Milk thistle, derived from the Silybum marianum plant, has a rich history as an herbal remedy, with traditional tales linking its distinctive purple flowers to a drop of the Virgin Mary’s milk. The active compounds within milk thistle, collectively known as silymarin, are concentrated in its extract, boasting antioxidant, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. While its traditional use spans treating liver disorders and promoting breast milk production to potential applications in cancer and diabetes, the scientific evidence supporting these claims is still inconclusive.
Benefits
Milk thistle is widely acknowledged for its liver-protecting effects, often used as a complementary therapy for conditions like alcoholic liver disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and hepatitis. Studies suggest improvements in liver function, hinting at its ability to reduce inflammation and damage. Moreover, the herb shows promise in neurological conditions, with its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties potentially protecting against mental decline associated with aging.
Experimental studies even hint at its role in stimulating bone mineralization, offering a potential preventive measure against osteoporosis. Additionally, milk thistle’s antioxidant effects may play a role in cancer treatment, potentially alleviating side effects and enhancing the efficacy of chemotherapy. There are also preliminary indications of its positive impact on breast milk production, acne reduction, and its potential as a complementary therapy for type 2 diabetes.
1. Zazzee
Zazzee Organic Milk Thistle is a high-grade 30:1 extract. It is certified USDA organic, gluten-free, vegan, made in America, lab tested, and non-GMO. The bottle, which has 120 capsules, costs $19.95.
One reviewer said, “Easy to swallow, color as expected, no adverse reaction, liver supps shouldn’t cause a difference (if does, you may have serious health issues). I prefer dose, BUT, this brand is made in USA, Organic, and doesn’t require a handful of capsules as a daily dose!!! That’s worth its weight in Gold. I never take the recommended dose and my first option is half daily dose. I eat food daily. You don’t need the full dose supps unless prescribed by a practitioner. Peace Be With You!”
2. Omnibiotics
Omnibiotics Milk Thistle Capsules are highly concentrated, certified organic, and lab-verified. The bottle has 120 capsules and costs $35.96.
Jerri said, “It’s difficult to find milk thistle from a trusted company. Purchasing organic herbs is so important and goes a long way to provide the security you are buying the best. Environmental toxins continue to increase and I take this regularly for liver Support. I have had no problems with liver enzyme elevations. Grateful for this product”
3. Alliwise
Alliwise Liver Health Support Liquid is made from milk thistle extract specifically for liver health. In addition to milk thistle, it also has dandelion root, artichoke leaf, and turmeric root. It is all-natural, vegan, and non-GMO. One bottle costs $17.99.
Darla said, “Great taste, I haven’t had my blood work done yet, but I do feel there is an improvement and I will know more in February.”
4. Peak Performance
Peak Performance Organic Milk Thistle Extract is vegan, zero sugar, organic, non-GMO, and gluten-free. The liquid drops are also very convenient. The 2fl oz bottle costs $17.96.
One reviewer
5. Teraputics
Teraputics Pure Life Organic Milk Thistle Capsules are vegan, soy-free, and non-GMO. They have no artificial colors, sweeteners, or flavors. For 60 capsules it costs $11.95.
Maria said, “I like that it’s easy to swallow and bad flavor. I started taking this to heal my liver. I was diagnosed with fatty liver. Since taking this my liver is almost back to normal. I get regular bloodwork done where I keep track of the results. After 5 years of straight across high-level enzyme, it’s now on a steady decline and so close to the normal range now.”
6. Pure Co
Pure Co Organic Milk Thistle Capsules are USDA organic, gluten-free, and made in the USA. This product is free from a plethora of ingredients like yeast, wheat, dairy, soy, corn, eggs, sugar, fish, nuts, and oils. A two-month supply costs $15.17.
One reviewer said, “I did purchase this product and took a chance that It would work for my wife and I. I take this product every day and my wife also takes this product. I purchased it for a fatty Liver issue and because my wife can not take just anything because it upsets the stomach. With this product, she can take the Milk Thistle and not upset her stomach. I would recommend this product now that I have tried it plus my wife and I take it every day. I would also state I did research on what can be taken over the counter that we do not need a doctor for that works the best. This product does seem to help and I am a person that will try and then trust. I will be purchasing this product again.”
7. MaryRuth’s
Milk Thistle Seed Liquid Drops by MaryRuth’s are unflavored, vegan, and gluten-free. The 1 fl oz bottle costs $18.86.
Monica Smith said, “Milk thistle is one of earth’s treasures. The benefits are AMAZING! Plus Mary Ruth knows her stuff”
8. Organic Discounters
Organic Discounters Milk Thistle Capsules are USDA organic, vegan, gluten-free, third-party lab tested, and made in the USA. For 280 capsules this product costs $27.97.
Dave and Lisa said, “We are very pleased with this product. Ordering and using products that are either non-GMO Project Verified or organic is a priority for our family, whenever possible. Focusing on non-GMO or organic certified vitamins is much more challenging than compared to grocery shopping selections. We ordered these based on price, certification, mg dosage, and quantity. This was a large quantity and we feel, thus far, it was a very good deal. Although it is too early to tell if it is helping, we feel better knowing that this milk thistle supplement is certified organic. Thank you for creating such a thoughtful and innovative vitamin supplement. Looking forward to trying more organic supplements. Milk thistle is a detoxifier and it is most beneficial when it is at least, non-GMO certified. We are happy to have closed out this year utilizing such a product in our daily lives. Numerous supplements claim to be made without GMO ingredients.
However, it is much more credible and demonstrated when companies use third-party certifications such as with this Milk Thistle. Last of all, the bottle is attractive, well sealed, and the product appeared to be typical in size for a capsule, and no problems to take daily. Best!!! Thank you thank you thank you for creating a Vegan product ( this was something which needed to be added to our original review. How could we forget?? We strive to buy products which focus on plant-based ingredients, wherever possible. Since we cannot realize the quality of life for animals unless they are pasture-raised or grass-fed, knowing it is Vegan makes us feel better. We also believe in the commitment of companies who strive toward Vegan lifestyles; that they truly create a positive energetic frequency in manifesting a better world. Thank you to the manufacturer Organic Discounters and sellers such as Zazzee Naturals!!!”
9. Nutricost
Nutricost Milk Thistle comes in capsule form. It is high potency, third-party tested, non-GMO, vegan, and gluten-free. The bottle comes with 240 capsules and costs $12.59.
James said, “I use milk thistle to help protect the organs from other supplements and age-related issues. The nice thing about Nutricost I find is that you get a lot of supplements for the money. I don’t like it when companies try the supplement extract math and say it’s 1,000 mg because it’s a 4:1 extract, but other companies like NOW a well-respected brand also sold on Amazon doesn’t do that. Comparing the two brands, NOW does offer 300mG vs 250mG, but also gives you Dandelion and artichoke. If you prefer only Milk Thistle, I would go with Nutricost, and for a mix of extra supplements, I would pick Now’s Milk Thistle version. I’ll probably switch back and forth between the two.”
10. Nature’s Answer
Nature’s Answer Milk Thistle is in liquid form. It is non-GMO, vegan, kosher, and gluten-free. The two-pack costs $25.99.
One reviewer said, “I have used this for years and this brand as a liver detox .it has always helped me! This is a reputable brand!”
While milk thistle holds promise as a herbal remedy, it is crucial to approach its benefits with cautious optimism. The existing body of evidence, while suggestive of positive outcomes, is often limited by flawed methodologies and mixed results. More rigorous research is essential to confirm the efficacy of milk thistle in treating various conditions, determine optimal dosages, and understand its mechanisms of action. As we explore the potential advantages of this herbal remedy, it is important to recognize that its full range of benefits and potential side effects remain areas for further investigation. Whether addressing liver health, neurological conditions, bone density, or supporting cancer treatments, the path forward involves a comprehensive and evidence-based exploration of milk thistle’s therapeutic potential.
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