Evidence supporting the use of: Thistle
For the health condition: Cirrhosis of the Liver

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Synopsis: The use of thistle, specifically milk thistle (Silybum marianum), for cirrhosis of the liver is primarily supported by scientific interest, although robust evidence is limited. Milk thistle has a long history of traditional use for various liver ailments, but modern scientific studies have focused on its active compound, silymarin, which is believed to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antifibrotic properties. Several small randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have investigated milk thistle's efficacy in treating liver diseases, including cirrhosis. Some evidence suggests that silymarin may reduce liver-related mortality and improve liver function tests in patients with cirrhosis, particularly those with alcoholic or toxin-induced liver damage. However, results across studies are inconsistent, with many trials suffering from methodological limitations, small sample sizes, and short durations. Major medical guidelines generally acknowledge milk thistle as safe but do not recommend it as a standard treatment due to insufficient high-quality evidence. The overall benefit for cirrhosis remains unproven, and further rigorous studies are needed. In summary, while there is a scientific basis and some preliminary evidence for milk thistle’s use in cirrhosis, the clinical effectiveness is not well established, justifying a modest evidence rating of 2 out of 5.

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Products containing Thistle

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