Milk Thistle

Silybum marianum  Family: Compositae

 

Uses:

• Liver cleanser and tonic
• Liver ailments

Caution: None

Dosage: Decoction: 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

Range: Native to Europe, it was brought to North America by early colonists, grows in US zones 5-9

Habitat & Growing Conditions: 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.