Silymarin
Silymarin is a mixture of plant compounds extracted from the seeds of milk thistle, Silybum marianum, and is mostly studied for liver conditions.
Does it help with fatty liver?
Cochrane’s 2025 review included 17 studies and 2,069 adults with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease. Some liver enzyme levels may improve, with very uncertain evidence. No trial reported overall mortality or health-related quality of life. 1
Possible blood-test improvements do not establish better long-term health. 1
What about inflammation?
A 2024 analysis of 15 randomized trials found lower CRP and IL-6, inflammatory markers, and lower MDA, an oxidative-stress marker. IL-10, total antioxidant capacity, and glutathione did not change significantly. The authors highlighted patients with diabetes and thalassemia. 2
The findings concern selected laboratory markers, not established disease prevention. 2
Effects by health goal
Open an effect to see the studies behind its rating. Bars show the size of the effect; the letter grades the evidence.
Immune Support1 effect
Longevity1 effect
Organ Function2 effects
Other effects1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
All studies
9 publications are linked to Silymarin, newest first.