Of twenty followed up for six to thirty-six months, ten were definitely improved and four had deteriorated. The results of numerous studies suggest that silymarin not only protects liver cells by preventing the actions of toxic substances but that it also stimulate protein synthesis to accelerate the regeneration and production of liver cells. This type of damage is known as lipid peroxidation. Most liver toxins produce their damaging effects by free radical mechanisms. Silymarin is not soluble in water, and is therefore ineffective when taken in the form of a tea.
Oral use requires a concentrated product.
Milk thistle is marketed in the United States as a food supplement in the form of capsules containing 200 to 250 mg. of a concentrated extract representing 160 to 200 mg. of silymarin. Though relatively free from adverse affects, those with liver problems who wish to use milk thistle should be monitored by a health care professional to determine the products effectiveness.