Silymarin is an extract of the herb Milk thistle (Silybum marianum.), which is a flavonoid. Silymarin has been shown to reduce the risk of skin cancer due to chemical exposure and due to UV light exposure in animal studies. Silymarin has been shown to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory characteristics in previous animal studies. The author calls for more testing and believes that silymarin is safe for human testing.

Chemical carcinogens and ultraviolet (UV) light exposure are the principal causes of skin cancer in humans.

CONCLUSION: Silymarin would appear to be good a way to prevent skin cancers in humans. Definitive studies regarding dose and method of use have not been done. Use in a skin cream has been suggested.

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PMID: 15586237.

Summary #054.