Milk Thistle PS, 60 capsules

Milk thistle (also known as Silybum marianum)

The name ‘milk thistle’ derives from the legend that the white spots on the leaves originate from the milk of the Virgin Mary . In the production of milk thistle dietary supplements, the seeds (fruits) are used. The black pericarp contains flavonolignans (including silymarin, the main component of which is silybin), flavonoids and phenolic derivatives. Silybin is the main component.  Vitals’ milk thistle PS contains the patented ingredient Siliphos®, a milk thistle extract standardised to silybin, whose bioavailability is significantly enhanced by its combination with phosphatidylcholine (Phytosome® technology).

Increased bioavailability thanks to Phytosome® technology

Through the use of the patented Phytosome® technology from the Italian company Indena, the bioavailability of Milk Thistle PS has been significantly increased.  The word ‘Phytosome’ is derived from the Greek terms phuton (plant) and soma (body, particle).  The patented process reduces the natural agglomeration of certain phytonutrients that are poorly absorbed (such as those from milk thistle) and combines them with phospholipids (phosphatidylcholine) derived from sunflower lecithin.  The active ingredients are not enclosed in capsules like liposomes, but instead form a homogeneous mixture of small, easily absorbable particles.  Milk thistle contains active ingredients that are both hydrophilic (flavonoids, phenolic derivatives) and lipophilic (flavonolignans). Phospholipids possess lipophilic properties on one side and hydrophilic properties on the other.  Phytonutrients therefore often bind to phospholipids to form so-called phytosomes. This ensures they are absorbed particularly well. Cell membranes (such as those of intestinal cells) are composed of a phospholipid bilayer, which facilitates the effective uptake of active ingredients (see Figure 1). Research has shown that the bioavailability of silybin in Siliphos® is increased tenfold through the use of this phytosome technology, compared to a standard milk thistle extract.

Unlike liposome technology

In a liposome, the active ingredient is located at the centre of a bead surrounded by a bilayer of phospholipids. With Phytosome® technology, the mixture is truly homogeneous and the active ingredient is not encapsulated. Consequently, far fewer phospholipids are required than with liposomes.

About Indena

Indena is an Italian manufacturer with branches all over the world and an expert in the field of phytonutrients. Through extensive research and technological developments, they supply high-quality products with a sound foundation and excellent bioavailability.

Key ingredients

* No reference amount specified under the Food Information Regulation (LMIV)
Siliphos® is a combination of milk thistle extract with phospholipids from lecithin, produced using Phytosome® technology. Siliphos® and Phytosome® are registered trademarks of Indena S.p.A., Italy.

Ingredients

Emulsifier (sunflower lecithin), milk thistle extract (Silybum marianum, fruit), vegetable capsule (pullulan, from fermented cassava starch), rice starch (Oryza sativa).

Recommended intake

Take 2–3 capsules a day with water, with a meal.

Storage instructions

Store in a cool, dry place away from light (not in the fridge).

Legal information

Do not exceed the recommended daily intake. Food supplements are not a substitute for a balanced and varied diet and a healthy lifestyle. Keep out of reach of young children.