Milk Thistle Oil and Its Beneficial Effects on the Liver and Hepatic Diseases

Abstract

The plant Silybum marianum, commonly known as milk thistle, has been recognized for its natural medicinal properties since ancient times in the Mediterranean region and continues to be used in both traditional and modern medicine. This letter highlights the effects of milk thistle oil and its role in liver protection. The active compound, silymarin, is noted for its strong antioxidant properties, which help protect liver cells from oxidative damage by inhibiting lipid peroxidation and reducing free radicals. Additionally, silymarin aids liver health by reducing inflammation and enhancing protein synthesis. Evidence suggests that milk thistle oil can lower liver enzymes in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and improve clinical symptoms of conditions such as hepatitis C and liver cirrhosis. Thus, milk thistle oil, with its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, can be an effective adjunct treatment for preventing and managing liver diseases. However, further research is needed to better understand the mechanisms of action and clinical applications of this plant.

Keywords: Medicinal plant, Milk thistle, Essential oil, Liver diseases, Treatment