Silybum marianum (milk thistle) has a long history of traditional use for liver ailments, including hepatitis. The plant’s active compounds, collectively known as silymarin, have been studied for their hepatoprotective properties. Silymarin is believed to exert antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antifibrotic effects, and may influence liver cell regeneration. Several in vitro and animal studies suggest silymarin can protect liver cells from toxins and oxidative damage.

Clinical studies in humans, however, have yielded mixed results. Some small randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses indicate that silymarin may modestly improve liver function tests (such as ALT and AST) in patients with hepatitis (both viral and non-viral). However, these effects are generally modest, and evidence for meaningful clinical benefits (such as improved symptoms, reduced progression to cirrhosis, or better survival) is limited. A 2020 Cochrane review found insufficient high-quality evidence to support or refute the use of milk thistle for chronic liver diseases, including hepatitis.

In summary, while there is a traditional basis for the use of Silybum in hepatitis and some scientific rationale and preliminary clinical data, the overall quality and consistency of evidence is low to moderate. Therefore, its use is supported by a combination of tradition and limited scientific validation, with a weak level of evidence.