The stem can be peeled to remove the spiny points and then eaten like celery. The leaves can be steamed like spinach. The roots can be boiled or eaten raw. Even the seeds can be eaten, but are quite potent and should be supervised by a knowledgeable provider. Milk thistle has be a long standing staple with the herbalist.
Milk thistle is extremely popular in Europe where it is used in liver tonics.
The flavonoid silymarin, according the Mindall's Herb Bible , has been shown to have direct effects on the liver. Some feel that the effects are protective in nature, while other studies, particularly from Germany, show that it can actually help treat acute and chronic hepatitis, jaundice, and counter the effects from drugs and alcohol. Milk thistle can rejuvenate the liver and promote the develop of new liver cells. The liver is our second largest organ and its proper function is critical to our overall health. It produces bile, necessary for fat breakdown, and detoxifies pollutants that enter our bloodstream.