Silybin (also known as silibinin) is the main active component of silymarin, an extract from the seeds of the Silybum marianum plant, commonly known as milk thistle. The use of milk thistle for liver disorders, including hepatitis, has a long history in traditional medicine; however, its modern application is increasingly supported by scientific inquiry. Silybin exhibits antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antifibrotic properties, which are believed to protect liver cells from damage caused by toxins, oxidative stress, and inflammation—mechanisms relevant to hepatitis (both viral and non-viral forms).

Several in vitro and animal studies have demonstrated that silybin can protect hepatocytes, suppress viral replication (notably hepatitis C virus), and reduce liver inflammation. Clinical studies in humans, however, show mixed results. Some randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses report improvements in liver enzyme levels (such as ALT and AST) in patients with chronic hepatitis or cirrhosis, but robust evidence for significant clinical outcomes—such as improved survival, reduced progression to cirrhosis, or viral clearance—is lacking. The most consistent findings suggest silybin is safe and may offer mild to moderate liver-protective effects, especially as an adjunct to standard therapy.

In summary, while silybin’s use for hepatitis is rooted in both tradition and emerging scientific evidence, current data support its role as a supportive rather than primary therapy. More large-scale, high-quality clinical trials are needed to fully validate its efficacy against hepatitis.