How to Harvest Milk Thistle: 9 Steps

Milk thistle, scientifically known as Silybum marianum, is a flowering herb renowned for its natural healing properties, especially for liver support. Its seeds and leaves contain powerful antioxidants, making it a popular choice among herbal enthusiasts.
If you are looking to harvest milk thistle yourself, here are nine simple steps to follow.
1. Locating Milk Thistle: Look for milk thistle plants in open fields, along roadsides or abandoned areas with well-draining soil. They are commonly found in temperate and subtropical regions across the world.
2. Identifying Milk Thistle: These plants are recognizable by their purple flowers and spiky green leaves. They usually grow to be around 3-5 feet tall, and can be easily spotted due to their distinct appearance.
3. Choosing the Right Time: The ideal time to harvest milk thistle is when its flower heads have wilted and turned brown. This generally occurs between late summer and early fall.
4. Gloves and Tools: Due to the plant’s prickly nature, it’s essential to wear gloves while handling it. You will also need a pair of garden shears or strong scissors to cut the plant.
5. Cutting Flower Heads: Carefully cut off the dried flower heads at the base of the stem using your shears or scissors.
6. Collecting Seeds: Place the cut flower heads into a paper bag or breathable container. Gently shake or tap each flower head to help release the seeds.
7. Drying Process: Allow the flower heads to dry further in a well-ventilated area for about 5-7 days to ensure any residual moisture has been removed.
8. Separating Seeds from Chaff: After drying, gently crush the flower heads inside the bag or container using your hands or a wooden spoon to separate seeds from chaff (the outer husks). Sift through the mixture, discarding the chaff and retaining the dark brown or black seeds.
9. Storing Milk Thistle Seeds: Store the seeds in an airtight container, preferably in a cool, dark place. They can be stored for up to three years when properly maintained.
With these nine steps, you now know how to harvest milk thistle easily and efficiently. The seeds can be used to create herbal teas, tinctures, or supplements to promote liver health and overall wellbeing.