Evidence

Research on milk thistle use for specific conditions shows:

• Diabetes. Milk thistle might lower blood sugar in people who have type 2 diabetes, but more studies are needed to confirm its benefits.
• Indigestion (dyspepsia). Milk thistle, in combination with other supplements, might improve the symptoms of indigestion.
• Liver disease. Research on the effects of milk thistle on liver disease, such as cirrhosis and hepatitis C, has shown mixed results.