PROPER NAME:	Silybum Marianum
COMMON NAMES:	Milk thistle, Silymarin, Marian, St. Mary’s, or Lady’s Thistle
PARTS USED:	Fruit (seeds), leaves
FORMS:	Capsule or tea
CLAIMS:	A liver protectant. Silymarin is used for therapy with acute and chronic hepatitis, alcoholic liver disease, and cirrhosis. It is said to increase the secretion and flow of bile from the liver and the gall-bladder. It also increases hepatocyte (liver cell) protein synthesis.
DOSAGE:	200 mg. Capsules of concentrated extract, with 140 mg. Silymarin making up most of the Capsule. Also used as a tea using 1 tsp. of milk thistle and 1 cup of boiling water. Silymarin is absorbed poorly in the gastrointestinal tract, and is poorly water soluble. Sources differ on the best form to consume the silymarin. Some sources report silymarin In the form of a tea is ineffective. The best absorption rate is through a parenteral injection. Milk thistle is sold in the United States in a concentrated capsule. There have not been any reports of interactions with other drugs or nutrients. There is not a recommended dose. Milk thistle has not been approved by the FDA.
SIDE EFFECTS:	One case reported possible abdominal pain, nausea, listlessness, and insomnia. May also have a laxative effect. Milk thistle is contraindicated in pregnant and lactating women.

MILK THISTLE REFERENCES :
Tyler, V., The Honest Herbal. Pharmaceutical Products Press. 1992. Pgs. 209-210.

Hoffman, D., Holistic Herbal. Element Books Inc. 1996.

Flora, K., Hahn, M., Rosen, H., Benner, K., (1998). Milk Thistle (Silybum Marianum) for the Therapy of Liver Disease. American Journal of Gastroenterology. 93(2):139-43.

Disclaimer:
This article is intended to provide basic information only. It is not a recommendation for use or endorsement of any product listed, by the Southeastern Michigan Dietetic Association. Please consult your physician or a health professional before taking any medications or supplements.

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