Clinical Digestion By Natural Clinician Overview & Drug Interactions

Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) is a plant belonging to the aster family (Asteraceae). It is native to the Mediterranean region and is widely cultivated in many parts of the world. The plant is known for its milk-white veins on the leaves, which gives it its name. Milk thistle has a long history of use in traditional medicine, and is extremely popular as a dietary supplement, making it one of the most well-known plants in the world. It is purported to have liver-protectant effects and has been used to treat liver disorders such as hepatitis and cirrhosis. It has also been used to treat gallbladder problems and high cholesterol. While there are a number of compounds in milk thistle, one of the active constituents, silymarin, is thought to be responsible for many of its effects, and dietary supplements often report using a standardized amount (generally 70% to 80% silymarin in extracts).

L-glutamine is the most abundant free amino acid in the body, produced primarily in skeletal muscle and then released into circulation. It serves vital roles in various tissues, including the immune system, gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, and liver, where it supports essential functions such as maintaining intestinal integrity, immune response, and amino acid balance. Although traditionally classified as a non-essential amino acid, during periods of severe stress, glutamine becomes conditionally essential due to the body's increased demand. It acts as a critical nitrogen and carbon transporter between organs, and while the intestinal mucosa can synthesize glutamine, this production is insufficient during times of significant physiological stress. Dietary supplements generally contain L-glutamine as it is the biologically active form of the amino acid.

Fish oil is a dietary supplement derived from fatty fish like mackerel, salmon, and anchovies. It's rich in omega-3 fatty acids, specifically eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These fatty acids are crucial for various bodily functions, including brain health, heart health, and reducing inflammation. Fish oil is often consumed to support cardiovascular health, lower blood triglyceride levels, and potentially alleviate symptoms of certain inflammatory conditions. It is available in various forms, such as capsules, liquid, and as an ingredient in fortified foods.

Turmeric is a commonly used spice and a member of the ginger family (Zingiberaceae). It is native to India and other parts of South Asia and is known for its bright orange-yellow color and its warm, slightly bitter flavor. In traditional medicine, turmeric is believed to have a number of health benefits due to its high content of antioxidants and other compounds, such as curcumin. It is thought to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, and it is often used to treat a variety of conditions, including joint pain, digestive problems, skin disorders, and respiratory infections. Most dietary supplements that utilize turmeric standardize their products based on a specific amount of curcumin (curcuminoids) per dose. Additionally, turmeric supplements are often paired with black pepper extract (piperine) to improve oral absorption.

Quercetin is a type of flavonoid, which is a class of compounds found in a wide variety of plants and foods. It is purported to have a number of health benefits such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting effects. Studies suggest it may also help to reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases, such as heart disease. In addition, quercetin may have anti-allergic properties and may be helpful in the treatment of allergies and asthma. It is a popular dietary supplement worldwide and is often included in products that contain antioxidants or various vitamins/minerals. Its wide range of potential health benefits mean that it could potentiate the effects of other drugs (e.g., anti-hypertensives), which is why there are an abundant number of potential interactions listed for quercetin.