The molecule is a flavonolignan isolated from milk thistle, Silybum marianum, that has been shown to exhibit antioxidant and antineoplastic activities. It has a role as an antioxidant, an antineoplastic agent, a hepatoprotective agent and a plant metabolite. It is a flavonolignan, a polyphenol, an aromatic ether, a benzodioxine and a secondary alpha-hydroxy ketone.
(2R,3R)-3,5,7-trihydroxy-2-[(2R,3R)-3-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-2-(hydroxymethyl)-2,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodioxin-6-yl]-2,3-dihydrochromen-4-one