Milk Thistle (Silybum Marianum) contains silymarin which counteracts the toxic effects of a wide variety of poisons. Silymarin is a potent liver protectant used for hepatitis, viral hepatitis, cirrhosis, jaundice, psoriasis, free radical protection, fatty degeneration of the liver, hemorrhoids, varicose veins, degenerative disorders of blood vessels, mushroom poisoning and other liver diseases. Native to the Mediterranean region, Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum) is indigenous to both western and central Europe and is now found in the United States. An annual or herb growing up to 10 feet tall, Milk Thistle has a large bright purple flowering head. It is often considered a pesky weed. It gains its name from the milk white veins that streak its prickly edged leaves. The plant contains the natural chemical substance Silymarin, an active constituent highly concentrated in the fruit, but also found in the seeds and leaves. Milk Thistle has been used as both food and a health aid for hundreds of years. It makes a delicious salad green and cooked vegetable, as well as a wholesome tea. For more than 75 years, long before it became fashionable, Alvita was championing the profound health-giving properties of herbal teas. We travel to the far reaches of the globe for the finest herbs, the best growers, the most precious sources. Small wonder that so many consumers trust the Alvita name. Today, it stands for more than 100 different teas, including classic single herb varieties and our unique Alvita blends. The package you hold in your hand combines ancient herbal wisdom with modern traditional science. And brings directly to you all the richness and benefits of herbal teas. This philosophy is the very reason why you will find sensible, English pillow style tea bags that are oxygen bleached, not chlorine treated.