When to take it
With meals, split through the day.
← All supplements
OtherWeak evidence
Milk thistle
Also known as: silymarin, Silybum marianum
Milk thistle contains silymarin, a mixture of flavonolignans with antioxidant properties. It is the best-known liver herb, but clinical trial results are inconsistent.
What it is used for
- Liver support under strain – weak and inconsistent evidence
- Antioxidant protection – mainly laboratory evidence
- Treatment of liver disease – does not replace medical care
Forms and how they differ
standardised extract (silymarin)
the most common form, silymarin content usually stated
silybin with phospholipids
better-absorbed form
crushed seed
for tea or food, low concentration
Pairs well with
Less alcohol, a healthy weight and exercise.
Do not combine / separate
Relying on the supplement instead of cutting down on alcohol.
Watch out for
If you are allergic to the daisy family, pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor. It may affect some medicines, and with liver disease use it only after consulting your doctor.
Safety
Do not exceed the dose stated on the label.
Practical tip
The biggest benefit for your liver comes from less alcohol and sugar – the supplement is only an add-on.
Products containing Milk thistle 9
Berberine + Bitter melon + Milk thistleblend
Milk thistle + Artichoke + Dandelion 300 mgsilymarin extract · 300 mg / capsule
Milk thistle + Liver support complexextract
Milk thistleseed powder
Milk thistle silymarin extract 150 mgsilymarin extract · 150 mg / capsule
Milk thistletincture
Milk thistlealcohol-free extract
Milk thistle 450 mgsilymarin extract · 450 mg / capsule
Milk thistlesilybin phytosome
How to read the evidence rating
Strong evidenceModerate evidenceWeak evidenceNo evidence
Strong = several good human studies or official recommendations; moderate = promising but smaller studies; weak = few studies or mixed results; no evidence = claims not confirmed.
Combination check
Select the supplements you take and, if relevant, your medicines. We show what interferes, what needs a time gap and what to watch out for.
Check Milk thistle with othersWhich supplements do you actually need?
Fénix Methode picks them from your blood results and schedules when to take what – no needless purchases.
From the same group
AlfalfaNo evidenceAndrographisWeak evidenceAroniaWeak evidenceBarley grassWeak evidenceBee pollenWeak evidenceBeef organs (desiccated)Weak evidence
Important notice
This information is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist. We do not give medicine dosages. Supplements are no substitute for a varied diet; if pregnant, breastfeeding, ill or on medication, consult a doctor first.