Common names for milk thistle are holy thistle, lady's thistle, marian thistle, Mary thistle, St. Mary thistle, and silybum. They are not subject to the same scrutiny and regulations as prescription medicines. Using milk thistle for any of the above purposes should be approved by your doctor first. Milk thistle can be taken as a tablet or liquid extract, or by eating the seed. Follow the directions printed on the product label or given by your doctor.
Few people have side effects.
Some natural remedies have the same effects as prescription medicines. This means there is a danger of being overmedicated. If you have any unusual effects while taking any natural remedy, get advice from a doctor right away. Natural remedies and prescription medicines may interact. Lack of standardization may result in products with different strengths and effects.