The active components in milk thistle extracts are a group of chemical compounds collectively known as silymarin. Silybin is considered to be one of the most active constituents of silymarin.

Silymarin and silybin are antioxidants, meaning they protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are toxic byproducts of oxygen metabolism in living cells. These free radicals can cause significant damage to living tissue when produced in amounts that exceed the body's neutralism mechanisms. Stress, medications, injuries, alcohol consumption and infections can all lead to an increased generation of free radicals.

Due to its antioxidant properties, silymarin helps protect cell membranes from free radical-induced damage. Silymarin also stabilizes liver cell membranes and prevents the binding and penetration of toxins such as ethanol, paracetamol, Amanita phalloides from poisonous mushrooms, among others. Additionally, silymarin can help the liver generate new cells and proteins to recover from injury. In addition to its antioxidant benefits, silymarin also has anti-inflammatory properties. It can reduce the harmful effects of inflammation and prevent the formation of scar tissue.

In summary, silymarin:

• It is a free radical scavenger that protects cell membranes from damage caused by toxins and oxidative stress.
• Increases total antioxidant capacity by increasing levels of intracellular antioxidants, namely glutathione and superoxide dismutase (SOD)
• Helps the liver recover from injury
• Has anti-inflammatory properties
• Protects against the formation of scar tissue