silybum marianum extract

**Silybum marianum extract** refers to extracts derived from the seeds and/or fruits of the Silybum marianum plant (milk thistle). The principal active constituent is **silymarin**, a complex of flavonolignans primarily including silybin (silibinin), silydianin, silychristin, isosilybin, and their associated isomers. Silymarin exhibits **antioxidant**, **anti-inflammatory**, **immunomodulatory**, **antifibrotic**, and **antiproliferative** effects. Its hepatoprotective activity is attributed to free radical scavenging, increasing glutathione content, inhibiting lipid peroxidation, stabilizing cell membranes, and modulating nuclear receptors and cell transporters. Silymarin is known to modulate cytokine signaling (such as TNF-α, IL-2, IL-4, IFN-γ), inhibit apoptosis, and upregulate ribosomal protein synthesis via stimulation of RNA polymerase I. Therapeutic applications primarily include **supportive management of liver disorders** (e.g., cirrhosis, hepatitis, toxin/drug-induced hepatotoxicity), glycemic control in type 2 diabetes, and adjunctive use in mushroom poisoning. The product is considered safe at physiological doses, with rare side effects predominantly gastrointestinal[1][2][3].

Brand names

LivergolSilipideLegalon

Other names

milk thistle extractmilk thistlesilymarin extractsilybum marianum