TREATMENT DATABASE

Milk thistle (Silybum marianum), also referred to as silymarin, appears to have a remarkable effect on the liver. There is a great deal of research showing that active ingredient in silymarin, silybin, stimulates liver cells to regenerate and is effective in treating jaundice, hepatitis C, and cirrhosis. Silymarin increases the amount of liver glutathione, a tripeptide that activates liver enzymes. As a consequence, milk thistle helps protect the liver from toxins, including poisonous mushrooms, and various petrochemicals. In addition, silymarin has powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer and cardioprotective properties. It also helps synthesize superoxide dismutase (SOD), an enzyme that increases mitochondrial function and can prevent oxidative stress both within and outside cell walls.

USES IN ME/CFS: Dr. Cheney proposed that many people with ME/CFS have reduced liver function, and even subclinical hepatitis. For ME/CFS patients with mild liver dysfunction, milk thistle may provide some relief.

Treatment rating for Milk Thistle