Standardized milk thistle extract concentrates a group of flavonoids called silymarin from *Silybum marianum* seeds. Unlike whole herb powders or teas, this extract guarantees a consistent dose of active compounds. Most of what we know about milk thistle comes from studies on this standardized form.
People take it mainly to support liver function. They use it during occasional detoxes or alongside medications that strain the liver. Some evidence points to silymarin helping maintain healthy liver enzyme levels.
You typically take capsules or tablets with a meal to improve absorption. Silymarin alone doesn't absorb well, so some brands bind it to a phosphatidylcholine complex for better uptake.
Mild side effects can include stomach upset. Caution is needed because it can lower blood sugar (monitor levels if you take diabetes medication) and may alter how the liver processes certain drugs.