Silybum marianum L. – Emprego farmacológico em afecções hepáticas: uma revisão da literatura

Abstract

Introduction: Liver diseases represent a global public health problem, causing high socioeconomic impact, including increased medical costs and reduced productivity. Given this scenario, the development of more efficient and accessible treatments for these conditions is urgent. Several medicinal plants have demonstrated hepatoprotective properties, that is, with the ability to prevent or repair liver damage. Among these promising alternatives, Silybum marianum L. stands out. Objective: This research sought to describe the efficacy of milk thistle as an ally in the treatment of liver disorders. Materials and Methods: For this purpose, an integrative review of the literature was carried out, gathering relevant scientific articles in English, Portuguese and Spanish, through electronic searches in the databases Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO), Google Scholar and National Library of Medicine (PubMed). Results: Through the study, it was possible to explore more about Silybum marianum, commonly known as ‘’milk thistle’’, a plant native to the Mediterranean region, Asia and North Africa, but currently cultivated worldwide. Silymarin is a secondary metabolite obtained from milk thistle, widely studied for its pharmacological properties and remarkable richness in flavonolignans. Its importance lies in its ability to effectively prevent and treat several liver diseases, such as cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma and liver fibrosis. Its mechanism of action involves three main pathways: antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic action. When administered orally, its bioavailability is low due to its lipophilic nature and limited solubility in water, but it is rapidly metabolized in the liver through phase I and II biotransformation reactions. Given this mechanism, the pharmaceutical industry currently offers several widely marketed drug specialties, including Legalon®, Steaton®, Silimalon®, Forfig®, Lison® and Figmed®. Conclusion: Milk thistle has been shown to be a phytotherapeutic agent with significant therapeutic potential, presenting benefits that go beyond its antioxidant and hepatoprotective action. Considering the high global morbidity and mortality rates of liver diseases, early intervention with silymarin treatment may maximize its therapeutic effects, making it a valuable complementary therapy for several liver conditions such as cirrhosis and alcohol- and drug-induced liver damage.