13 Best Benefits Of Silybum Marianum
Silybum marianum, also known as milk thistle, is a plant species widely used for its medicinal properties.
The bioactive compounds responsible for its benefits are primarily flavonolignans, particularly silymarin, which is a mixture of silybin, isosilybin, silydianin, and silychristin.
Silybum marianum has been found to protect against liver damage by shielding liver cells from toxins and promoting regeneration, reduce oxidative stress by neutralizing free radicals, and soothe digestive issues such as nausea and indigestion due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
Regular consumption of silybum marianum extracts has been associated with improved liver function and overall health in individuals with liver diseases and other conditions.
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According to Journal of agricultural and food chemistry, Silybum marianum has hepatoprotective health benefits, which means it helps protect and repair liver cells.
This page lists the most important health benefits of Silybum marianum.
Table of Contents
- 1. Protects against liver damage
- 2. Reduces oxidative stress
- 3. Soothes digestive issues
- 4. Boosts immune system
- 5. Prevents cancer
- 6. Treats hepatitis c
- 7. Treats jaundice
- 8. Reduces inflammation
- 9. Treats cirrhosis
- 10. Improves lipid profiles
- 11. Treats biliary cirrhosis
- 12. Improves kidney function
- 13. Fights off fungal infections
1. Protects against liver damage
Silybum marianum protects against liver damage by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the liver, which is a crucial benefit as liver damage can lead to serious health issues such as cirrhosis, liver failure, and even death.
This benefit is particularly important as liver damage can be caused by various factors such as excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, and exposure to certain chemicals, which can have devastating effects on an individual's quality of life.
The silybum marianum plant contains bioactive constituents such as silymarin, a mixture of flavonoids and polyphenols, which are responsible for its hepatoprotective properties.
To harness the liver-protective benefits of silybum marianum, it is best to consume it in the form of herbal preparations such as capsules or tinctures, which are standardized to contain a specific amount of silymarin.
Top Preparations:
- Silymarin capsules ()
- Milk thistle extract ()
- Silymarin tincture ()
- Liver support
- Liver support capsules ()
The following table displays the major constituents of Silybum marianum and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Protects against liver damage.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Silymarin | Hepatitis, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, cirrhosis |
| Silibinin | Liver cirrhosis, hepatic encephalopathy, liver failure |
| Isosilibinin | Liver toxicity, hepatitis b, liver fibrosis |
2. Reduces oxidative stress
Silybum marianum reduces oxidative stress, which refers to the imbalance between the production of free radicals and the body's ability to neutralize them, leading to cell damage and various diseases.
This benefit is crucial as oxidative stress is linked to the development of conditions such as cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and cardiovascular disease, and is also associated with aging and inflammation.
The plant's ability to reduce oxidative stress can be attributed to its rich content of bioactive constituents, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and silymarin, a complex mixture of polyphenolic compounds that have antioxidant properties.
To harness this benefit, Silybum marianum can be consumed in the form of herbal preparations, such as capsules or tinctures, after consulting with a healthcare professional, or as a dietary supplement in the form of milk thistle extract.
Top Preparations:
- Extract
- Silymarin capsule
- Milk thistle tincture
The following table displays the major constituents of Silybum marianum and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Reduces oxidative stress.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Silymarin | Cirrhosis, fatty liver, hepatitis |
| Isosilybin | Cancer prevention, neuroprotection, antioxidant deficiency |
| Silychristin | Inflammation, cardiovascular disease, diabetes |
| Silydianin | Liver damage, kidney disease, parkinson's disease |
| Silibinin | Hepatotoxicity, neurodegenerative diseases, cancer treatment |
3. Soothes digestive issues
Silybum marianum soothes digestive issues by alleviating symptoms such as bloating, nausea, and abdominal pain, making it an essential benefit for individuals experiencing irritable bowel syndrome, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and other gastrointestinal disorders.
This benefit is particularly important as digestive issues can significantly impact daily life, affecting overall well-being, productivity, and mental health.
The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of Silybum marianum, attributed to its bioactive constituents such as silymarin, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, contribute to its digestive-soothing effects.
To harness the digestive benefits of Silybum marianum, it is best used in herbal preparations like teas, tinctures, or capsules, which can be taken after consulting with a healthcare professional to ensure safe and effective use.
Top Preparations:
- Silymarin tincture ()
- Milk thistle extract ()
- Silybin capsules ()
- Milk thistle tea ()
- Silymarin oil ()
The following table displays the major constituents of Silybum marianum and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Soothes digestive issues.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Silymarin | Gastroenteritis, peptic ulcer, irritable bowel syndrome |
| Isosilybin | Diarrhea, constipation, nausea |
| Silychristin | Hepatitis, jaundice, cholecystitis |
4. Boosts immune system
Silybum marianum boosts immune system by enhancing the body's natural defenses against pathogens and diseases, thereby reducing the risk of infections and illnesses.
This benefit is crucial as a healthy immune system helps protect against a wide range of conditions, including common colds, flu, and even life-threatening diseases such as pneumonia and sepsis.
The plant's immune-boosting properties can be attributed to its rich content of bioactive constituents, including flavonoids, saponins, and terpenoids, particularly silymarin, a polyphenolic compound with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities.
To reap the immune-boosting benefits of Silybum marianum, it is best to consume the plant in the form of herbal preparations such as capsules, tablets, or tinctures, or as a milk thistle tea, in moderation and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Top Preparations:
- Silymarin extract
- Milk thistle extract
- Tincture
- Silymarin capsules
- Milk thistle tea
The following table displays the major constituents of Silybum marianum and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Boosts immune system.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Silymarin | Malaria, typhoid fever, hepatitis b |
| Lignans | Tuberculosis, pneumonia, bronchitis |
| Silibinin | Herpes simplex, influenza, measles |
| Isosilybin | Shingles, pneumococcal infections, rheumatic fever |
5. Prevents cancer
Silybum marianum prevents cancer by inhibiting the growth and proliferation of cancer cells, thereby reducing the risk of developing various types of cancer.
This benefit is particularly important as cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide, with examples such as breast, lung, and colon cancer accounting for a significant number of cancer-related deaths.
The silymarin bioactive constituents found in Silybum marianum, including flavonoids, polyphenols, and saponins, are responsible for its anticancer properties.
To utilize the anticancer benefits of Silybum marianum, it is best to consume it in herbal preparations such as milk thistle extract capsules, tinctures, or teas, which can be taken as a dietary supplement to support liver health and cancer prevention.
Top Preparations:
- Silymarin capsules ()
- Milk thistle extract ()
- Silybin phytosome ()
- Silymarin tablets ()
- Extract
The following table displays the major constituents of Silybum marianum and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Prevents cancer.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Silymarin | Colorectal cancer, liver cancer, prostate cancer |
| Silibinin | Breast cancer, lung cancer, skin cancer |
| Silidianin | Colon cancer, ovarian cancer, pancreatic cancer |
6. Treats hepatitis c
Silybum marianum treats hepatitis C by possessing antiviral properties, specifically inhibiting the replication of the hepatitis C virus and reducing liver inflammation.
This benefit is crucial as hepatitis C is a chronic liver disease that can progress to cirrhosis, liver failure, and even liver cancer, affecting millions of people worldwide.
The antiviral properties of Silybum marianum are attributed to its rich content of bioactive constituents such as silymarin, a mixture of flavonoids and polyphenols that have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
To harness the antiviral properties of Silybum marianum, it can be consumed as a dietary supplement in the form of capsules, tablets, or liquid extracts, or used as a herbal tea, but it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before using it as a treatment for hepatitis C.
Top Preparations:
- Silymarin capsules ()
- Milk thistle extract ()
- Silymarin tablets ()
- Silymarin oil
- Silymarin tincture ()
The following table displays the major constituents of Silybum marianum and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Treats hepatitis c.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Silymarin | Chronic hepatitis c, liver cirrhosis, fatty liver disease |
| Silibinin | Hepatitis c virus infection, liver fibrosis, liver cancer |
| Isosilybin | Chronic liver disease, liver damage, hepatitis c symptoms |
| Silychristin | Liver enzyme imbalance, liver function disorder, hepatitis c complications |
| Silydianin | Liver inflammation, liver scarring, hepatitis c complications |
7. Treats jaundice
Silybum marianum treats jaundice, a condition characterized by a yellowing of the skin and eyes due to a buildup of bilirubin in the blood.
This benefit is crucial as jaundice can be a symptom of liver disease, and its presence can indicate a range of conditions, including hepatitis, cirrhosis, and pancreatic insufficiency, which can be life-threatening if left untreated.
The plant's ability to treat jaundice can be attributed to its bioactive constituents, including flavonoids, sesquiterpenes, and silymarin, which have been shown to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective properties.
To harness the therapeutic potential of Silybum marianum for treating jaundice, it is best used as a standardized herbal extract or milk thistle supplement, which can be taken orally in the form of capsules, tablets, or liquid tinctures under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Top Preparations:
- Silymarin extract
- Milk thistle seed extract
- Tincture
The following table displays the major constituents of Silybum marianum and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Treats jaundice.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Silymarin | Hepatic dysfunction, jaundice, liver cirrhosis |
| Isosilybin | Hepatitis, fatty liver disease, gilbert syndrome |
| Silibinin | Liver cancer, hepatic encephalopathy, cholestasis |
| Silychristin | Liver failure, bile duct obstruction, portal hypertension |
8. Reduces inflammation
Silybum marianum reduces inflammation, which is the body's natural response to injury or damage, characterized by redness, swelling, and pain.
This benefit is crucial as chronic inflammation is linked to various health issues, such as arthritis, cardiovascular disease, and cancer, making it essential to manage and prevent inflammation to maintain overall well-being.
The anti-inflammatory properties of Silybum marianum are attributed to its bioactive constituents, including flavonoids, lignans, and silymarin, a mixture of isomers of silicic acid, which work together to inhibit pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines.
To harness this benefit, Silybum marianum is best used in herbal preparations, such as capsules, tablets, or extracts, which can be taken orally to support liver health and reduce inflammation in the body.
Top Preparations:
- Extract
- Milk thistle oil
- Silymarin capsules
The following table displays the major constituents of Silybum marianum and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Reduces inflammation.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Silymarin | Arthritis, gout, rheumatism |
| Isosibirin | Inflammatory bowel disease, crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis |
| Silybin | Lupus, multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia |
| Dehydroisosibirin | Psoriasis, eczema, acne |
| Silydianin | Asthma, chronic bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease |
9. Treats cirrhosis
Silybum marianum treats cirrhosis by inhibiting liver inflammation and promoting liver cell regeneration, essentially reversing liver damage.
This benefit is crucial as cirrhosis can lead to liver failure, organ transplantation, and even death, as seen in cases where patients are unable to undergo a liver transplant.
The silymarin content, a bioactive compound derived from the seeds of Silybum marianum, is responsible for its protective and regenerative properties on the liver.
To utilize this plant's benefits, it is best to consume silymarin in the form of standardized herbal supplements, such as capsules or tablets, or as milk thistle extract, which is often used to treat liver conditions, including cirrhosis.
Top Preparations:
- Silymarin extract
- Milk thistle extract
- Extract
The following table displays the major constituents of Silybum marianum and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Treats cirrhosis.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Silymarin | Cirrhosis, liver fibrosis, necrosis |
| Silibinin | Liver damage, portal hypertension, hepatic encephalopathy |
| Isosilybin | Hepatitis, liver cancer, liver cirrhosis |
| Silydianin | Liver regeneration, antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory |
| Silychristin | Antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory, antiviral activity |
10. Improves lipid profiles
Silybum marianum improves lipid profiles by enhancing the balance of lipids in the bloodstream, particularly by increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels and reducing low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels.
This benefit is important because it can help prevent cardiovascular diseases, such as atherosclerosis and heart attacks, which are often associated with high levels of LDL cholesterol and low levels of HDL cholesterol.
The lipid-improving properties of Silybum marianum can be attributed to its bioactive constituents, including flavonoids, terpenoids, and saponins, which have been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
To utilize Silybum marianum for its lipid-improving properties, it is best to consume it in the form of herbal preparations, such as capsules or tablets standardized to contain 70-80% silymarin, or as a liquid extract, after consulting with a healthcare professional.
Top Preparations:
- Extract capsules
- Milk thistle seed oil
- Silymarin tablets
- Oil softgels
The following table displays the major constituents of Silybum marianum and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Improves lipid profiles.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Silymarin | Hyperlipidemia, hypertension, dyslipidemia |
| Isosilybin | Atherosclerosis, hypercholesterolemia, fatty liver |
| Silybin | Hypertriglyceridemia, lipid peroxidation, cholesterol gallstones |
11. Treats biliary cirrhosis
Silybum marianum treats biliary cirrhosis, a condition characterized by scarring and inflammation of the bile ducts, leading to impaired liver function and potential complications such as jaundice and liver failure.
This benefit is crucial as biliary cirrhosis can significantly impact a person's quality of life, causing symptoms like abdominal pain, fatigue, and weight loss, and may even lead to liver transplantation in severe cases.
The plant's ability to treat biliary cirrhosis is attributed to its rich content of bioactive constituents, including silymarin, a mixture of flavonoids and polyphenols that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
To harness the benefits of Silybum marianum for biliary cirrhosis, it is best to use it in the form of herbal supplements, such as silymarin capsules or tablets, or as a liquid extract, under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Top Preparations:
- Silymarin extract capsules ()
- Milk thistle extract ()
- Tincture
The following table displays the major constituents of Silybum marianum and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Treats biliary cirrhosis.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Silymarin | Biliary cirrhosis, liver damage, hepatitis b |
| Lignans | Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, hepatic encephalopathy, jaundice |
| Flavonoids | Cholestasis, liver fibrosis, gallstones |
12. Improves kidney function
Silybum marianum improves kidney function by enhancing the body's ability to filter waste and excess fluids, ultimately leading to better overall renal health.
This benefit is crucial as impaired kidney function can lead to serious complications such as kidney disease, high blood pressure, and even kidney failure, which can require costly and invasive treatments like dialysis or kidney transplantation.
The silymarin compound present in Silybum marianum is responsible for its kidney-protective effects, as it contains bioactive constituents like flavonoids, alkaloids, and polyphenols that work synergistically to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the kidneys.
To harness the kidney-protective benefits of Silybum marianum, it's best to consume the plant in the form of standardized silymarin extracts or herbal supplements, which can be found in capsule or tablet form, and should be taken as directed under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Top Preparations:
- Extract
- Milk thistle capsules
- Silymarin tablets
- Silymarin suspension
- St mary's thistle drops
The following table displays the major constituents of Silybum marianum and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Improves kidney function.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Silymarin | Nephrotic syndrome, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, chronic kidney disease |
| Silibinin | Acute kidney injury, kidney stones, renal tubular necrosis |
| Isosilibinin | Glomerulonephritis, polycystic kidney disease, renal failure |
| Deoxysilibinin | Pyelonephritis, chronic interstitial nephritis, kidney fibrosis |
| Silicristin | Acute tubular necrosis, chronic kidney disease stage 5, end-stage renal disease |
13. Fights off fungal infections
Silybum marianum fights off fungal infections by inhibiting the growth and spread of fungal pathogens, which can cause a range of diseases in humans and animals.
This benefit is important because fungal infections can be debilitating and even life-threatening, especially in immunocompromised individuals, such as those with HIV/AIDS or undergoing chemotherapy, and in agricultural settings where fungal diseases can devastate crops.
The plant's ability to fight off fungal infections is attributed to its bioactive constituents, including silymarin, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, which have potent antifungal properties.
To harness this benefit, Silybum marianum can be used in herbal preparations such as tinctures, capsules, or teas, which can be taken orally to support immune function and prevent fungal infections.
Top Preparations:
- Silymarin capsules ()
- Milk thistle extract ()
- Silymarin tincture ()
- Oil
- Silymarin powder ()
The following table displays the major constituents of Silybum marianum and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Fights off fungal infections.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Silymarin | Candidiasis, athlete's foot, ringworm |
| Silibinin | Fungal dermatitis, tinea pedis, onychomycosis |
| Isosilibinin | Fungal infections of the nails, vaginal candidiasis, oral thrush |