Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) is widely recognized for its hepatoprotective (liver-protecting) properties, primarily attributed to its active compound, silymarin. The glandular system refers to the body's network of hormone-producing glands, such as the adrenal, thyroid, and pituitary glands. While milk thistle has a long history of traditional use for liver and gallbladder health, its direct effects on the broader glandular (endocrine) system are less established.

Scientifically, several studies have demonstrated that milk thistle can protect liver cells from toxins, support regeneration, and reduce inflammation. Since the liver plays a role in metabolizing hormones, improved liver function may indirectly support hormonal balance. However, there is limited direct evidence that milk thistle exerts specific effects on glands like the thyroid, adrenal, or pituitary outside of its liver support. Some herbalists and traditional systems may recommend milk thistle for "glandular health" based on its liver benefits and the liver’s indirect role in endocrine function, but this is not strongly supported by direct clinical trials.

Thus, while there is scientific validation for milk thistle’s hepatoprotective effects, its use to support the entire glandular (endocrine) system is only weakly supported by indirect evidence. The evidence rating is 2 out of 5, primarily due to the lack of direct studies on glandular organs beyond the liver.

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