MILK THISTLE SEED, whole

Botanical Name: Silybum marianum
Certification: EU organic*
Origin: Croatia / Turkey / China
Production: Milk thistle has red/purple flowers and shiny green leaves. Seeds are harvested by removing flower heads in the late spring or early summer at the end of the growing season, drying, and then removing seeds.
Qualities: Milk thistle has been used for over 2000 years as a herbal treatment for a variety of ailments including kidney, liver, and gallbladder problems. Several scientific studies suggest that components in milk thistle (specifically the flavonoid silymarin) protect the liver from toxins.
Common Use: The seeds are most commonly used to make teas (see our Liver Tea Blend), tinctures, and infusions, but they can also be used as a food. They contain 25% protein and have a nutty flavor similar to flax seeds. They can be used raw or toasted in cereals, loaves of bread, smoothies, shakes, and salads.
Storage: Store in a cool, dark, dry location in a sealed container.
Safety: We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.

*Note: Because of inter-governmental bureaucracy, when organic products with EU organic certification are not imported directly into Canada (imported into the USA first) they are not allowed to be named "organic" even though Canada and the EU have an "equivalency agreement" for organic standards.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and has not been evaluated by the CFIA or FDA. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This product has been packaged in the same facility as peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, soy, and other potential allergens.