Flavonolignans, particularly those found in Silybum marianum (milk thistle), such as silymarin and its component silibinin, have been studied for their hepatoprotective effects, including in the context of hepatitis. The scientific interest arises from in vitro and animal studies demonstrating antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antifibrotic properties, as well as the ability to stabilize hepatocyte membranes and stimulate protein synthesis in liver cells. Several clinical trials and meta-analyses have explored silymarin’s efficacy in hepatitis, both viral (including hepatitis B and C) and non-viral.

Some clinical studies suggest silymarin supplementation may reduce liver enzyme levels (ALT, AST) in patients with chronic hepatitis, indicating reduced liver inflammation or injury. However, the evidence regarding its effects on viral load, fibrosis progression, or long-term clinical outcomes (such as cirrhosis or survival) is inconsistent and often limited by small sample sizes, heterogeneity in study design, and variations in dosage and formulation.

Major medical reviews (e.g., Cochrane, 2007; LiverTox, 2023) conclude that while milk thistle flavonolignans are generally safe and widely used as complementary therapy, robust evidence for their efficacy in treating hepatitis is moderate at best. Thus, the use of flavonolignans for hepatitis is scientifically explored and somewhat validated for supportive care, but not as a primary treatment.