Milk Thistle Seed Powder, Organic

Size: 1 oz package
Format: Powder

Plant Part: Seeds
Farming: Organic

Also known as:  Silybum marianum, Holy Thistle, Variegated Thistle, Lady's Thistle.

Origin: Bulgaria, Poland

Silybum marianum is an annual in the Asteraceae family that grows three to seven feet tall with lettuce-like leaves and spikey, purple flowers. Milk thistle has been revered for thousands of years as an effective herb. However, early on, all parts of the plant were used for various purposes. The leaves were extensively utilized and often eaten as a vegetable.

In the U.S, it is considered a weed in several states, particularly in the Pacific Northwest, in states such as Washington. It is a member of the vast sunflower or Asteraceae family, which encompasses a wide variety of well-known plants such as lettuce (Lactuca sativa), the common daisy (Bellis perennis), the blessed thistle (Cnicus benedictus), and artichoke (Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus), to name a few. Many of the common names and the outdated Latin name refer to the belief that the milk of the Virgin Mary fell on the plant, leaving behind the milky white 'marbling' that gives the leaves their very distinctive coloration.

Active Compounds: Silymarin, Silyhermin, Neosilyhermin A and B; protein and mucilage, quercitin and taxifolin; kaempferol and dihydrokaempferol; apigenin, eriodyctiol, chrysoeriol, and naringin; phytosterols like cholesterol, campesterol, stigmasterol and sitosterol, Luteolin, Triterpine Acetate and Fumaric Acid.

Actions: Alterative, Cholagogue, Demulcent, Galactagogue, Hepato-protective, Hepato-Trophorestorative, Bitter Tonic.

Indications: Milk thistle seed is a renowned herbal remedy, primarily used for its high concentration of silymarin, a compound with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that protect liver cells from toxins, support regeneration, and help treat liver diseases such as cirrhosis and hepatitis. It is commonly used as a daily tincture to support gallbladder function, aid digestion, and potentially help manage type 2 diabetes or reduce chemotherapy side effects (check with your oncologist BEFORE taking any herb during chemotherapy).

Precautions: Milk thistle is generally safe but can interact with medications metabolized by the liver (via the cytochrome P450 system), including blood thinners like warfarin, diabetes drugs, and some anti-anxiety meds. People with allergies to ragweed, daisies, or artichokes, as well as those with hormone-sensitive conditions (e.g., breast cancer, endometriosis), should avoid it or consult a doctor.

Herbal Magick: Milk thistle seed magick centers on profound protection, purification, and maternal strength, often linked to the Virgin Mary. Known for shielding against evil, curses, and malicious spirits, the plant—specifically its seeds—is used in ritual work for healing, grounding, and guarding against envy.

The Food and Drug Administration has not evaluated this information. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease; it is for educational purposes only.