Milk Thistle
Also known as : Marys Thistle, Marian Thistle, Lady’s Thistle, Carduus Marianus, Cardo blanco, Mariendistel, true thistle, Speckled Thistle
Scientific Name : Silybum Marianum, Carduus Marianus
Identification : A spiny annual or biennial that grows to 1.8m high with distinctive white markings on its spike leaves and purple flowers
Properties : Anti-Cancer, Anti-oxidant, Anti-fibrotic, Lowers Cholesterol, Toxin blocker, Anti-inflammatory, Neuroprotective, Anti-Allergenic, Anti-tumour, Cholagogue, galactogogue, demulcent and Chemoprotective
Uses : It contains a property called "Silymarin" which has been proved to protect the liver from damage. It has even been successfully used to protect the liver from damage caused by Chemotherapy. It is also very good for preventing a curing gallstones. It has been used as a cure for skin, prostate and liver cancer. It lowers cholesterol. It is a strong antioxidant and can cure Acne. It aids digestive health
Try It : Tablets are available from most healthfood stores, standard dosage is between 80 and 200mg taken 3 times a day.
Warnings : It has an oestrogen boosting effect which can increase milk flow when nursing but is not recommend while you are actually pregnant.
Parts used: Seeds hold the main properties, Leaves aid with menstrual problems and digestive concerns. The flower head can promote milk production in nursing mothers.
Magic : Protection, Dream walking.
Planet : Jupiter
Element : Fire
Deities : Jupiter, Ra
Folklore and History: Its connection to medicine goes back thousands of years. This is one of the only available cures powerful enough to cure mushroom poisoning (including red cap). In times gone by when people would harvest most of their food from the wild this was common ailment, so good healers would always keep this cure in their cabinet. Today in America it is number 6 on the list of best sellers for herbal treatments. Historic records on this plant are difficult to confirm as there are so many thistles and the names have become a little confused with time.
Plant Tips : Tends to grow wild, it like a sunny area. Ensure the seeds are fully ripe.
For more plants click this link for my full index.
