SILYMARIN (Milk thistle)

Possible applications:
Alcoholic Liver Disease
Atherosclerosis
Gallbladder Disease
Hepatitis
Immunodepression
Psoriasis

Silybum marianum or milk thistle is found in dry rocky soils of southern and western Europe and some parts of the US.  The seeds, fruit, and leaves are used medicinally.  Its extract is composed of three flavonoid molecules which have been shown to have positive effects treating any liver disease including cirrhosis, hepatitis, and chemical or alcohol induced fatty liver. Its ability to help the liver functions is due to its inhibition of potentially damaging radicals in the liver.  It is far more effective than vitamin E and works by increasing glutathione (GSH) in the liver - actually by 35% in healthy individuals and has been used by many to overcome the toxic effects of today's environment.  Its wide use in Europe as a medications points to very low toxicity.  When studied in rats, mice, rabbits and dogs, high doses were given for short periods with no toxic effects.  Since it increases bile flow, it may produce a looser stool.   Ingestion of high fiver compounds such as guar gum, pectin, psyllium, oat bran, etc. may be utilized to prevent mucosal irritation when ingesting silymarin.

ŠJamie Longstreet 1996-2004