The first thing most people think of when they hear of the milk thistle plant is the milky sap that fills its stalks. In The 16th century, the plant was quite popular, with nearly all parts of the plant being eaten. The raw roots were often eaten plain, boiled or roasted, while the shoots were boiled as a vegetable. The leaves were often treated in a manner similar to spinach, and the spiny portion of the flower was eaten like an artichoke. Indeed, Early Christians even dedicated the plant to Mary, and referred to Milk Thistle as Marian Thistle. Today however, the plant`s seeds are what have better earned the claim to fame. For 2000 years they have been used to treat liver issues, and aid in protecting the liver from toxins, with increasing scientific research as to the therapeutic and medicinal properties. Today studies have reported that the seeds can be used to treat liver cirrhosis, chronic hepatitis, toxin induced liver damage and gall bladder disorders. Milk Thistle, or Silybum marianum seeds have also been shown to help reduce and eliminate liver damage. Outside of treating the liver, some studies have also shown that they can lower cholesterol levels and reduce insulin resistance for those with diabetes. In cancer treatments, some have shown that the seeds can reduce the growth of cancer cells in breast, cervical, and prostate cancers though further study is required in this matter. Milk Thistle seeds have also been shown promise in aiding with substance abuse, diminishing the withdrawal symptoms of opiate addiction. This is a 1 oz packet of Milk Thistle seeds.
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