rich in silymarin flavonoids, milk thistle promotes liver cell repair and helps neutralize toxins. It’s used to support healthy digestion, cholesterol balance, and skin clarity. For seniors, it enhances detox pathways and immune defense.

Benefits

Use this section to compare the kinds of benefits people most often look for from this treatment.

General Benefits

Supports liver health, detox balance, and antioxidant capacity.

Physical Benefits

Protects liver cells: Shields against toxin damage.
Supports detox enzymes: Promotes healthy liver metabolism.
Improves digestion: Enhances bile production.
Reduces inflammation: Calms oxidative stress.
Supports skin health: Promotes clear, balanced complexion.
Regulates cholesterol: Aids lipid metabolism.

Mental Benefits

Improves clarity: Supports detox-related energy.
Reduces fatigue: Enhances vitality.
Promotes calm: Balanced detox supports well-being.
Supports focus: Better energy improves alertness.

Additional Information

Related Conditions: Liver disease, oxidative stress, fatigue, high cholesterol, inflammation, detox deficiency, skin aging

Conditions This May Help With

See where this treatment appears most often and review the related condition pages for context.

Health Condition

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), is a complex medical condition characterized by severe fatigue that is not relieved by rest. This debilitating fatigue can significantly impact daily activities and overall quality of life. While CFS can affect people of all ages, it is particularly prevalent among middle-aged individuals.

2 studies

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Health Condition

High Cholesterol

High cholesterol is a condition characterized by elevated levels of cholesterol in the blood, and it is a major risk factor for heart disease. Cholesterol, a waxy substance produced by the liver, is also found in certain foods.

1 study

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Health Condition

Inflammaging

Inflammaging is a term used to describe the chronic, low-grade inflammation that occurs as we age. This chronic inflammation can contribute to a variety of age-related diseases, including heart disease, Alzheimer's disease, and cancer. Understanding inflammaging can help us develop strategies to promote healthy aging and reduce the risk of age-related diseases.

1 study

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Health Condition

Fatty Liver

Fatty liver disease is a condition characterized by the accumulation of excess fat in the liver. While it can affect people of all ages, it is particularly common among older adults. If left untreated, fatty liver disease can lead to serious health complications, including liver cirrhosis and liver cancer.

1 study

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Supporting Research

Review the available studies by quality score or date to see where the evidence is strongest.

Research Study

Milk Thistle Extract Shows Promise for Liver Health in Adults with NASH

Well Supported

In a study, milk thistle extract was found to be safe but did not significantly improve liver scores in adults with NASH.

5/10/2026

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Research Study

Herbal Remedies May Support Liver Health in Seniors with NAFLD

Limited Support

Recent research suggests that certain herbal treatments like wolfberry and garlic may help improve liver health in seniors with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

4/1/2013

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Research Study