Milk thistle, also known as Silybum marianum, is a herbal remedy derived from the milk thistle plant that is believed to have medicinal properties. It is commonly used as a home remedy to treat liver problems, detoxify the liver and promote liver tissues regeneration. Milk thistle extract has a high amount of silymarin (between 65–80%) that has been concentrated from the milk thistle plant. Silymarin is known to have antioxidant, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.

Research has shown the active ingredient in milk thistle, silymarin, acts as an antioxidant by reducing free radical production. Scientists think this creates a detoxifying effect and improve liver function. (1)