Milk Thistle: The Natural Supplement That Supports Liver Health

Milk thistle is a valued herbal remedy recognised for its purifying and detoxifying benefits, particularly when it comes to supporting the liver. It can be especially helpful after periods of overindulgence — those familiar moments when we rise from the table feeling heavy and uncomfortable after a rich meal or a few too many alcoholic drinks. And at this busy time of year, when stress inevitably takes its toll on our digestion, a little extra support can make all the difference.

This is where milk thistle truly shines. Known scientifically as Silybum marianum, this medicinal plant has long been used to promote healthy liver function and improve digestion. Its name carries a touch of legend: the “marianum” refers to the white streaks on its leaves, said to be drops of milk from Mary as she nursed the infant Jesus. The common name “milk thistle” also nods to the plant’s stems, which release a milky, white sap when cut.

Vogue’s best milk thistle supplements

Codeage Liposomal Milk Thistle

Why it’s Vogue-approved: Marrying 250mg milk thistle extract (equivalent to 80 per cent silymarin) with NAC, alpha lipoic acid, artichoke and dandelion, this powerful formula is brilliant at supporting the body’s detoxification processes, helping to fend off oxidative damage and promote good cellular health.

Why it’s Vogue-approved: A great option on the high street, Holland & Barrett’s supplement offers 100mg of milk thistle that helps to ease symptoms of indigestion, fullness and more.

Why it’s Vogue-approved: Using 100 per cent freshly-ground organic milk thistle seed – which equates to 80 per cent silymarin – and packaged in dark glass to preserve potency, the Fushi Organic Milk Thistle capsules deliver a pure, single-ingredient liver-support boost in one fell swoop.

Cytoplan

Cytoplan Organic Milk Thistle

Why it’s Vogue-approved: Utilising the most potent part of the milk thistle plant – the seed, where the active compounds are concentrated – Cytoplan’s capsules gently support the liver. It comes highly rated by practitioners, too.

Vimergy Organic Milk Thistle

Why it’s Vogue-approved: Harnessing a highly concentrated extract of the milk-thistle herb (equivalent to 2,200 mg fresh herb per serving), this fast-absorbing liquid formula delivers plant-based liver support in an easy-to-use tincture.

FAQs

What are the benefits of milk thistle?

This herbaceous plant, which grows throughout the Mediterranean Basin and in other mild climates, contains silymarin — a complex of natural polyphenols known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties. These compounds help support healthy liver function, which is why milk thistle has been traditionally used for centuries in the management of liver-related concerns. It also aids the body’s natural detoxification processes by encouraging metabolic activity and stimulating the production of bile, the substance responsible for breaking down fats.

When to use it

The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has recognised the use of milk thistle seeds and its derivatives in traditional herbal medicinal products to alleviate the symptoms associated with digestive disorders, while also supporting liver function. In short, milk thistle can help support detoxification, which is great if your digestion is sluggish. It is also a perfect hangover remedy.

How to use it

The easiest way to benefit from milk thistle is to take a supplement in either capsule or tablet form, twice a day or as advised by your doctor. Alternatively, herbal teas – as loved by Margot Robbie – can be prepared at home by adding hot water to a teaspoon of the dried fruit and letting it brew for about 10 minutes. You can also get ready-made infusions that combine milk thistle with other purifying plants such as mint, fennel and liquorice. It’s a convenient remedy to have at home for those days when you need it.

And when not to take it

Milk thistle is, obviously, not recommended for anyone who is allergic to the plant and its components. It should also be avoided during pregnancy and lactation as there is insufficient data regarding the safety of use during these periods of time.