Warning: This information is for educational research only and should not be construed as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before using any herbal products or making health-related decisions.

[Herb Name]

Q: What is the scientific name of Milk Thistle?

The scientific name of Milk Thistle is Silybum marianum.

[Scientific Name]

Key Facts

Scientific Name: Silybum marianum
Plant Family: Asteraceae (Daisy family)
Origin: Native to the Mediterranean region
Primary Use: Liver Support

Overview

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Additional information with multiple citations can reference several sources. ² ³

Traditional Uses

Example paragraph about traditional uses of the herb. ⁴

Active Compounds

Information about the chemical compounds found in this herb. ⁵

Potential Benefits

Research-backed information about potential benefits. ⁶

Additional benefit information with proper citation. ⁷

Safety & Side Effects

Important safety information about potential side effects and interactions. ⁸

Information about contraindications and warnings. ⁹

When to See a Doctor

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

Severe allergic reactions (difficulty breathing, swelling of face or throat, severe rash)
Chest pain or irregular heartbeat
Severe digestive issues (persistent vomiting, bloody stools)
Severe headache or dizziness
Any symptoms that worsen or do not improve

Always consult a healthcare professional before using herbal supplements if you:

Are pregnant, nursing, or planning to become pregnant
Are taking prescription medications
Have a chronic health condition
Are scheduled for surgery
Are giving herbs to children

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Did You Know?

Milk thistle's active compound, silymarin, is so effective at protecting liver cells that it is used in emergency rooms across Europe as the primary treatment for death cap mushroom poisoning — one of the most lethal toxins known. It works by blocking toxin uptake into liver cells and stimulating protein synthesis for cell repair.

Available as: 💊 Capsule 🧪 Tincture 🍵 Tea 🧴 Powder

Pairs Well With

🌿 Dandelion 🌿 Turmeric 🌿 Ginger

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Milk Thistle used for?

Strong evidence for liver protection against toxins including Amanita mushroom poisoning, alcohol, and drug-induced liver injury. May improve liver function in hepatitis and cirrhosis. Antioxidant properties protect against oxidative stress.

Is Milk Thistle safe?

Generally very safe and well-tolerated. May cause mild laxative effect or gastrointestinal upset. Rare allergic reactions in people sensitive to Asteraceae plants. May interact with certain medications metabolized by CYP450 enzymes. Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

What are the active compounds in Milk Thistle?

Silymarin is a complex of flavonolignans (silybin, silydianin, silychristin), with silybin being the most biologically active. Silymarin acts as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and promotes liver cell regeneration.

What is the scientific name of Milk Thistle?

The scientific name of Milk Thistle is Silybum marianum.

What are the traditional uses of Milk Thistle?

Used in European herbal medicine for over 2,000 years for liver and gallbladder conditions. Widely used in European phytotherapy for hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver toxicity.

When should I see a doctor when using Milk Thistle?

Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using Milk Thistle or any herbal supplement, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking prescription medications, have a chronic health condition, or are scheduled for surgery. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe allergic reactions, chest pain, irregular heartbeat, severe digestive issues, or any symptoms that worsen or do not improve.

References

Author A., Author B. (Year). "Title of the Study or Article." Journal Name, Volume(Issue), Pages. DOI or URL.
Author C., et al. (Year). "Another Study Title." Journal Name, Volume(Issue), Pages. DOI or URL.
Author D. (Year). "Third Reference Title." Publication Name. URL.
Author E., Author F. (Year). "Historical Reference Title." Book or Journal Name, Publisher, Pages.
Author G., et al. (Year). "Chemical Analysis Study Title." Chemistry Journal, Volume(Issue), Pages. DOI.
Author H., Author I. (Year). "Clinical Trial Title." Medical Journal, Volume(Issue), Pages. DOI.
Author J., et al. (Year). "Additional Research Title." Research Journal, Volume(Issue), Pages. DOI.
Author K., Author L. (Year). "Safety Profile Study." Toxicology Journal, Volume(Issue), Pages. DOI.
Author M., et al. (Year). "Contraindications and Warnings." Medical Journal, Volume(Issue), Pages. DOI.