Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum)
Botanical Description
- Family: Asteraceae (Daisy family)
- Common Names: Milk Thistle, Holy Thistle, Marian Thistle, St. Mary's Thistle
- Parts Used: Seeds, Leaves, Roots
- Native Habitat: Found across Europe, including the UK and the Isle of Man, typically in wastelands, meadows, and roadsides.
Milk thistle is renowned for its liver-protective properties, primarily due to its active compound silymarin, which supports liver regeneration, detoxification, and protection against toxins.
Equine Use of Milk Thistle
Benefits for Horses
- Liver Support – Helps with liver damage, detoxification, and hepatic stress.
- Digestive Aid – Supports gut flora, bile production, and nutrient absorption.
- Antioxidant & Anti-Inflammatory – Protects against cell damage from toxins, infections, or medications.
- Hoof & Skin Health – Promotes healthy skin, mane, and tail growth.
- Recovery from Toxins – Supports horses recovering from poisoning or mycotoxins in feed.
Administration for Horses
- Ground Seeds (Most Effective):
- mixed into feed for liver support.
- Tea Infusion (Leaves & Roots):
- Add to drinking water for mild detoxification.
- Poultice (External Use):
- Ground seeds or leaves applied to wounds for skin healing.
⚠ Precautions
- May interact with some medications (e.g., liver-metabolized drugs).
- Avoid excessive use in pregnant mares.
- Can have mild laxative effects in high doses.
Canine Use of Milk Thistle
Benefits for Dogs
- Liver Detox & Support – Helps dogs with liver disease, hepatitis, and medication detox.
- Kidney & Urinary Health – Supports kidney function and reduces toxin buildup.
- Skin & Coat Benefits – Improves dry skin, dull coat, and inflammatory skin conditions.
- Immune & Antioxidant Boost – Fights oxidative stress and enhances immune response.
Administration for Dogs
- Powdered Seeds (Best Form):
- Tincture (Liver Support):
- Tea Infusion (Gentle Support):
- Dried leaves steeped in warm water, added to food.
⚠ Precautions
- Use caution in diabetic dogs (may affect blood sugar levels).
- Do not use in pregnant or nursing dogs unless directed by a vet.
- May cause mild diarrhea at high doses.
UK & Isle of Man Folklore of Milk Thistle
Folklore & Historical Use
- Associated with the Virgin Mary – Legend says the white veins on the leaves were formed from her milk, leading to its reputation as a sacred healing plant.
- Used by Celtic Healers – Traditionally used in liver and blood-purification tonics.
- Protection Against Evil & Hexes – In the Isle of Man, milk thistle was planted near homes to ward off evil spirits and protect against poisoning.
- Folk Remedy for Snakebites & Toxins – In old British herbal medicine, it was given to those bitten by snakes or suffering from poisoning.
- Symbol of Strength & Renewal – Considered a resilient plant, it symbolized recovery from illness and rebirth.
Detox
Inflamation
Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria)
Milk Vetch (Astragalus membranaceus)