Milk Thistle 230 mg Alcohol-Free
Nature's Answer
Milk Thistle 230 mg Alcohol-Free
4.7
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
(7520 ratings)
Milk Thistle 230 mg
Score 65.0
A single-ingredient, alcohol-free liquid Milk Thistle extract, good for liver support but lacks standardization and additional ingredients for broader detoxification or skin benefits.
Quantity: 2 Liquid(s)Servings size: 1 mL (30 servings)
Selected goals:
Other goals:
Detoxification
Skin Health
leaderboard Score 65.0
A single-ingredient, alcohol-free liquid Milk Thistle extract, good for liver support but lacks standardization and additional ingredients for broader detoxification or skin benefits.
insights Analysis
Nature's Answer Milk Thistle liquid extract offers a traditional approach to liver support. The 230mg of Silybum marianum seed extract is a moderate dose, but without specific standardization to silymarin, the active compound, its full potency can be uncertain. The alcohol-free liquid form is a significant advantage for those who prefer liquids for faster absorption or have sensitivities to alcohol-based tinctures. For detoxification, Milk Thistle is highly regarded for its hepatoprotective effects. Its contribution to skin health is indirect, primarily by supporting the liver in processing toxins that could otherwise impact skin clarity and health. However, as a single ingredient, it doesn't offer the multifaceted benefits of products combining Milk Thistle with other synergistic herbs or direct skin-supporting nutrients.
- Liquid, alcohol-free form may offer better absorption and is suitable for individuals who prefer or require alcohol-free supplements.
- Contains Milk Thistle, a well-established herb for liver detoxification and protection.
- Comes from Nature's Answer, a brand with a reputation for quality herbal extracts.
- The Milk Thistle extract is not specified as standardized to silymarin, making it difficult to ascertain the exact concentration of its active compounds.
- As a single-ingredient product, it lacks the synergistic benefits that come from combining Milk Thistle with other liver-supporting herbs or direct skin-health ingredients.
- The price per serving is higher than many other Milk Thistle options, especially considering the lack of standardization and additional beneficial ingredients.
- While generally safe, individuals with liver conditions or those on medication should consult a healthcare professional before using Milk Thistle supplements.
- Liquid supplements require accurate dosing to ensure consistent intake.
$21.74($0.72 per serving)
 iHerb | $ 21.74 | |
 Amazon | $ 21.82 |
bolt Effectiveness for goals
Milk Thistle, primarily through its active compound silymarin, is widely studied for its potential to support liver health. Research suggests it may offer antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits to liver cells. However, more comprehensive studies are ongoing to fully understand its extent of effectiveness.
Historically, Milk Thistle has been used in relation to alcoholic liver disease, and some studies suggest it may help shield liver cells from alcohol-related harm. While it shows potential, it is not considered a cure or a replacement for conventional medical treatment and abstinence. Its role is primarily supportive.
Milk Thistle is often associated with supporting the liver's natural detoxification processes due to its antioxidant properties. It may help protect liver cells from damage by harmful substances. However, the human body has its own efficient detoxification systems, and the term 'detoxification' can be broadly interpreted.
The general scientific consensus is that Milk Thistle shows promise as a supportive supplement for liver health, backed by traditional use and some research. While it's not a proven cure for severe liver diseases, it's considered a potentially beneficial agent for liver protection. More large-scale, high-quality human trials are needed to fully confirm its efficacy for various conditions.
Some preliminary studies indicate Milk Thistle may offer benefits for individuals with NAFLD, potentially by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the liver. Despite promising early findings, the current scientific evidence is not strong enough to recommend it as a primary treatment. Consultation with a healthcare professional is advised.
schedule Dosage, timing & forms
Typical daily dosages of Milk Thistle extract often range from 200 mg to 400 mg, standardized to 70-80% silymarin. Some research has explored higher doses for specific contexts. For general use, dosages usually fall within the 200-400 mg range, often divided into multiple smaller doses throughout the day.
Milk Thistle is generally recommended to be taken with food. This can help improve the absorption of its active compounds, particularly silymarin. Taking it with food may also help reduce the likelihood of minor digestive upset.
Many formulations of Milk Thistle recommend taking it two to three times per day. Dividing the daily dose helps maintain consistent levels of its active compounds in the body. Always refer to the specific product label for detailed instructions.
Milk Thistle is commonly available as capsules, tablets, and liquid extracts. It can also be found in tea bags or powder form. Capsules and tablets are the most prevalent, often standardized for their silymarin content.
Standardization means the extract is processed to contain a specific, guaranteed percentage of the active compound, silymarin. This process helps ensure consistency in potency between different batches and brands of the supplement. A common standardization level is 70-80% silymarin.
health_and_safety Safety & interactions
Yes, milk thistle can interact with certain prescription medications, particularly those metabolized by the cytochrome P450 enzyme system in the liver. This could potentially alter how the body processes drugs, affecting their effectiveness or increasing side effects. It is important to consult a healthcare professional before combining milk thistle with any medications.
Milk thistle is generally well-tolerated, but some individuals may experience mild gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea, diarrhea, or indigestion. Allergic reactions are also possible, especially in individuals sensitive to plants in the Asteraceae family. If severe or persistent side effects occur, discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider.
Some research suggests that milk thistle might have mild antiplatelet effects, which theoretically could increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications. However, the evidence for this interaction is limited and conflicting. Individuals on blood thinners should discuss milk thistle use with their healthcare provider.
Milk thistle may have a mild blood sugar-lowering effect, particularly in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Those managing diabetes or taking medications to control blood sugar should monitor their glucose levels closely if using milk thistle. Discussing this with a healthcare provider is advised to prevent potential hypoglycemia.
Due to insufficient scientific data on its safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding, milk thistle is generally not recommended for these populations. There is limited information regarding its potential effects on the fetus or infant. It is always best to consult a healthcare provider before using any supplements during these periods.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum) seed extract | 230 mg |
Categories
Milk Thistle 68.0
This is a straightforward Milk Thistle product that's alcohol-free and in a liquid form, which are pros for some users. The dose of 230mg of extract is decent. However, the lack of standardization to silymarin, the key active compound, means its potency compared to other standardized Milk Thistle supplements is less clear, thus limiting its score within the Milk Thistle collection.
Goals
Detoxification 70.0
Milk Thistle is a well-regarded herb for liver detoxification due to its hepatoprotective properties. The liquid form can facilitate absorption. However, without standardization to silymarin, its full detoxification potential compared to other products is less certain, and it lacks the comprehensive multi-herb approach seen in higher-scoring detoxification blends.
Skin Health 60.0
The product indirectly supports skin health by aiding liver detoxification, which can reduce the burden of toxins on the body and potentially improve skin clarity. However, it does not contain specific direct skin-benefiting ingredients, limiting its efficacy for this goal compared to multi-ingredient supplements formulated with skin-specific nutrients.
Recommended Alternatives
86 Value 
Silymarin Complex
California Gold Nutrition
4.8
★★★★★
(70295 ratings)
Provides excellent value, combining robust Milk Thistle potency (estimated 300mg) with a competitive price per serving. It uses standardized Silymarin extract for reliable results.
85 Value 
Silymarin Complex
California Gold Nutrition
4.8
★★★★★
(70682 ratings)
Provides excellent value, combining robust Milk Thistle potency (estimated 300mg) with a competitive price per serving. It uses standardized Silymarin extract for reliable results.
82 Value 
Double Strength Silymarin 300 mg
NOW
4.8
★★★★★
(59188 ratings)
Provides excellent value, combining robust Milk Thistle potency (estimated 300mg) with a competitive price per serving. It uses standardized Silymarin extract for reliable results.
86 Performance
Silymarin Complex
California Gold Nutrition
4.8
★★★★★
(70295 ratings)
Offers superior Milk Thistle potency (estimated 300mg). Features a standardized Silymarin extract for consistent efficacy. Also includes beneficial ingredients like Black Pepper Fruit Extract, Ginger for enhanced liver support.
85 Performance
Silymarin Complex
California Gold Nutrition
4.8
★★★★★
(70682 ratings)
Offers superior Milk Thistle potency (estimated 300mg). Features a standardized Silymarin extract for consistent efficacy. Also includes beneficial ingredients like Black Pepper extract, Ginger for enhanced liver support.
82 Performance
Double Strength Silymarin 300 mg
NOW
4.8
★★★★★
(59188 ratings)
Offers superior Milk Thistle potency (estimated 300mg). Features a standardized Silymarin extract for consistent efficacy. Also includes beneficial ingredients like Artichoke, Dandelion for enhanced liver support.
63 Budget 
Milk Thistle 500 mg
Mason Natural
4.7
★★★★★
(1073 ratings)
Offers a significantly lower price per serving. Provides estimated 500mg of Milk Thistle.
57 Budget 
Milk Thistle 175 mg
California Gold Nutrition EuroHerbs
4.7
★★★★★
(6972 ratings)
Offers a significantly lower price per serving. Provides estimated 175mg of Milk Thistle. Features standardized Silymarin for reliable benefits.
57 Budget 
Milk Thistle Extract 175 mg
Lake Avenue Nutrition
4.7
★★★★★
(5433 ratings)
Offers a significantly lower price per serving. Provides estimated 175mg of Milk Thistle. Features standardized Silymarin for reliable benefits.
86 Value
Silymarin Complex
California Gold Nutrition
4.8
★★★★★
(70295 ratings)
Provides excellent value, combining robust Milk Thistle potency (estimated 300mg) with a competitive price per serving. It uses standardized Silymarin extract for reliable results.
85 Value
Silymarin Complex
California Gold Nutrition
4.8
★★★★★
(70682 ratings)
Provides excellent value, combining robust Milk Thistle potency (estimated 300mg) with a competitive price per serving. It uses standardized Silymarin extract for reliable results.
82 Value
Double Strength Silymarin 300 mg
NOW
4.8
★★★★★
(59188 ratings)
Provides excellent value, combining robust Milk Thistle potency (estimated 300mg) with a competitive price per serving. It uses standardized Silymarin extract for reliable results.
86 Performance
Silymarin Complex
California Gold Nutrition
4.8
★★★★★
(70295 ratings)
Offers superior Milk Thistle potency (estimated 300mg). Features a standardized Silymarin extract for consistent efficacy. Also includes beneficial ingredients like Black Pepper Fruit Extract, Ginger for enhanced liver support.
85 Performance
Silymarin Complex
California Gold Nutrition
4.8
★★★★★
(70682 ratings)
Offers superior Milk Thistle potency (estimated 300mg). Features a standardized Silymarin extract for consistent efficacy. Also includes beneficial ingredients like Black Pepper extract, Ginger for enhanced liver support.
82 Performance
Double Strength Silymarin 300 mg
NOW
4.8
★★★★★
(59188 ratings)
Offers superior Milk Thistle potency (estimated 300mg). Features a standardized Silymarin extract for consistent efficacy. Also includes beneficial ingredients like Artichoke, Dandelion for enhanced liver support.