Milk thistle is a flowering herb that is native to the Mediterranean region. It has been used for thousands of years as a remedy for a variety of ailments, especially liver problems.
Milk thistle is sometimes called silymarin, which is actually a mixture of the herb’s active components, including silybinin (also called silibinin or silybin).
Milk thistle is believed to have protective effects on the liver and improve its function. It is also traditionally used to provide digestive relief. Other uses include:
Your health care provider may have recommended this product for other conditions. Contact a health care provider if you have questions.
Milk thistle is believed to have protective effects on the liver and improve its function. It is also traditionally used to provide digestive relief. Other uses include:
Your health care provider may have recommended this product for other conditions. Contact a health care provider if you have questions.
Currently, there is limited evidence to suggest that milk thistle is effective for any of its uses.
Reported side effects from milk thistle use include bloating, diarrhea, gas, nausea and upset stomach. However, they do not appear to be common.
Milk thistle can produce allergic reactions, which tend to be more common among people who are allergic to plants in the same family (for example, ragweed, chrysanthemum, marigold, and daisy).
Milk thistle may lower blood sugar levels. People who have diabetes or hypoglycemia, or who are taking drugs or supplements that affect blood sugar levels, should use caution.
Milk thistle may also affect estrogen levels. Before taking milk thistle, let your health care provider know if you have any hormone sensitive cancers or conditions, such as breast cancer, endometriosis, or uterine fibroids.
Milk thistle may interact with the following medications:
Consult your physician prior to using milk thistle if you are pregnant.
Before taking any new medications, including natural health products, speak to your physician, pharmacist, or other health care provider. Tell your health care provider about any natural health products you may be taking.
All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2020. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
View Flyer
Rx Refill
Directions