PURPOSE: A composition containing a Cirsium japonicum extract for suppressing activation of hepatic stellate cells is provided to prevent and treat chronic liver diseases. CONSTITUTION: A composition for suppressing activation of hepatic stellate cells contains 1-100 mg/kg of a Cirsium japonicum extract. The composition is a health food. The Cirsium japonicum extract suppresses proliferation of hepatic stellate cells, caused by platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta).본 발명은 엉겅퀴 추출물을 함유함으로써 간성상세포의 활성화를 억제함으로써 만성 간질환을 예방 및 개선할 수 있는 조성물에 관한 것이다.