Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) – also known as Mary’s thistle and Holy thistle – is a common flowering herb1 In Asteraceae. For many, the plant is nothing more than an invasive weed. However, this herb has extraordinary medicinal properties. It has been used in traditional Chinese, European and Ayurvedic medicine for over 2,000 years.2 It is revered for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antiviral properties.
Some people consider growing it at home, but you must check with your local cooperative extension to make sure it is not prohibited in your area. If you’re allowed to grow it, be aware that milk thistle is highly invasive and can quickly spread into your and your neighbor’s yards.
A single flower head has nearly 200 seeds and can germinate in temperatures ranging from 32 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Once a plant is established, it is difficult, if not impossible, to stop its spread. It’s also important to note that milk thistle is poisonous to livestock, so it’s dangerous to grow it near farms that raise cattle or sheep.
The medicinal properties of milk thistle are attributed to a compound called silymarin. These are a group of flavonoids that have several health benefits. While all parts of the plant are edible, silymarin is only found in the seeds.
This herb has been considered a liver remedy for centuries due to the liver-protecting properties of its active ingredients. The researchers speculate that the active cytoprotective mechanism of silymarin is modulation of cellular transporters, estrogen and nuclear receptors. It has also been found to inhibit apoptosis.3 Using milk thistle supplements is not for everyone.4
