Milk thistle (silybum marianum)

interesting alternative nutraceutical preparation for pharmaceutical and medicinal applications. Moreover, it aims to summarize and
update the existing evidence of extract of milk thistle in the treatment of various diseases by in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies, and
special care is paid to the action mechanisms. The main active component of milk thistle, collectively known as silymarin, consists of a
mixture of flavonolignans and flavonoid taxifolin. Silymarin acts as a hepatoprotective, anticancer, anti-inflammatory,
immunomodulatory, neuroprotective and lactogenic agent. Precise mechanisms of silymarin action still needs investigations and
molecular/genetic background of silymarin synthesis is crucial to be elucidated for reinforcement of the therapeutical potential of the
plant by breeding.