Solgar Milk Thistle Herb Extract
Brand: Solgar · Form: CAPSULE [E0159]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that milk thistle supplements, such as the Solgar Milk Thistle Herb Extract, are generally considered safe for short-term use. However, based on the data provided, the ingredient listed in the NIH ODS data is calcium, not milk thistle. Therefore, our assessment must focus on the available data for calcium. For milk thistle specifically, data on its mechanism, safety, and efficacy from the provided sources is not available.
How it works
Based on the data provided, the active ingredient identified is calcium. Think of calcium as a building block for your body. It supports bone mineralization, helping to maintain bone density and mineral deposition. It also plays a role in neuromuscular relaxation, supporting proper muscle relaxation and nerve signaling [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
Data not available for milk thistle. For calcium, the data indicates that high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. High levels of calcium in the blood and urine can cause poor muscle tone, poor kidney function, low phosphate levels, constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, frequent need to urinate, abnormal heart rhythms, and a high risk of death from heart disease [NIH ODS]. The FDA received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports for all supplements, but the specific report count for calcium or milk thistle is not provided separately [FDA data].
Our recommendation
Data not available to make a specific recommendation for Solgar Milk Thistle Herb Extract. If you are taking a calcium supplement, be aware that calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS]. Speak with your healthcare provider about your specific needs and any potential interactions with your medications.
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Solgar |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 60.0 Vegetable Capsule(s) |
| Market Status | Off Market |
How to Read This Label
Supplement labels contain several key sections regulated by the FDA:
- Serving Size — The recommended amount per dose. Always check this — some products require multiple capsules per serving.
- Amount Per Serving — Shows the quantity of each nutrient in the product, typically in IU (International Units), mg (milligrams), or mcg (micrograms).
- % Daily Value (%DV) — Indicates how much a nutrient in a serving contributes to a daily diet. 5% DV or less is low; 20% DV or more is high.
- Other Ingredients — Lists inactive ingredients like fillers, binders, and capsule materials (e.g., gelatin, cellulose, magnesium stearate).
- Suggested Use — The manufacturer's recommended directions for taking the supplement, including timing and dosage.
Source: FDA Dietary Supplement Labeling Guide