subject: Learn about other Names for Milk Thistle [print this page] Author: Laurel Levine Author: Laurel Levine
Did you know other names for milk thistle species include Silybum eburneum, Silybum marianum and Silybum gonzaloi? The plants belong to the Asteraceae or Compositae family, commonly known as the aster, daisy or sunflower family. Over 20,000 species belong to the family, while only three species are commonly referred to as milk thistles. In many parts of the world, such as North America, Australia and New Zealand, they are considered invasive weeds. But, they are cultivated in Austria, Germany, Hungary, Poland, China and Argentina for their valuable seeds. The seeds of the plant are black in color and very small. They contain unique antioxidant flavonoids called silymarins. Silymarins have been the subject of many scientific studies. Their value in treating liver diseases, viral infections, type II diabetes and some types of cancer has been studied. Most researchers consider the results promising, although it will be a while before the plant is a part of mainstream medicine, if that ever happens. The primary use of silymarins in the mainstream medical community is as an anti-toxin for the consumption of poisonous mushrooms. When used as an anti-toxin, the silymarins are extracted from the seeds and a component called Silibinin is isolated. Other names for milk thistle that are more commonly used include blessed milk thistle, Marian thistle, Mary thistle, Mediterranean milk thistle and variegated thistle. The green leaves have milky white veins. Thistles (thorn-like structures) protect the flower and the maturing seed pod. The pink to purple flowers are a favorite of butterflies. Some people cultivate the plants in their gardens for the purpose of attracting the winged creatures. The plants are undesirable in fields where ruminant animals graze. The plants have a high potassium nitrate content that can be toxic to cattle, sheep, goats and other double-stomached ruminants. Other names for milk thistle of the Silybum eburneum species include silver milk thistle, elephant thistle and ivory thistle. In the past, a number of other plants were included in the genus, but modern research has shown that they were unrelated. Silybum gonzaloi is actually a hybrid; a cross between Silybum eburneum and Silybum marianum. The seeds of both species and the hybrid contain silymarin. Silymarin is an ingredient in many dietary supplements and is also found in some energy drinks. As with other antioxidants, the health benefits may include a reduced risk of various kinds of cancer and seemingly age-related diseases. There are probably other names for milk thistle, as it is scattered around the world. Of course, only people that are interested in plants and those that are aware of the healing properties would want to name it. Most people still think of them as weeds. All of us could benefit from including more plants in our daily diets, but not many people would like the taste of the thistles. So, dietary supplements are the next best thing. Antioxidant-rich dietary supplements could help you feel better and look better throughout your life, because they protect against sun damage, which is one of the primary causes of an aged appearance. Now that you know more about the other names for milk thistle, you might want to learn more about protecting your appearance for life. If you'd like to learn more about little known but clinically tested natural ingredients that are used for treating aging skin, visit my website today.About the Author:
Laurel is a long time user and passionate advocate of natural skin care products. Visit her site now to discover cutting edge, anti-aging skin care products she recommends after extensive research: http://www.beautiful-skin-site.com.
