Overview

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 16 Researches
7.5
USERS' SCORE
Moderately Good
Based on 116 Reviews
7.7
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 2 Softgels
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Milk Thistle Phospholipid Proprietary BlendMilk thistle extract (fruit) [providing 480 mg silymarin, 180 mg silybin, 48 mg isosilybin A and isosilybin B], phospholipids
760 mg
**
SILIPHOS® phytosome milk thistle extract (fruit) [providing 47.52 mg silybin]
160 mg
**

Top Medical Research Studies

We investigated the effects of silymarin on liver and heart health under oxidative stress from paracetamol. In a controlled study with 28 male mice, silymarin showed a strong potential to reduce liver injury markers and improve liver enzyme levels after treatment.

Histopathological assessments revealed less tissue damage and inflammation in mice treated with silymarin compared to those that only received paracetamol. Overall, these findings demonstrate that silymarin is a promising option to help protect the liver and heart from oxidative stress-related injury.
Read More
8
Lipid balance and liver protection
We explored how silybin A, a key ingredient from silybum marianum, impacts liver health. Through studies on liver cells and mice, we discovered that silybin A effectively lowers triglyceride levels while boosting essential phospholipids, supporting a healthy lipid balance.

Our findings suggest that silybin offers protective benefits against liver damage, particularly in cases of mild metabolic imbalance. However, its effectiveness seems limited in more severe liver disease scenarios, highlighting the nuances of its liver-protective properties.
Read More
8
Silymarin showed enhanced liver protection
We explored how different forms of silymarin, derived from milk thistle seeds, affect liver health in older hens. In a study with 70 hens, various treatments were given over 12 weeks, including control groups.

We found that higher doses of nano-silymarin and lecithinized silymarin showed significant benefits, such as improved liver enzyme activity and decreased fatty liver symptoms. However, silymarin was less effective at lower doses, which indicates that careful dosing is crucial for optimal results in managing liver issues.
Read More

Most Useful Reviews

7
Hepatoprotective benefits
141 people found this helpful
Milk thistle fruits have a hepatoprotective effect, improve liver function, and normalise digestion. They protect hepatocytes and enhance their resistance to infections and various types of poisoning. Additionally, milk thistle promotes bile formation and accelerates its excretion, thereby normalising digestion and metabolism.
Read More
8.5
Detoxification support
33 people found this helpful
After my brother-in-law's liver cancer diagnosis, his doctor recommended European milk thistle for its detoxifying properties. I've taken it for seven years, with excellent liver and kidney results. My new doctor is pleased with my consistent use.
Read More
9
Detox support
20 people found this helpful
This supplement is excellent for liver detox while undergoing treatment for Lyme disease and mold toxin illness, which can adversely affect liver function. My ALT levels were consistently high, but after starting milk thistle, they returned to normal. My doctor was very impressed with the results, and I highly recommend this product for liver support.
Read More

Medical Researches

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 16 Researches
7.5
  • All Researches
We investigated the effects of silymarin on liver and heart health under oxidative stress from paracetamol. In a controlled study with 28 male mice, silymarin showed a strong potential to reduce liver injury markers and improve liver enzyme levels after treatment.

Histopathological assessments revealed less tissue damage and inflammation in mice treated with silymarin compared to those that only received paracetamol. Overall, these findings demonstrate that silymarin is a promising option to help protect the liver and heart from oxidative stress-related injury.
Read More
9
Silymarin improves liver health in mice
We investigated how silymarin, along with other natural compounds, affects non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in mice. Over 16 weeks, mice on a high-fat diet received silymarin supplements, which significantly improved liver health and reduced fat buildup.

Notably, these changes were linked to beneficial shifts in gut bacteria and their metabolites. The study shows that silymarin may play a key role in enhancing liver function through its positive influence on gut microbiota, offering promising insights for NAFLD treatment.
Read More
9
Effective liver protection with nano-SM
We investigated the potential of a specially formulated version of Silybum marianum, known as nano-SM, to combat liver damage caused by a compound called 17α-ethinylestradiol (EE).

In an experiment involving female rats, we discovered that nano-SM significantly reduced harmful liver enzymes and improved antioxidant levels compared to untreated rats.

This suggests that nano-SM could effectively protect the liver from cholestasis-related injury by enhancing the removal of bile acids and reducing inflammation.
Read More
8
Lipid balance and liver protection
We explored how silybin A, a key ingredient from silybum marianum, impacts liver health. Through studies on liver cells and mice, we discovered that silybin A effectively lowers triglyceride levels while boosting essential phospholipids, supporting a healthy lipid balance.

Our findings suggest that silybin offers protective benefits against liver damage, particularly in cases of mild metabolic imbalance. However, its effectiveness seems limited in more severe liver disease scenarios, highlighting the nuances of its liver-protective properties.
Read More
We conducted a randomized, double-blind trial to explore the impact of a Silybum marianum (SM) and alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) formulation, combined with a Mediterranean diet, on liver health in those with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatosis.

Our findings showed that this combination can successfully reduce visceral fat and liver fat content over 24 weeks.

Although some patients experienced mild side effects, both treatment and control groups had similar results in this regard. Ultimately, SM-ALA alongside a Mediterranean diet may bring significant benefits to managing liver damage associated with metabolic disorders.
Read More

User Reviews

USERS' SCORE
Moderately Good
Based on 116 Reviews
7.7
  • All Reviews
  • Positive Reviews
  • Negative Reviews
7
Hepatoprotective benefits
141 people found this helpful
Milk thistle fruits have a hepatoprotective effect, improve liver function, and normalise digestion. They protect hepatocytes and enhance their resistance to infections and various types of poisoning. Additionally, milk thistle promotes bile formation and accelerates its excretion, thereby normalising digestion and metabolism.
Read More
8.5
Detoxification support
33 people found this helpful
After my brother-in-law's liver cancer diagnosis, his doctor recommended European milk thistle for its detoxifying properties. I've taken it for seven years, with excellent liver and kidney results. My new doctor is pleased with my consistent use.
Read More
9
Detox support
20 people found this helpful
This supplement is excellent for liver detox while undergoing treatment for Lyme disease and mold toxin illness, which can adversely affect liver function. My ALT levels were consistently high, but after starting milk thistle, they returned to normal. My doctor was very impressed with the results, and I highly recommend this product for liver support.
Read More
9
Great liver support
12 people found this helpful
This is a fantastic product. It's a shame that more doctors aren't keen on promoting Milk Thistle as a liver supplement. In five months, my AST levels improved from an out-of-range 61 to a normal 20, and my ALT levels dropped from 128 to 26. Anyone with liver issues, particularly those with stressed livers, should consider this supplement.
Read More
9
Skin issues resolved
10 people found this helpful
I bought this to support my liver due to hepatitis B. The liver is first to take a hit from what we consume. After switching to these capsules twice daily, I've noticed the dermatitis I've battled for years has vanished! I'm thrilled!
Read More

Frequently Asked Questions

9
Protects liver effectively
1 people found this helpful
It effectively protects the liver. I purchased it for my mother when her liver function index was abnormal. After a month of use, her condition improved upon re-examination! I will continue to repurchase this product.
9
Very obvious effects
5 people found this helpful
After two years of consistent usage and regular physical check-ups, my liver index remains within standard limits each time. The benefits have been remarkably clear, and I strongly recommend this to everyone!
9
Great liver support
12 people found this helpful
This is a fantastic product. It's a shame that more doctors aren't keen on promoting Milk Thistle as a liver supplement. In five months, my AST levels improved from an out-of-range 61 to a normal 20, and my ALT levels dropped from 128 to 26. Anyone with liver issues, particularly those with stressed livers, should consider this supplement.
10
Normalised liver values
1 people found this helpful
When my liver values climbed into the “red zone”, I discovered milk thistle online. After over a year of taking it, my values have normalised. I’m grateful for the results!
9
Skin issues resolved
10 people found this helpful
I bought this to support my liver due to hepatitis B. The liver is first to take a hit from what we consume. After switching to these capsules twice daily, I've noticed the dermatitis I've battled for years has vanished! I'm thrilled!
9
Effective liver detox
2 people found this helpful
I've been using Life Extension, Advanced Milk Thistle for weeks and am impressed with the results. This supplement has made me feel more balanced, improving digestion and decreasing bloating, likely due to better liver function. The softgels are easy to consume, and I appreciate the high-quality ingredients.
7.5
Effective liver cleansing
3 people found this helpful
I absolutely love this product for cleansing and balancing the liver. After taking necessary strong medication like antibiotics, it’s vital to support the liver. There are no side effects, and while the capsule is large, it’s still easy to swallow. I highly recommend it.
9
Increased energy
1 people found this helpful
I have been taking an improved milk thistle formula for liver support and have noticed a significant improvement in my health. I feel more energetic, my digestion has improved, and the heaviness after eating is gone. It is a natural means for detoxification and protection of the liver, and I am very pleased with the results. Now, it is a mandatory part of my health care.
8
Positive liver support
4 people found this helpful
Excellent preparation for the liver; I regularly take milk thistle supplements. You need to take 2 capsules a day, and the packaging lasts for a month. I didn't notice any negative effects. I highly recommend purchasing it.
7.5
Supports liver function
7 people found this helpful
I use Milk Thistle in courses to aid my liver function. I opted for this brand because it has the highest effective dosage, aiding in liver detoxification and cell regeneration, while acting as a mild choleretic agent.

References

  1. Koeberle SC, Thürmer M, Su F, Werner M, Grander J, et al. Silybin A from reprograms lipid metabolism to induce a cell fate-dependent class switch from triglycerides to phospholipids. Theranostics. 2025;15:2006. 10.7150/thno.99562
  2. Cano Contreras AD, Del Rocío Francisco M, Vargas Basurto JL, Gonzalez-Gomez KD, Amieva-Balmori M, et al. Effect of alpha-lipoic acid and supplementation with a Mediterranean diet on metabolic dysfunction-associated steatosis. World J Hepatol. 2025;17:101704. 10.4254/wjh.v17.i1.101704
  3. Shaker MK, Hassany M, Eysa B, Adel A, Zidan A, et al. The activity of a herbal medicinal product of Phyllanthus niruri and Silybum marianum powdered extracts (Heptex®) in patients with apparent risk factors for nonalcoholic steatohepatitis: a phase II, multicentered, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. BMC Complement Med Ther. 2025;25:8. 10.1186/s12906-024-04692-y
  4. Selc M, Macova R, Babelova A. Novel Strategies Enhancing Bioavailability and Therapeutical Potential of Silibinin for Treatment of Liver Disorders. Drug Des Devel Ther. 2024;18:4629. 10.2147/DDDT.S483140
  5. Faryadi S, Sheikhahmadi A, Farhadi A, Nourbakhsh H. Evaluating the therapeutic effect of different forms of silymarin on liver status and expression of some genes involved in fat metabolism, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory in older laying hens. Vet Med Sci. 2024;10:e70025. 10.1002/vms3.70025
  6. Dhande D, Dhok A, Anjankar A, Nagpure S. Silymarin as an Antioxidant Therapy in Chronic Liver Diseases: A Comprehensive Review. Cureus. 2024;16:e67083. 10.7759/cureus.67083
  7. Li BY, Xi Y, Liu YP, Wang D, Wang C, et al. Effects of Silybum marianum, Pueraria lobate, combined with Salvia miltiorrhiza tablets on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in adults: A triple-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Clin Nutr ESPEN. 2024;63:2. 10.1016/j.clnesp.2024.06.003
  8. Jaffar HM, Al-Asmari F, Khan FA, Rahim MA, Zongo E. Silymarin: Unveiling its pharmacological spectrum and therapeutic potential in liver diseases-A comprehensive narrative review. Food Sci Nutr. 2024;12:3097. 10.1002/fsn3.4010
  9. Okiljević B, Martić N, Govedarica S, Andrejić Višnjić B, Bosanac M, et al. Cardioprotective and Hepatoprotective Potential of Silymarin in Paracetamol-Induced Oxidative Stress. Pharmaceutics. 2024;16. 10.3390/pharmaceutics16040520
  10. Wang X, Jin Y, Di C, Zeng Y, Zhou Y, et al. Supplementation of Silymarin Alone or in Combination with Salvianolic Acids B and Puerarin Regulates Gut Microbiota and Its Metabolism to Improve High-Fat Diet-Induced NAFLD in Mice. Nutrients. 2024;16. 10.3390/nu16081169
  11. Salem MB, Mohammed DM, Hammam OA, Elzallat M. Mitigation of intrahepatic cholestasis induced by 17α-ethinylestradiol via nanoformulation of Silybum marianum L. BMC Complement Med Ther. 2024;24:51. 10.1186/s12906-024-04351-2
  12. Singla RK, Singh D, Verma R, Kaushik D, Echeverría J, et al. Fermented formulation of Silybum marianum seeds: Optimization, heavy metal analysis, and hepatoprotective assessment. Phytomedicine. 2024;124:155286. 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.155286
  13. Calderon Martinez E, Herrera D, Mogan S, Hameed Z, Jangda AA, et al. Impact of Silymarin Supplements on Liver Enzyme Levels: A Systematic Review. Cureus. 2023;15:e47608. 10.7759/cureus.47608
  14. Ma X, Yu X, Li R, Cui J, Yu H, et al. Berberine-silybin salt achieves improved anti-nonalcoholic fatty liver disease effect through regulating lipid metabolism. J Ethnopharmacol. 2024;319:117238. 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117238
  15. Talebi A, Soltani R, Khorvash F, Jouabadi SM. The Effectiveness of Silymarin in the Prevention of Anti-tuberculosis Drug-induced Hepatotoxicity: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial. Int J Prev Med. 2023;14:48. 10.4103/ijpvm.ijpvm_81_22
  16. Ghodousi M, Karbasforooshan H, Arabi L, Elyasi S. Silymarin as a preventive or therapeutic measure for chemotherapy and radiotherapy-induced adverse reactions: a comprehensive review of preclinical and clinical data. Eur J Clin Pharmacol. 2023;79:15. 10.1007/s00228-022-03434-8
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