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Milk Thistle (Silymarin)

Silybum marianum, Silymarin, Silibinin

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Meta Information

ID:milk-thistle
Name:Milk Thistle (Silymarin)
Schema Version:1.5

Title

Milk Thistle

Alternate Names

  • Silybum marianum
  • Silymarin
  • Silibinin

Intervention Type

therapeutic_agent

Expected Cost Mean

Low Cost:
10
High Cost:
25
Cost Type:
monthly
Description:
Standardized silymarin extract capsules are highly affordable.

Summary

Milk Thistle is a botanical extract whose active complex is known as silymarin. It is the most extensively studied herbal remedy for liver health. Silymarin acts as a powerful antioxidant and membrane stabilizer, preventing toxins from entering hepatocytes and stimulating ribosomal RNA polymerase to enhance liver cell regeneration. In the context of longevity, maintaining a pristine liver is critical for metabolic homeostasis, toxin clearance, and preventing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

Purpose

To protect liver cells from toxic damage and accelerate hepatic regeneration.

Card Summary

Hepatoprotective herb that supports liver regeneration and detoxification.

Drug Class

Drugs In Class

Empty Array

Impact

Score:
6.5
Justification:
The liver is a central hub for metabolism and aging; protecting it has vast downstream systemic benefits.

Evidence

Grade:
B
Score:
7.5
Justification:
Extensive clinical data supports its use in various liver conditions, though trials on NAFLD specifically show mixed effect sizes.

Safety

Score:
1
Justification:
Exceptionally safe with very few reported adverse effects, mostly mild gastrointestinal upset.

Flags

  • May have a mild laxative effect at very high doses.
  • Can interact with the CYP3A4 liver enzyme pathway, potentially altering the metabolism of certain prescription drugs.

Verdict

An excellent, highly targeted intervention for preserving liver function and combating metabolic aging.

Created

2026-05-06T18:22:00.000Z

Model

Gemini 3 Flash

Delivery

Route:
oral
Scope:
  • systemic

Indication

Focus:
healthspan
Description:
Used to support hepatic function, mitigate the effects of alcohol or environmental toxins, and protect against fatty liver disease.

Typical Protocol

  • Take 150-300 mg of an extract standardized to 70-80% silymarin, 1-3 times daily, ideally with meals.