Milk Thistle Seed Whole, Organic

1 Oz.

Milk thistle, also called Blessed Milk Thistle or Mary Thistle, belongs to the aster family and is native to the Mediterranean but is now found worldwide. Its species name, *marianum*, and common names reference the Virgin Mary, as the white mottling on its leaves is said to symbolize her tears.

For centuries, people have harvested the ripe seeds to create infusions and extracts. These seeds contain flavonolignans known as silymarin, which are recognized for their liver-protective properties. Besides having strong antioxidant effects, silymarin may also enhance the liver's ability to regenerate every 45 days by promoting protein synthesis.