Does Alcohol Affect Milk Thistle?

May affect absorption or how you feel

The short answer

Alcohol reduces silymarin's liver-protective efficacy. Take milk thistle well before or after drinking to preserve its hepatoprotective benefit.

How to arrange timing

Take milk thistle at least 2 hours before alcohol for best liver protection.

Reference

Reference noted for this food and supplement combination: NIH NCCIH 2024

Important context

The effect can also change with food amount, supplement dose, product formulation, health conditions, and medication use. Ask a doctor or pharmacist first if you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a chronic condition.