Medicinal Herbs of Eastern Canada by Brenda Jones

Author:Brenda Jones
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Nimbus
Published: 2020-10-14T17:46:03+00:00

MILK THISTLE

Silybum marianum

Family: Asteraceae

Other Names: St. Mary’s Thistle, Fr. Chardon-marie

Parts used: Seeds, leaves, root

Characteristics: Bland, slightly bitter

Systems affected: Liver, spleen, kidneys

Actions: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, astringent, cholagogue, diaphoretic, diuretic, galactagogue

Milk Thistle, or St. Mary’s Thistle, has been used for thousands of years throughout Europe and the Middle East as a liver remedy. Large and distinctive, its spiny leaves are marbled with white veins that were said to be the milk of the Virgin Mary, hence its name. It can grow up to 1.5 metres tall, and its magenta-coloured flowers appear at the top of the stems from April to October. Spiny bracts surround the flowers and give them a star-like appearance. It’s considered a noxious weed in some areas, as it can be toxic to cattle and sheep, especially when grown in nitrate-rich soil. It should be harvested only from organic areas that have not been used for farmland or treated with pesticides.

MEDICINAL USES:

Liver, spleen and kidney congestion, mushroom poisoning, alcohol and drug abuse, low milk production

One of the best liver remedies available, it contains silymarin, which has been studied extensively and proven to be effective in regenerating liver cells and protecting them from poisons. Used to reduce the toxic effects of alcohol or drug abuse, junk food, chemical pollution, or other threats to normal liver function. Can reduce the toxicity of Amanita mushroom poisoning.

Its antioxidants increase the resiliency of liver cells and encourage new growth. It stimulates bile, relieves congestion in the liver, spleen, and kidneys, reduces inflammation in the gallbladder, and assists in digestion of fats.

Symptoms of poor liver function may include poor skin or itching, food allergies, digestive problems, cold, dry constitution, constipation with small, hard, dry stool, and gallstones.

Increases milk flow for lactating women; safe for use during pregnancy.

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