Milk Thistle
Silybum marianum
T Traditional useMilk thistle fruit is traditionally used to support liver function, after a doctor has ruled out serious disease, and for indigestion.
Image: Herbadex Botanik Stüdyosu · Özel Üretim
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At a glance
The EMA classes milk thistle fruit (seed) as a traditional herbal medicine for digestive complaints, feelings of fullness, indigestion and to support liver function. This applies only after a doctor has ruled out serious illness. It is not recommended under 18.
Updated: October 15, 2026
✓ This herb record is backed by official European Medicines Agency (EMA HMPC) herbal monographs.
What is it used for?
T Traditional use
Traditional use: Based on at least 30 years of documented traditional use rather than clinical trials.
How do we rate evidence levels? →Traditionally used to support liver function after serious conditions have been excluded by a doctor. [1]
T Traditional use
Traditional use: Based on at least 30 years of documented traditional use rather than clinical trials.
How do we rate evidence levels? →Traditionally used for digestive complaints such as fullness and indigestion. [1]
How is it used?
Tea
Pour 100 ml of boiling water over 3–5 g of crushed seed; drink before meals.
Amount: 2–3 times daily
[1]Safety & interactions
Minimum age: 18 years
- See a doctor at once if your skin or eyes turn yellow or the colour of urine or stool changes.
- If you suspect liver disease, see a doctor first; this product does not replace diagnosis or treatment.
- Do not use if you are allergic to the daisy family (Asteraceae).
- Not recommended under 18, in pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Drug interactions
No recorded interactions
Side effects
- Mild stomach symptoms such as dry mouth, nausea, upset stomach or diarrhoea
- Headache
- Allergic reactions such as rash or itching
⚕ When to see a doctor
- If high fever, shortness of breath or purulent/bloody phlegm develops
- If symptoms do not improve within 1–2 weeks or worsen
- If severe abdominal pain, jaundice, rash or allergic reaction occurs
Did you know?
Milk thistle tea is made from crushed seeds and drunk before meals. [1]
Frequently asked questions
Is milk thistle good for the liver?
The EMA accepts its traditional use to support liver function after a doctor has ruled out serious disease. It does not replace treatment of liver disease.
How do I make milk thistle tea?
Pour 100 ml of boiling water over 3–5 g of crushed seed and drink before meals, 2–3 times a day.
Is it the same as other thistles?
Several spiny plants are called thistle. The assessment covers the fruit of Silybum marianum only.
When should I see a doctor straight away?
If your skin or eyes turn yellow or the colour of your urine or stool changes.
Sources
Cite This Page
Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum). Herbadex — Doğal Şifa Rehberi (2026). https://herbadex.com/en/herb/milk-thistle/
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