Milk Thistle

Identity

Common Name

Milk Thistle

Scientific Name

Silybum marianum

Botanical Family

Asteraceae

Native Region

Mediterranean basin

Cultivation Regions

Mediterranean, Europe, North America, Australia

Plant Parts Used

Seeds

Synonyms

Silymarin Herb, St. Mary's Thistle, Carduus marianus

Caffeine Level

Caffeine Free

A tall thistle with large glossy dark green leaves marbled with white veins, and a large round reddish-purple thistle flower head with spiny bracts; the small dark seeds are the part used, rich in silymarin.

Historical Background

Milk thistle has been a revered liver herb of European and Mediterranean medicine for over 2,000 years, its white-veined leaves said to mark the milk of the Virgin Mary. Its seeds, rich in silymarin, brew a mild tea long associated with liver traditions.

Earliest recorded uses: Used in European and Mediterranean medicine for over 2,000 years; a revered liver herb since Pliny and Dioscorides.

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Mild, slightly nutty, earthy, green

Tea Information

Research Summary

Milk thistle (silymarin) has moderate evidence from trials for some liver conditions, though results vary and quality is mixed. It is not a treatment for hepatitis, cirrhosis, NAFLD, or any disease, and should be discussed with a clinician, especially with liver or diabetes medications.

Evidence levels reflect the currently available scientific literature and may change as new research emerges. Where evidence is limited or conflicting, this is stated plainly.

References & Sources