Silybum marianum L. Gaertner.: A Review of Its Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry and Pharmacology

Year 2025, Volume: 39 Issue: 2, 487 - 493, 27.08.2025

İrem Ayran Çolak , Sadiye Ayşe Çelik

https://doi.org/10.15316/selcukjafsci.1477328

Abstract

Silybum marianum L. Gaert. (milk thistle), Asteraceae family, is a plant that has adapted to diverse soil and environmental conditions across all continents. Originally grown in Southern Europe and Asia, it is now found worldwide. Milk thistle has been used for medicinal purposes for over 2000 years, primarily for treating liver disease such as cirrhosis and hepatitis, as well as protecting the liver from toxic substances. The therapeutic effects of milk thistle are attributed to the flavonoid complex silymarin, which is most abundant in the ripe seeds (achenes) of the plant. Pharmacological studies have shown that this plant has antioxidant, antiinflammatory, antitumor, hepatoprotective and liver regenerative effects effects. The all parts of the plant is also used medicinally. In addition, Milk thistle has important uses, including food industry as a supplement, food use as a fresh or fried vegetables, livestock feeding, cosmetic industry,bioenery production, biocidal activity and phytoremediation.

Keywords

Milk thistle , Silybum marianum L. Gaert. , silymarin , traditional medicine use , chemical composition

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