313 science-backed nutrients
3251 sources considered
Evidence-graded information
Explore by goal or category

Silymarin

Moderate study situation·7/10
A higher score indicates better study conditions, but not necessarily effectiveness.

Silymarin is a flavonoid-rich extract from milk thistle seeds, used primarily for liver support and antioxidant protection.

Anti-inflammatoryCancer-inhibitorAntioxidantLiver HealthGallbladder Support
dose range
200–400 mg
2–3 divided doses per day
Consumption
Take with meals to enhance absorption and reduce potential stomach discomfort.
Not fat-soluble.
Best time
Often taken with the first or second meal of the day.

Add to your nutrient protocol

Configure dosage and timing

Time of day
When do you want to take this nutrient?
Description

Silymarin, extracted from the seeds of the milk thistle plant (Silybum marianum), contains a mix of compounds called flavonolignans. It has a traditional and research-backed reputation for supporting liver health and offering antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

benefits
Main effects with level of evidence
Moderate
Note on evidence

Human studies suggest benefits for liver health, but evidence for other uses is less established.

Supports liver health and function

Moderate

Silymarin is most recognized for its ability to protect the liver and may help improve markers of liver health in cases of damage from alcohol, medications, or disease.

Particularly relevant for: People with liver disorders · People exposed to liver toxins
src1 · Healthline - Milk Thistle Benefitssrc2 · PMC: Milk Thistle in Liver Diseasessrc5 · NIH LiverTox - Milk Thistlesrc6 · NIH ODS - Milk Thistle Fact Sheetsrc8 · Cochrane Review - Milk Thistle for Liver Disease

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity

Moderate

Acts as an antioxidant, scavenging free radicals, and may reduce inflammation, especially in hepatic tissue.

Particularly relevant for: Adults · People with liver or metabolic conditions
src1 · Healthline - Milk Thistle Benefitssrc2 · PMC: Milk Thistle in Liver Diseasessrc3 · Examine.com - Silymarinsrc6 · NIH ODS - Milk Thistle Fact Sheet

Potential adjunct in management of certain chronic conditions

Limited

Preliminary studies suggest silymarin may play a role in adjunctive management of conditions like type 2 diabetes or nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), though robust evidence is lacking.

Particularly relevant for: People with metabolic syndrome · People with NAFLD
src2 · PMC: Milk Thistle in Liver Diseasessrc3 · Examine.com - Silymarinsrc8 · Cochrane Review - Milk Thistle for Liver Disease

Explored for anticancer effects

Theoretical

Animal and cell studies suggest silymarin may have properties that inhibit cancer cell growth, but clinical evidence in humans is not established.

Particularly relevant for: General population
src2 · PMC: Milk Thistle in Liver Diseasessrc3 · Examine.com - Silymarin

Last updated:

This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
About usContact usLegal NoticeFAQsPrivacy PolicyTerms & Conditions

Follow us on social media

XInstagramTikTok

Copyright © 2026 – All rights reserved by Numevo OÜ

This website is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice or professional services. The information provided should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. Persons requiring medical advice should consult a licensed physician.