Milk Thistle

Latin Name: Silybum marianum
Herb Class/Action: Hepatic, Bitter Tonic, Cholagogue, Kidney Tonic, Spleen Qi Tonic
Parts Used: Seed
Flavors: Bitter, sweet
Energetics: Mildly cool and moist
Traditional Benefits: Liver support, kidney support, digestive support, hormone support

Milk Thistle is a rare herb that not only supports liver function but also nourishes kidney health, making it a versatile and powerful plant.

Rich in silymarins, a group of compounds studied for their liver-protective properties, Milk Thistle is a cooling, moistening herb that helps relieve excess heat, particularly in the digestive system, liver, and skin. Its natural bitter flavor makes it an excellent tonic for the liver and digestive system (Spleen Qi).

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Milk Thistle is known for its protective, heat-clearing properties, which support liver detoxification without depleting the body. It clears both “toxic heat” and “empty heat,” leaving the body nourished, particularly the Liver Blood and Yin. This nourishment helps maintain healthy hair, skin, and circulation, providing a fresh, rosy glow.

Milk Thistle’s ability to support kidney health makes it one of the few herbs in the herbal world to simultaneously promote liver and kidney detoxification. Rich in lipids, flavonoids, and volatile oils, the most important constituent of Milk Thistle is silymarin, known for its antioxidant and liver-supporting benefits. This compound is also used in modern skincare for its antioxidant properties.

The seed of the Milk Thistle plant is the most commonly used part for therapeutic purposes, typically consumed as a tincture, extract, or powder. It has also been used traditionally to support the healthy production of breast milk during lactation.