Published On By Rachel Nall

Milk thistle is known for supporting your health and well-being. It may help keep important body functions working well and promote overall wellness. If you’re already taking supplements, you probably know how easy it is for your routine to get complicated with so many different products.

Milk thistle is a versatile option that could simplify your routine while offering a variety of benefits. You may want to try milk thistle if you’re looking for a natural way to support your liver or digestion.

In this guide, you’ll find out if milk thistle actually works as the research suggests, and you’ll also learn about the 7 best milk thistle supplements available. This will help you make an informed decision that suits your health needs.

7 Best Milk Thistle Supplements

  1. NOW Foods Milk Thistle Extract Supplement

    NOW Foods Milk Thistle Extract Supplement

    NOW Foods Milk Thistle Extract Supplement may support your liver health and detoxification. It contains milk thistle extract, which is rich in silymarin, the active ingredient known for its potential liver-protective properties. Each capsule provides 300 mg of milk thistle extract, which is double the strength of their regular formula. It also includes dandelion root and artichoke, both of which could help support liver function and detoxify the body. This combination may promote healthy liver function by protecting liver cells from damage induced by toxins and oxidative stress. NOW Foods Milk Thistle Extract Supplement is said to be vegan, non-GMO, kosher, and made in a GMP-certified facility, which could ensure high-quality standards.

    Pros

    • It may help protect the liver and support liver health.
    • 300 mg of milk thistle per capsule offers potentially stronger support.
    • Dandelion root and artichoke could aid in detoxification and liver function.
    • Made with plant-based ingredients and free from GMOs.
    • Kosher and GMP certified.

    Cons

    • Intended for adults only.
    • Some might experience mild digestive upset or allergic reactions.
  2. Life Extension Advanced Milk Thistle Supplement

    Life Extension Advanced Milk Thistle Supplement
    Advanced Milk Thistle by Life Extension contains silymarin and silybin, which could help protect liver cells from damage triggered by toxins and oxidative stress. This product also contains phospholipids, which may enhance the absorption of the active compounds, making the supplement more effective. It might promote healthy liver function, aid in detoxification, and support liver cell regeneration. The maker’s recommended dosage is two softgels daily, which could be taken in divided doses. Research shows that a silymarin-phospholipid complex can produce plasma levels of silybin. This means you’re likely getting more beneficial components per dose. While Life Extension may offer slightly lower quantities of silymarin compared to competitors like NOW Foods or HUM Nutrition, the strategic use of phospholipids means you’re not sacrificing effectiveness.

    Pros

    • Helps protect liver health with key ingredients like silymarin and silybin.
    • The ingredients are absorbed better because of phospholipids.
    • It may help the liver get rid of toxins.
    • It may help the liver make new, healthy cells
    • Gluten-free and non-GMO

    Cons

    • Contains soy, so it may not be good for people allergic to soy
    • Some people may feel mild stomach discomfort or allergic reactions.
    • It could cost more than other milk thistle products
  3. HUM Nutrition Wing Man Milk Thistle Supplement

    HUM Nutrition Wing Man Milk Thistle Supplement
    Wing Man Milk Thistle by HUM Nutrition comes with 600 mg of silymarin compound known for its liver-protective properties. While silymarin may help detoxify and regenerate the liver, its bioavailability might not meet some clinical dosage recommendations due to natural challenges in absorption. Along with milk thistle, Wing Man also has artichoke leaf, which could stimulate bile production to support liver function, and dandelion leaf, which may assist in detoxification. Taking two capsules with food each day could help flush toxins from your liver and enhance its overall function.HUM Nutrition places a strong emphasis on safety, with their supplements being manufactured in GMP-compliant facilities. All their products are said to be third-party tested, and they are Clean Label Project-certified, which could reflect their commitment to transparency in labeling. While the 600 mg dose per day could be suitable, you may want to consider your specific health goals and whether you might need a higher dose based on clinical studies.

    Pros

    • Contains milk thistle, artichoke leaf, and dandelion leaf to help detox and support liver health.
    • The capsules are small (seven-eighths of an inch), making them easier to swallow for those who have trouble with large pills.
    • No artificial additives, preservatives, colors, or sweeteners. The ingredients are clinically tested.
    • Produced in facilities that follow strict safety standards, ensuring the product is pure and safe.
    • Tested by outside labs and certified for quality, so you can trust the product.

    Cons

    • The body may not fully absorb the silymarin, which could limit its effectiveness.
    • The 600 mg dose might not be enough for people needing higher amounts based on medical studies.
    • It might take a few weeks to see noticeable effects, and results can vary for different people.
  4. GNC Herbal Plus Milk Thistle Supplement

    GNC Herbal Plus Milk Thistle Supplement
    GNC Herbal Plus Milk Thistle may help support your liver health through its 1300mg of milk thistle seed extract with 650mg of silymarin. It might help protect your liver from environmental damage, assist with detoxification, and promote your liver function. GNC claims that its product is of high quality, being vegetarian, gluten-free, and free from preservatives, artificial colors, and flavors.

    Pros

    • This may help protect your liver, assist with detox, and keep your liver working well.
    • Contains 1300mg of milk thistle, with 650mg of the active ingredient silymarin.
    • Only one caplet per day is needed, which is simple to use.
    • It’s vegetarian, gluten-free, and has no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.

    Cons

    • 1300mg per serving might be too much for some people.
    • At $49.99 for 120 caplets, it could be more expensive than other milk thistle products.
    • People with allergies or sensitivities should check with a doctor first.
    • How well it works can be different for each person.
  5. Gaia Herbs Milk Thistle Supplement

    Gaia Herbs Milk Thistle Supplement
    Gaia Herbs Milk Thistle could enhance your liver function and support its natural detoxification function. It protects your liver from oxidative damage, aid in liver cell regeneration, and boosts your body’s natural detox processes. Besides promoting liver health, this supplement also aids in supporting a healthy digestive system, contributing to your overall wellness. Gaia Herbs ensures that the product is vegan, USDA organic, and free from gluten, soy, and dairy, making it accessible for various dietary needs.

    Pros

    • Helps protect and support liver health.
    • Aids in detoxifying the body by helping the liver remove toxins.
    • Supports healthy digestion by improving liver function.
    • Organic, vegan, non-GMO, gluten-free, soy-free, and dairy-free.
    • Helps with long-term liver and digestive health.
    • Tested for purity, free of harmful chemicals.

    Cons

    • Not safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
    • It may cause stomach upset or allergies.
    • You should check with a doctor if you have a medical condition or take medications.
    • Needs to be taken regularly to see full benefits.
    • Not good for people allergic to plants like ragweed.
  6. Zazzee USDA Organic Milk Thistle Supplement

    Zazzee USDA Organic Milk Thistle Supplement
    Zazzee Naturals Organic Milk Thistle may offer 7500 mg of milk thistle per capsule, combined with a concentrated 30:1 extract, which could make it 30 times stronger than standard Milk Thistle products. Each capsule might contain 200 mg of silymarin flavonoids, the active ingredient known for its liver-protecting and antioxidant benefits. It is USDA Certified Organic, vegan, gluten-free, and made without harmful additives or chemicals. Manufactured in an FDA-certified facility in the USA, it could provide a natural and safe option for detoxifying and supporting liver health.

    Pros

    • 7500 mg per capsule, strong for liver support.
    • It comes with a 30:1 concentrated extract.
    • 200 mg of silymarin in each capsule, which helps protect the liver.
    • Made from natural, non-GMO ingredients without chemicals.
    • Works for people with different dietary needs.
    • Produced in a safe, FDA-certified facility.

    Cons

    • It could be too strong for some people.
    • At $25.97 per bottle, it might feel expensive, but it lasts a long time.
  7. OmniBiotics Milk Thistle Capsules

    OmniBiotics Milk Thistle Capsules
    OmniBiotics Organic Milk Thistle 4X is a potent liver support supplement that contains 1500 mg of organic milk thistle extract per capsule. It is made using a superior extraction method to ensure maximum potency and absorption. This supplement is certified organic, non-GMO, vegan, and free from gluten, chemicals, and additives, ensuring a natural and pure product. The product is manufactured in the USA in an FDA-registered, cGMP-certified facility and comes with a 365-day satisfaction guarantee.

    Pros

    • Each capsule has 1500 mg of milk thistle, 50% more than the typical 1000 mg.
    • Made with 100% organic ingredients, certified by CCOF.
    • No animal products or genetically modified ingredients.
    • Free from gluten, chemicals, or artificial colors.
    • The extraction process helps your body absorb it better.
    • Offers a 365-day money-back guarantee.

    Cons

    • People with certain allergies or health problems should check with a doctor first.
    • This product might cost more than other milk thistle supplements.
    • Some people might find the capsules too big or hard to swallow.

What is Milk Thistle Supplement?

Extracted from seeds of the milk thistle plant or silybum marianum, these natural health products are celebrated for their ability to support liver function and detoxification. The key active component, silymarin, is renowned for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which might help protect liver cells from excess damage and promote their repair.

You might be particularly interested in how milk thistle supplements can aid in managing the effects of environmental toxins, alcohol, medications, and poor dietary habits. By improving the overall function of the liver, silymarin contributes to better digestion and supports metabolic processes, making it a versatile addition to your wellness routine.

Benefits of Milk Thistle Supplement

  1. It Could Help Regulate Blood Sugar Levels

    Milk thistle may help improve your insulin sensitivity and reduce glucose production in your liver, which could be beneficial if you have type 2 diabetes or are at risk of developing it. When your body becomes less responsive to insulin, it might cause higher blood sugar levels. By improving insulin sensitivity, milk thistle may help your cells absorb glucose more effectively, lowering your blood sugar. It may reduce excessive glucose production in your liver, further supporting better blood sugar regulation.

  2. It Might Provide Antioxidant Benefits

    The silymarin in milk thistle acts as a powerful antioxidant in your body that could neutralize free radicals which are known as unstable compounds that can harm your cells and tissues. Free radicals are produced naturally in your body, but things like pollution, UV rays, and stress can increase their levels. When free radicals excessively build up, they can cause oxidative stress, which causes aging and the development of heart disease and neurodegenerative disorders. Milk thistle supplements may help reduce oxidative damage by scavenging these free radicals, slowing down the aging process and lowering your risk of chronic diseases.

  3. It May Support Brain Health

    Milk thistle supplements containing silymarin as the active compound may be able to cross the blood-brain barrier and provide protection to your brain. Once it reaches your brain, silymarin could offer neuroprotective effects by decreasing excessive oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which can cause cognitive decline. By tackling these issues, milk thistle supplements might help you maintain your cognitive function over time.

  4. It Might Have Anti-Inflammatory Effects

    Milk thistle supplements may help reduce inflammation in your body by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are molecules that trigger inflammation. By blocking these inflammatory signals, silymarin (the active compound in milk thistle) could benefit you if you have conditions like arthritis or skin irritations such as acne or eczema. Reducing inflammation may help alleviate pain, redness, and swelling while also promoting healing in affected areas.

  5. It May Contribute to Cholesterol Management

    Taking Milk thistle supplements might help improve your cholesterol levels by lowering LDL and increasing HDL. They may work by inhibiting the production of cholesterol in your liver while also supporting the breakdown of fats. This might reduce the amount of harmful cholesterol in your bloodstream and encourage the production of good cholesterol. They could promote a healthier lipid profile, which plays a critical part in maintaining cardiovascular health and decreasing heart disease risk and other related conditions.

  6. It Could Support Digestive Health

    Milk thistle supplements could help enhance bile production, which plays an important part in fat digestion and absorption. Bile is made by your liver and stored in gallbladder, and it helps break down fats in the digestive system. By stimulating bile flow, milk thistle supplements might support your digestive process, making it easier for your body to absorb nutrients from fatty foods. This could help address digestive issues, as it may help improve overall digestion and support the healthy functioning of your gallbladder.

  7. It May Support Liver Health and Detoxification

    Milk thistle may help protect liver cells by neutralizing free radicals. It might also promote liver regeneration, encouraging new liver cell growth and replacing damaged ones. This can assist in detoxification, allowing your liver to process better and eliminate toxins from your body. It may also help the liver recover from damage caused by alcohol, medications, or other toxins, supporting its ability to function properly and maintain good health.

Are Milk Thistle Supplements safe?

Generally, milk thistle supplements are considered safe for most people when taken as directed by the makers. With a long history of use in herbal medicine, it is well-tolerated, and serious side effects are rare. However, it’s still important to stay informed about potential side effects and interactions, as well as the right dosage.

  1. Common Side Effects

    Milk thistle is usually well-tolerated, but some people may experience gastrointestinal upset, diarrhea, or nausea when taking the supplement. In rare cases, you might have an allergic breakout, especially if you’re allergic to plants in the same family as milk thistle, such as ragweed, daisies, or marigolds. If you experience any unusual symptoms, it’s a good idea to stop using the milk thistle supplement and consult your healthcare provider.

  2. It Might Interact With Medications

    Milk thistle might interact with certain medications, especially those metabolized by the liver. It may affect how your body processes drugs like statins (cholesterol-lowering drugs), anticoagulants (blood thinners), or certain antidepressants. To avoid unwanted interactions, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider before starting milk thistle if you are currently taking prescription medications. This ensures that the supplement won’t interfere with your treatment plan.

  3. Not An Alternative for Severe Liver Conditions

    Although milk thistle is commonly used to support liver health, it is not intended to replace medical treatment for serious liver conditions, such as cirrhosis or hepatitis. If you have a liver condition or are undergoing treatment, it’s crucial to consult your doctor before starting a milk thistle supplement. They can guide you on whether it’s appropriate for your specific health situation and ensure it won’t interfere with other treatments.

  4. Watch Out For Your Dosage

    To avoid any adverse effects, it’s safe to follow the maker’s recommended dosage on the supplement label or as advised by your doctor. Taking too much milk thistle or using it improperly could lead to unwanted side effects. By sticking to the suggested dosage, you can safely enjoy the potential benefits of the supplement while minimizing any risks. Silymarin in milk thistle is safe at therapeutic doses and is generally well-tolerated, even at 700 mg thrice a day for 24 weeks, although you might get minor nausea or diarrhea.

How to Select The Best Milk Thistle Supplements?

  1. High-Quality Ingredients

    When picking a milk thistle supplement, choose products made with organic or non-GMO ingredients to avoid harmful chemicals like pesticides, herbicides, and genetically modified organisms. Organic milk thistle is grown in a clean, chemical-free environment, which helps improve the quality and effectiveness of the supplement. Look for labels like “Certified Organic” or “Non-GMO Project Verified” to make sure the product meets your health standards and is absorbed better by your body. Organic milk thistle ensures that the plant is grown in a clean environment, free from contaminants that could affect the quality of the supplement. High-quality ingredients may help with better absorption and overall effectiveness. You should always check for certifications such as “Certified Organic” or “Non-GMO Project Verified” to ensure the milk thistle supplement matches your health and wellness standards.

  2. Third-Party Testing

    Third-party testing is important for ensuring that a milk thistle supplement is both effective and safe. Independent labs do this testing to verify that the product contains the appropriate amount of active ingredients, like silymarin, as listed on the label. It also checks for harmful contaminants, such as heavy metals, pesticides, or harmful microorganisms, that could affect the quality or safety of the supplement. Products tested by independent labs are more trustworthy because the testing is unbiased. When choosing a milk thistle supplement, look for third-party certifications or seals on the packaging, as these indicate the product has been properly tested for safety, potency, and quality.

  3. Reputable Brand

    When selecting a milk thistle supplement, it’s important to choose such a brand that is known for producing high-quality products. Trusted brands typically follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), which ensures that each batch of the supplement is consistently produced and undergoes quality control. These brands are also transparent about where they source their ingredients and provide clear, detailed labeling on their products. To further assess the brand’s reliability, check customer reviews to see how others have experienced the product and ensure the company offers responsive customer support. Certifications like NSF or USP can also help confirm that the brand is trustworthy and the product meets certain safety and quality standards.

  4. Additional Ingredients

    Some milk thistle supplements include additional ingredients like dandelion root, artichoke extract, or turmeric to enhance liver support and overall health. While these can provide added benefits, it’s important to ensure they are high-quality and dosed appropriately.

    Be cautious of products with unnecessary fillers, artificial additives, or allergens, especially if you have specific dietary restrictions or sensitivities. A clean ingredient list ensures you’re only consuming what’s necessary for your health goals.

  5. Dosage and Form

    The dosage of milk thistle supplements is crucial for achieving the desired health benefits. Most high-quality supplements provide 250–450 mg of milk thistle extract per serving, which is within the range typically used in research studies.

    It’s also important to check the silymarin content, as this directly impacts the supplement’s potency. Whether you choose capsules, tablets, or liquid extracts, ensure the product offers a dose suitable for your health needs, and consult a health expert if you’re unsure about the right amount for your situation.

  6. Transparency

    Look for milk thistle products that clearly list all ingredients, their exact amounts, and the standardization levels of silymarin, the active compound. Trusted brands often provide detailed sourcing information and third-party testing results, ensuring the product’s quality and safety. Avoid milk thistle supplements with vague labels or proprietary blends, as these may not disclose the proper ingredient quantities, potentially lacking the potency or purity necessary for effective results.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can Milk Thistle Interact With Prescription Medications?
    Milk thistle can interact with prescription medications, particularly those metabolized by the liver. It’s essential to discuss with the doctor before starting its supplementation to avoid potential adverse effects and guarantee safe usage.
  2. Are There Any Diet Restrictions While Taking Milk Thistle?
    While taking milk thistle, there aren’t strict dietary restrictions. However, it’s wise to avoid excessive alcohol and known allergens.
  3. Is Milk Thistle Effective for Alcohol-Related Liver Damage?
    Milk thistle silymarin might help in reducing alcohol-related liver damage by protecting liver cells and enhancing detoxification. While it’s not a cure, adding it to a healthy lifestyle could support your liver health effectively.

Conclusion

Milk thistle supplements may be a suitable addition to your routine, particularly for supporting liver health. Many reputable brands like WOW Foods, Gaia, and GNC offer standardized silymarin extracts, providing a variety of options to consider. These supplements may support liver function and offer antioxidant benefits, but they are not a substitute for a balanced diet or medical treatments. Before adding any new supplement, it is recommended to consult with your doctor. This ensures the milk thistle supplement is appropriate for your needs and will not interfere with any existing medications or treatments.

Disclaimer
  • This review’s general information is not intended to be taken as medical advice and should not be used as a replacement for speaking with a doctor.
  • Never rely on anything you read or accessed through this review without consulting a doctor, and never put off getting medical help.
  • Individual results may differ because they are subjective.
  • Before using any product, please speak with your doctor if you have any underlying health issues or are using any prescription medications.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *