Silymarin Effects, Benefits and Anti-Aging Uses

Silymarin is extracted from the seeds of the milk thistle plant. Milk thistle Silybum marianum is a plant from the Asteraceae family.

It is known by a number of monikers, including St. Mary Thistle and Blessed Milk Thistle.

Silymarin has been used for over two thousand years to treat a variety of ailments, particularly disorders of the liver caused by poisonous mushrooms, alcoholism, drug abuse and disease.

Research into the effects of Silymarin shows that it acts as an anti-oxidant and can help to protect the liver from some forms of free radical damage. Silymarin and milk thistle are often used as natural anti-aging supplements and as part of detox or cleanse regimens.

Milk Thistle

Herbal Supplement

Liver Health

Detox

Longevity

How It Works:

• Supports liver health & detox
• Anti-oxidant & anti-inflammatory properties
• Improves insulin sensitivity & cholesterol

Dosage:

Between 140 - 800 mg per day

Safety:

Rated Likely Safe

Top Milk Thistle Products* ❯

View User Ratings* ❯

What does Silymarin do in the body?

Silymarin is a flavonolignan complex that is thought to be the most biologically active constituent of milk thistle.

It was traditionally extracted from the seeds of the plant and is comprised of several flavonolignans and flavonoids, collectively referred to as silymarin.

Flavonoids are known antioxidants and silymarin has been observed to exhibit antioxidant properties. For instance, it is believed to help prevent damage to the liver caused by free radicals and protect the liver organ itself from some of the effects of alcohol and drug consumption (particularly steroids).

Silymarin is often taken to prevent liver damage and to promote the growth of new liver cells. Studies regarding the use of milk thistle as a therapy for liver disease are inconclusive.

This supplement should not be used as a replacement for a healthy lifestyle, which includes avoiding the overconsumption of alcohol and other toxic substances.

Silymarin Benefits

In addition to its antioxidant profile, silymarin has been observed to increase levels of glutathione, catalase, superoxide dismutase and other enzymes that are thought to play a role in protecting the liver. In particular, Silymarin’s effects on Superoxide dismutase (SOD) have been highlighted for potential anti-cancer and immune boosting benefits.

SOD helps neutralize certain free radicals, reducing the speed and frequency of cellular damage caused by oxidation. A common free radical in the human body is superoxide. Superoxide radicals are responsible for breaking down synovial fluid found in the joints, which can eventually lead to arthritic conditions, including bone friction and inflammation.

In addition to its ability to neutralize superoxide free radicals, SOD from silymarin extract can help the body better utilize some minerals, including manganese, zinc and copper. Levels of superoxide dismutase are known to gradually decline throughout the aging process, whereas production of free radicals is known to increase.

For this reason, some point to SOD and other antioxidants in milk thistle extract as compounds that help protect against some of the normal effects of aging.

Silymarin and Glutatione and Catalase

Like superoxide dismutase, glutathione is an extremely powerful antioxidant produced in the liver. Silymarin is observed to increase the levels of this natural chemical.

Glutathione is typically released through liver bile, although some stores of glutathione in the liver are released directly into the bloodstream to help encourage the optimal function of red and white blood cells.

Glutathione is required for the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates and may account for some anti-aging benefits attributed to milk thistle. It helps to break down oxidized fats that are associated with hardening of the arteries, which is characteristic of atherosclerosis.

Silymarin has also been observed to increase catalase levels in the body. Catalase is an enzyme found throughout the body and is responsible for removing the hydrogen peroxide byproducts released during chemical reactions involving SOD. Consequently, it also helps neutralize damaging compounds in the human body.

Milk Thistle and Silymarin Uses

Milk thistle and silymarin have been used for a variety of indications beyond liver health and function. According to the Mayo Clinic, silymarin is often used in the treatment of osteoarthritis, diabetic neuropathy, diabetes and even nasal allergy symptoms.

Some studies indicate that silymarin may help reduce resistance to insulin. In a study of patients with type II diabetes, some individuals who received silymarin supplements were observed to have improved blood glucose regulation and improved indications of healthy liver function.

Although promising, such results do not definitively indicate silymarin can play a role in the treatment of diabetes or associated symptoms.

Silymarin extracted from milk thistle may also contain many useful nutrients, including: calcium, iron, essential fatty acids, phosphorus, manganese, potassium, selenium and zinc. Silymarin is found throughout the milk thistle plant even though it is most concentrated in the plant’s seeds or fruits. Consequently, leaves of the milk thistle plant have also been used for medicinal purposes.

How do I take Silymarin?

Silymarin or milk thistle is most commonly purchased in gel-capsule form. Dosage depends on the form of silymarin or milk thistle. For example, the dose of milk thistle in herb form is often between 12 and 15 grams.

Conversely, silymarin supplement doses often range between 200 and 400 mg. Silymarin supplement dosage will depend on age and reason for use. Be sure to follow label instructions because concentrations will vary according to brand and manufacturer.

Avoid using silymarin or milk thistle if you are currently taking medications that lower blood sugar. Silymarin or milk thistle herbs and supplements may also interfere with the efficacy of additional prescription and over-the-counter medications that include anti-anxiety, anti-inflammatory, cholesterol-lowering agents, and medications for heart and skin conditions.

Be sure to speak to your doctor before beginning silymarin supplementation to make sure the herb is right for you.

Rate This Article

(3 votes, average: 5.00 out of 5, rated)