Milk Thistle: What It Is, How to Choose a Supplement, and Where to Buy It
Milk thistle is one of the most asked-about herbs in our Winter Haven store. This guide explains what it is, what silymarin means on a label, what the research does and does not say, and how to choose a milk thistle supplement that suits you.
What is milk thistle?
Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) is a spiny-leaved plant with reddish-purple flowers, native to Europe. The part used in supplements is the seed. Milk thistle seeds contain a group of plant compounds known together as silymarin, which is the main constituent of milk thistle extract.
Why do people take milk thistle?
Milk thistle has a long history of traditional use, and today most people who choose it are looking to support normal liver function as part of a healthy lifestyle.
It is worth being clear about the evidence. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NIH), the results of studies on milk thistle for liver conditions are conflicting or too limited to draw conclusions, and there is not yet enough high-quality evidence. A supplement is not a substitute for medical care, a balanced diet or limiting alcohol.
How to read a milk thistle label
- Standardized extract. Look for the percentage of silymarin. An extract “standardized to 80% silymarin” tells you how much of the active compounds each capsule delivers, which plain ground seed powder does not.
- Amount per capsule. A 350 mg extract standardized to 80% provides 280 mg of silymarin in one capsule. A 175 mg extract provides half of that.
- Capsule type. If you follow a vegan or vegetarian diet, check that the capsule itself is plant-based.
- What is left out. Check for artificial colors, flavors and preservatives, and for common allergens such as gluten, soy and dairy.
Our milk thistle options
- Milk Thistle 350 mg – 30 Vegan Caps: our higher-potency capsule, standardized to 80% (280 mg) silymarin. One capsule provides twice the extract of our 175 mg product. 100% vegan, with no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives, and no wheat, gluten, milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, soy, shellfish or fish.
- Milk Thistle 175 mg – 50 Vegan Caps: a lower-potency capsule for those who prefer a smaller amount per serving.
- Milk Thistle Extract-Plus 175 mg – 60 Veg Caps: European milk thistle extract standardized to 80% silymarin (140 mg per capsule), with added turmeric and artichoke extracts.
- Liver Detox Complex – 60 Vegan Caps: a vegan blend with 350 mg of milk thistle seed extract per serving, plus burdock root, aloe vera, fennel seed and artichoke leaf.
Who should be careful with milk thistle?
- Allergies. Milk thistle belongs to the same plant family as ragweed, daisies, marigolds and chrysanthemums. If you are allergic to these, you may react to milk thistle.
- Diabetes. Small studies suggest milk thistle may affect blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes. If you have diabetes or take medicine for blood sugar, speak with your doctor first.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding. Little is known about safety during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Ask your healthcare provider.
- Medications. If you take prescription medicine, check with your doctor or pharmacist before adding any herbal supplement.
Milk thistle appears to be well tolerated. The most common side effects are digestive, such as bloating, nausea and gas. Always follow the directions on the product label.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between milk thistle and silymarin?
Milk thistle is the plant. Silymarin is the group of compounds extracted from its seeds. A standardized supplement tells you how much silymarin each capsule contains.
Is milk thistle vegan?
The herb is plant-based, but many capsules are made from gelatin. Our Milk Thistle 350 mg and 175 mg use 100% vegetarian capsules and are suitable for vegans.
Which strength should I choose?
The 350 mg capsule suits people who want a higher amount in a single capsule; the 175 mg capsule suits those who prefer a smaller serving. Your healthcare provider can advise what is appropriate for you, and our store team is happy to explain the labels.
Buy milk thistle in Winter Haven, Florida, or online
You can pick up milk thistle in person at our store or order online for delivery.
My Nature’s Delight
3085 Cypress Gardens Rd, Winter Haven, FL 33884
Phone: (863) 324-1778
Monday–Friday 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM · Saturday 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Sunday 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Source: National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, “Milk Thistle”.
