Evidence supporting the use of: Silybin
For the health condition: Radiation Sickness
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2
Silybin (also known as silibinin), the major active component of silymarin extracted from milk thistle (Silybum marianum), has been investigated for its potential protective effects against radiation-induced damage. Preclinical studies, primarily in vitro and in animal models, have demonstrated that silybin possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytoprotective properties that may mitigate the cellular and tissue damage caused by ionizing radiation. For example, studies have shown that silybin can reduce DNA damage, lipid peroxidation, and apoptosis in irradiated cells, while enhancing the activity of endogenous antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase and catalase.
However, despite these promising experimental results, there is currently no robust clinical evidence in humans supporting silybin as an effective treatment or supportive agent specifically for radiation sickness (also known as acute radiation syndrome). Most evidence is limited to laboratory and animal research, and there are no large-scale randomized controlled trials confirming its efficacy or safety in human subjects exposed to radiation. Therefore, while the use of silybin for radiation sickness is justified by preclinical scientific investigation, the overall quality and quantity of evidence is low, and its use remains experimental rather than established in clinical practice.
