Who should not take this food supplement without consulting a doctor?

Milk thistle is a well-known plant, but being ‘natural’ does not mean ‘suitable for everyone without exception’. There are several groups of people who should consult a doctor or pharmacist before they start taking it.

• Liver and biliary tract disorders. If you have already been diagnosed with a liver or gallbladder condition, any supplements that affect these organs should be agreed with a specialist — even plant-based ones.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding. The manufacturer states that the product should not be used during these periods.
• Regular medication. Silymarin may affect how the liver metabolises certain drugs. If you take medication on a regular basis, it is important to make sure there are no interactions.
• Allergy to plants of the daisy family (Asteraceae). Milk thistle belongs to this family (like chamomile, calendula and ragweed). If you are known to be sensitive to such plants, the product should be used with caution.

In all other cases, the product is generally available to healthy adults without a prescription — but the manufacturer recommends consulting a doctor before you start taking it.