Milk Thistle
Other names Silymarin, Milk Thistle Extract, Silybum Marianum Extract
Milk thistle is a plant. Milk thistle extracts are used by some to improve mood. But is it effective for healthy people looking to brighten their day? Read on to find out what the science says about this natural nootropic.
This nootropic has no healthy human placebo-controlled studies that meet our inclusion criteria. Negative side effects can occur if used carelessly, so make sure you’re aware of the risks of Milk Thistle.
Benefits
Read about the effects of Milk Thistle in relation to the amount of evidence we've found
Can milk thistle extract improve your mood?
In a randomized trial on the effects of milk thistle extract in 18 patients with OCD, it was found as effective as fluoxetine, an anti-depressant drug often used in the treatment of OCD [1].
In a rat study, silymarin was found to increase symptoms of depression [2].
To conclude, evidence on the effects of milk thistle for mood is scarce, especially in healthy humans. The studies that exist on the affective effects of milk thistle extract or silymarin resulted in conflicting findings, but are anyhow of low relevance to healthy humans looking to improve their mood.
Risks
The legality and side effects of Milk Thistle
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about Milk Thistle
Studies
Studies conducted on the effects of Milk Thistle in healthy humans
Last updated Saturday, June 10, 2023