Milk thistle is a Mediterranean plant in the daisy family that is characterized by tufts of purple flower heads surrounded by a halo of protective thorns. Because the plant is associated with the Virgin Mary, who is reputed to have wept over the plant, it is also called Holy Thistle, Blessed Thistle, Mary Thistle and Lady’s Thistle. The plant is harvested for its seed, which contains a significant amount of amino acids, protein and, most notably, a group of chemical compounds referred to as silymarin. Milk thistle seed can be added to salads and other foods, but is most commonly used to produce teas, infusions, tinctures and extracts.
Milk Thistle Seed, Organic, 1/4 lb
Milk thistle, also known as Blessed Milk Thistle and Mary Thistle, is a member of the aster family that is native to the Mediterranean region and now naturalized throughout the world.
The plant's species name (marianum) and many of its common names reference the Virgin Mary because the white mottling that appears on the leaf is said to be made by her tears.
For thousands of years, the ripe seeds have been harvested to make infusions and extracts.
