Silybum Marianum
Milk Thistle Seed / Silybum Marianum / Milk Thistle Whole Seeds Tea / Organic Dried Herb
Origin: Bulgaria
Botanical Name: Silybum Marianum
Other Names: Holy thistle, Mary thistle, St. Mary's Thistle, Lady's thistle, Thrissles, Mediterranean milk thistle, Variegated thistle
This species is an annual or biennial plant of the family Asteraceae. This fairly typical thistle has red to purple flowers and shiny pale green leaves with white veins. Originally a native of Southern Europe through to Asia, it is now found throughout the world. Milk thistles hard, dark-colored seeds are ground and used to make a tea or tincture, encapsulated, or added to foods. The whole seeds are also sometimes added to foods. The seeds have a slightly bitter, oily taste and a faint aroma. To use as a tea, crush the seeds for more thorough steeping. Use as you would flax, hemp or sesame seeds sprinkle seeds on salads and add to cooked foods and smoothies.
Usage: In a tea infuser, add 1 tablespoon of milk thistle seeds (ground into a powder). Place the tea infuser in a mug, cup or teapot. Add freshly boiled water and let it brew for 3-5 minutes. Add honey, if desired.
Traditional Use
Milk thistle, named after the white veins on its leaves, has been grown in European monastery gardens for centuries. Its seeds are traditionally used:
- To support liver health and the body's natural cleansing
- To support comfortable digestion, especially after rich meals
- Ground and sprinkled over salads, porridge and smoothies
Harvest & Character
Hard, shiny, dark brown to black seeds with a mild, slightly bitter and oily taste. Crush or grind the seeds just before use.
Please note: Avoid if you are allergic to plants of the daisy family. Consult your doctor first if you take regular medication.
Disclaimer: These statements and products have not been evaluated by the FDA. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or condition. If you have a health concern or condition, consult you doctor. Always consult a medical doctor before modifying your diet or using any new product.
