milk thistle

Also known as Silybum marianum, milk thistle is a prickly plant with distinctive purple flowers and white veins. It contains an active element called silymarin, which is thought to have antioxidant, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.

Traditionally, it has been used to treat liver and gallbladder disorders, promoted breast milk production, and is known to be extremely proficient in protecting the liver from snake bites, alcohol and other environmental poisons. While it can be an acquired taste, milk thistle has a slight sweet and milk flavor that is often compared to dandelion tea.