Can you be allergic to milk thistle, and who should be careful?

Milk thistle is a member of the Asteraceae family, which includes chamomile, dandelion, ragweed, echinacea and a number of other plants. Cross-sensitivity within this family is a well-known fact: if someone is allergic to ragweed pollen or chamomile, the risk of reacting to milk thistle is higher.

In addition, it is worth paying attention to the tablet's excipients — they are listed in the composition on the pack. Even if you are not sensitive to milk thistle itself, individual fillers can cause a personal reaction.

Who the supplement is not suitable for, and who is advised to consult a specialist first:

• pregnant and breastfeeding women — pregnancy and breastfeeding are listed among the contraindications, and the supplement is not used during this period;
• people with chronic diseases, especially of the liver or biliary tract, or with hormone-dependent conditions;
• those who take prescription medicines on a regular basis — silymarin may affect the metabolism of some medicines via liver enzymes.

For other groups this is not a reason to avoid the supplement, but a reason to make a considered decision together with a doctor rather than on your own.