Milk Thistle

Silybum marianum  Family: Compositae

 

Overview

Milk Thistle is a deeply respected liver tonic, treasured for its ability to cleanse, strengthen, and protect the liver. Rich in the compound silymarin, this spiky-seeded herb helps regenerate liver cells and supports detoxification pathways, making it a go-to ally for anyone seeking balance and renewal from within. Spiritually, Milk Thistle invites purification and clarity, offering grounding support during times of transformation. Gentle yet powerful, it’s a bitter blessing for the body’s filtering system.

Traditional Uses:

• Liver cleanser and tonic
• Liver ailments

Caution:

None

Applications: 

1-2 tsp gently crushed seeds 1 Cup boiling water  or 1oz gently crushed seeds for 1 pint of water, drink 1-2 Cups daily; 15-30 drops tincture can be taken 1-2 times daily

Parts Used:

Seeds

Habitat & Growing Conditions:

Native to Europe, it was brought to North America by early colonists, grows in US zones 5-9. Likes well drained, dry soil, full sun

Traditional Chinese Medicine Flavors:

Bitter, sweet, cool energy

Properties:

• Cholagogue
• Demulcent
• Galactogogue
• Bitter tonic

Key Constituents:

• Flavolignans known as silymarin
• Bitter principles
• Mucilage

Try the following products that include this powerful, liver cleansing seed: 

• Liver Tonic
• Womens Tonic

Sources:

The Way of Herbs, Michael Tierra p157

The New Holistic Herbal, David Hoffmann p215

Herbs An Illustrated Encyclopedia, Kathi Keville p179

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases. If you are under the care of a health care provider and/or taking prescription medication, check with your health care provider before taking any herbal supplement.