Does the Common Thistle Contain Silybum Marianum?

Silybum vs. Silymarin

• The name of milk thistle's active compound is a shortened form of the plant's botanical name, but they are not interchangeable. Common milk thistle is known as Silybum marianum. Its seeds contain a number of flavonoids collectively known as silymarin. The flavonoids in silymarin are silicristin, silibinin and silidian.

Milk Thistle Uses

• The use of milk thistle is most closely related to herbal relief for liver disease. Milk thistle is found at health food stores in capsule or liquid tincture form. Some herbalists recommend it as a liver detoxification tool for illness related to alcoholism or alcohol poisoning, mushroom poisoning and viral hepatitis. Its flavonoids also may provide antioxidant protection against some forms of cancer, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC).

Considerations

• The Mediterranean-based plant is so easy to grow that it is considered a weed in many regions. However, using it for medical use is best left to commercial producers. The silymarin content varies from plant to plant, and the amount of milk thistle you take should be standardized to contain 70 to 80 percent silymarin, according to UMMC. While milk thistle has few reported side effects, it's important to consult a doctor before taking it, especially because more aggressive medical intervention may be needed for serious liver disease.