Abstract
Background: Cardiovascular diseases are a global health challenge that requires effective therapeutic strategies. Silymarin and its most active biological component, silibinin, from milk thistle have been investigated as potential options for treating these diseases.
Methods: This review study detailed the effects of silymarin and silibinin on cardiovascular risk factors, including diabetes, dyslipidemia, and atherosclerosis. Data from published research articles (preclinical studies and clinical trials), case reports, reviews, and meta-analyses were collected and analyzed. A comprehensive search in the PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases for English studies was conducted using keywords selected based on the MeSH pattern, including “Antioxidants, Cardiovascular diseases, Diabetes, Dyslipidemia, Silibinin, Silymarin”. This research focused on primary and secondary studies from 1995 to January 2025.
Results: Silibinin and silymarin have cardioprotective effects and can reduce blood pressure and lipids. These agents protect cells from oxidative stress by activating antioxidant pathways. Studies have shown significant improvements in the metabolic profiles of patients with type 2 diabetes, especially when silibinin is consumed as a supplement alongside an appropriate diet. However, clinical findings require further investigation due to limitations such as small sample sizes and variability in dosages.
Conclusion: Silymarin and silibinin may be considered effective supplements for preventing and treating cardiovascular diseases, as existing evidence indicates their positive impact on reducing associated risk factors. However, to confirm their effects and elucidate the precise mechanisms involved, it is essential to conduct larger studies with improved designs and to explore novel and advanced pharmaceutical formulations. This approach will help achieve more reliable results and facilitate the effective implementation of these compounds in clinical practice