Milk Thistle By Nature's Way 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).

Blessed thistle (Cnicus benedictus) is an herb with historical uses in traditional medicine and dietary supplements. It is recognized for its distinctive appearance, featuring spiny leaves and yellow flowers. In traditional herbal practices, blessed thistle has been employed for digestive support and as a tonic. Within dietary supplements, blessed thistle may be included for its potential health benefits, such as supporting digestion and promoting overall wellness.