Potential therapeutic effects of milk thistle (Silybum marianum) in eye diseases, a scoping review

Abstract This review aims to evaluate the current literature on the potential therapeutic effects of milk thistle (Silybum marianum) in treating eye diseases and to identify the pharmacologic activities related to ocular diseases. To conduct this scoping review, a comprehensive literature search was...

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Main Authors: Zahra Tahmasbi, Mohadese Boroughani, Mohamad Mahdi Heidari, Ehsan Namvar, Mohammad Hashem Hashempur, Seyed Nooreddin Faraji, Mostafa Nazarpour-Servak, Mojtaba Heydari
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Springer 2024-12-01
Series:Discover Applied Sciences
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Online Access:https://doi.org/10.1007/s42452-024-06401-3
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Summary:Abstract This review aims to evaluate the current literature on the potential therapeutic effects of milk thistle (Silybum marianum) in treating eye diseases and to identify the pharmacologic activities related to ocular diseases. To conduct this scoping review, a comprehensive literature search was conducted using electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Web of Science. The search terms used included “Silybum marianum”, “milk thistle”, “eye diseases”, “cataracts”, “age-related macular degeneration”, and “glaucoma.” Inclusion criteria were in-vitro, in-vivo, or human studies investigating the potential therapeutic effects of Silybum marianum in ocular diseases. Studies not related to ocular diseases or not investigating the use of Silybum marianum as a therapeutic agent were excluded. Milk thistle has been found to have various therapeutic effects in treating ocular surface diseases, cataracts, glaucoma, and uveitis. Its pharmacologic activities related to ocular diseases include anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial activities. It also has anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) and aldose reductase inhibitor characteristics, which may be beneficial in treating some eye diseases. The appropriate dose and route of administration of milk thistle have also been identified. Milk thistle might be a potentially effective therapeutic agent for various eye diseases. However, further research is needed to fully understand its safety and effectiveness. Milk thistle represents a promising avenue for future research in the field of natural products and the treatment of eye diseases. Graphical Abstract
ISSN:3004-9261