Work

Comparative Study on the Antioxidant Potential of Milk Thistle Seeds and Silymarin Extract: Potential Implications in Ruminants

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Interest in the use of phytogenic additives in animal nutrition is growing, but it remains uncertain whether standardized extracts offer advantages over whole plants. However, there is limited data on the effectiveness of standardized extracts compared with whole-plant extracts, making it difficult to choose the most effective source for animal feed. This work aimed to compare the nutritional composition and antioxidant activity of milk thistle seeds and silymarin extract to evaluate their effects on oxidative processes. The results showed significant differences between the two sources: the seeds were richer in minerals and fat-soluble compounds (vitamin E, carotenoids), while the extract presented higher contents of polyphenols and flavonoids and a higher total antioxidant capacity. This comparison provides new insights into the selection of optimal phytogenic supplement formulations, highlighting the importance of tailoring the product type (seeds vs. extracts) to the specific needs of the animal species and the nutritional objectives on farms.

Source: Bulletin of University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca Food Science and Technology

DOI: 10.15835/buasvmcn-fst:2025.0067

Authors: Alexandra Gabriela OANCEA, Arabela Elena UNTEA, Iulia VARZARU, Mihaela SARACILA, Petru Alexandru VLAICU

Institution: National Research Development Institute for Animal Biology and Nutrition

Language: English

Topic: Silymarin and Mushroom Poisoning

Subfield: Pulmonary and Respiratory Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Zero hunger

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $91