Ingredient Library

Milk Thistle

Discover why milk thistle has been valued for centuries and why it is one of the most recognised herbs for supporting normal liver health and antioxidant protection.

Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) is a flowering herb native to the Mediterranean region and has been used in traditional herbal practices for more than 2,000 years. Its distinctive purple flowers and glossy, white-veined leaves make it one of the most recognisable medicinal plants.

The seeds of milk thistle naturally contain silymarin, a complex of antioxidant plant compounds that has made the herb one of the most extensively researched botanicals. Today, milk thistle is widely included in nutritional formulations designed to support liver health, antioxidant protection and overall wellbeing.

What is Milk Thistle?

Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) is a flowering herb belonging to the daisy family. While the whole plant has been used traditionally, modern supplements are primarily produced from its seeds, which naturally contain high levels of silymarin.

Naturally Rich in Silymarin

Milk thistle seeds naturally provide silymarin, a group of flavonolignans that contribute to the herb's antioxidant properties. Silymarin has made milk thistle one of the best-known botanical ingredients for supporting liver health.

Supporting Liver Health

The liver plays a vital role in hundreds of normal metabolic processes within the body. Milk thistle has traditionally been used to support normal liver function and is now one of the most widely used botanical ingredients in liver health formulations.

Antioxidant Protection

Helps protect cells from oxidative stress caused by free radicals.

Healthy Inflammatory Response

Supports the body's normal inflammatory response.

Digestive Health

Supports healthy digestion and digestive comfort.

Hormonal Balance

Supports normal hormonal health and wellbeing.

What is milk thistle?

Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) is a flowering herb whose seeds have been used in traditional herbal practices for centuries. Today, it is widely used in food supplements designed to support liver health.

What is silymarin?

Silymarin is a naturally occurring complex of antioxidant plant compounds found in milk thistle seeds. It is the primary group of compounds that has made milk thistle one of the most researched herbal ingredients.

Why is milk thistle associated with liver health?

Milk thistle has a long history of traditional use for supporting normal liver function. Its naturally occurring silymarin content has made it one of the best-known botanical ingredients for liver health.

Why is milk thistle included in women's health supplements?

Milk thistle is often combined with complementary botanical ingredients in formulations designed to support wellbeing during different stages of a woman's life. Its antioxidant properties and traditional association with liver health make it a popular addition to comprehensive women's health formulations.

Is milk thistle related to daisies?

Yes. Milk thistle belongs to the Asteraceae family, making it closely related to daisies, sunflowers and artichokes.