Milk Thistle
Information, Symptoms, Treatments and Resources
What is Milk Thistle?
Generic Name: milk thistle
Other Brand Names:
silybum
The use of milk thistle in cultural and traditional settings may differ from concepts
accepted by current Western medicine. When considering the use of herbal supplements,
consultation with a primary health care professional is advisable. Additionally, consultation with
a practitioner trained in the uses of herbal/health supplements may be beneficial, and
coordination of treatment among all health care providers involved may be advantageous.
Milk thistle is also known as holy thistle, lady's thistle, Mary thistle, Marian thistle, St.
Mary thistle, silybum, and Silybum marianum.
Milk thistle has been used for stomach and appetite complaints, liver problems,
gallbladder problems, and as an antidote to death cap (Amanita) mushroom poisoning.
Milk thistle has not been evaluated by the FDA for safety, effectiveness, or purity. All
potential risks and/or advantages of milk thistle may not be known. Additionally, there are no
regulated manufacturing standards in place for these compounds. There have been instances
where herbal/health supplements have been sold which were contaminated with toxic metals or
other drugs. Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize
the risk of contamination.
Milk thistle may also have uses other than those listed in this medication guide.
Posts on Milk Thistle (1917)
Milk Thistle - Hepatitis C Community
- Nov 21, 2009
I am Hep C pos (genome type 1b), recently had a liver biopsy and was told that my liver is ...
Milk Thistle/Natural Alternatives - Hepatitis C Community
- Feb 26, 2009
Could anyone tell if it is a good idea to take Milk Thistle after EOT ?
I just therapy ...
Info on Vertex Trials - Hepatitis C Community
- Jan 07, 2009
I am late 30's male who is slightly overweight (5 feet 8 inches and 190lbs). I have a histo...
