Native to southern and western Europe, Milk Thistle now grows widely across North America in sunny fields, meadows, and along roadsides. The plant is recognized by its glossy, deep green leaves marked with pale marbling and its reddish-purple thistle blooms. As the flowers mature, they produce seed heads crowned with a feathery pappus ~ fine, silky strands that carry the seeds on the wind before falling away as the plant dries.
In the cup, Milk Thistle seed tea has a gentle, earthy aroma and a mild, nutty taste with a light bitterness. Some traditional preparations add a touch of peppermint for a cool, aromatic contrast.
