Silybum marianum
“Milk Thistle” “Blessed Thistle”

 

Used medicinally for over 2,000 years, “Milk Thistle” herb is revered as a liver tonic, commonly used for its protective effects on the liver & to improve liver function. The seeds help protect the liver cells from chemical damage & will regenerate cells, which have already been harmed from drugs, alcohol, radiation, or toxic chemicals. It’s often included in formulas for people with hepatitis, cirrhosis & anyone receiving radiation treatments.  Traditional “Milk Thistle” extract is made from the seeds containing the flavanoid complex “silymarin”. (You can google “milk thistle harvesting” for simple instructions.) Silybum marianum grows 1-3’ tall forming a large attractive rosette of waxy lobed thorny leaves with white veining. In Summer, solitary showy violet “thistle” flowers appear atop strong upright stems. Growing in any soil, it can be invasive in the garden if the seed heads are not harvested - so be careful to remove them to prevent seedlings. Easily grown in a container too.

Annie