Milk Thistle Tea Recipe
Milk thistle tea has been used for centuries for its numerous health benefits. Known to support liver health, improve digestion, and provide antioxidant properties, it’s no wonder that milk thistle tea has become a popular choice for many people.
In this blog post, we’ll cover how to make milk thistle tea from seeds, leaves, and tea bags and answer some frequently asked questions about this wonderful herbal tea.
Milk Thistle Tea From Seeds vs. Leaves
Both seeds and leaves of milk thistle can be used to make tea, and the benefits are quite similar. The primary difference is the concentration of the active compound, silymarin, which is more abundant in the seeds. Nevertheless, both seeds and leaves offer health-promoting properties, so choose whichever is more readily available to you or better suits your taste preferences.
How to Make Milk Thistle Tea From Seeds
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon milk thistle seeds
- 2 cups boiling water
- Optional sweetener (honey, stevia, or maple syrup)
- Optional flavor enhancer (lemon, mint, or ginger)
Instructions
- Use a mortar and pestle or coffee grinder to crush the milk thistle seeds slightly, which will help release their beneficial compounds.
- Place the crushed seeds in a teapot or heatproof container.
- Pour 2 cups of boiling water over the seeds.
- Cover and let the tea steep for 15-20 minutes.
- Strain the tea into cups, discarding the seeds.
- Add sweetener and flavor enhancer, if desired, and enjoy!
How to Make Milk Thistle Tea From Leaves
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup fresh milk thistle leaves (or 2 tablespoons dried leaves)
- 2 cups boiling water
- Optional sweetener (honey, stevia, or maple syrup)
- Optional flavor enhancer (lemon, mint, or ginger)
Instructions
- Rinse the fresh milk thistle leaves thoroughly under running water or use dried leaves.
- Place the leaves in a teapot or heatproof container.
- Pour 2 cups of boiling water over the leaves.
- Cover and let the tea steep for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain the tea into cups, discarding the leaves.
- Add sweetener and flavor enhancer, if desired, and enjoy!
How to Make Milk Thistle Tea From Tea Bags
Milk thistle tea bags can be found at health food stores or online. To prepare milk thistle tea using tea bags, simply follow the package instructions, which typically involve steeping one tea bag in a cup of boiling water for 5-10 minutes.
Final Thoughts
Milk thistle tea offers numerous health benefits and can be easily prepared using seeds, leaves, or tea bags. Experiment with different preparation methods and flavor enhancers to find the perfect cup of milk thistle tea for you.
FAQ
What Does Milk Thistle Tea Taste Like?
Milk thistle tea has a mildly earthy, slightly bitter taste. You can adjust the flavor by adding sweeteners or other ingredients like lemon, mint, or ginger.
Can I Drink Milk Thistle Tea Every Day?
Yes, you can drink milk thistle tea every day, but it’s important to note that moderation is key. Drinking 1-2 cups per day should be safe for most individuals. However, it’s always best to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating new herbal tea into your daily routine.
What Is the Best Way to Take Milk Thistle?
Milk thistle can be taken in various forms, including tea, capsules, or tinctures. The best way to take milk thistle depends on your preference and the specific reason for it. Consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate method for you.
Can You Eat Milk Thistle Raw?
Yes, you can eat milk thistle raw. The leaves can be used in salads, while the seeds can be ground and added to smoothies or yogurt. However, consuming large quantities of raw milk thistle may cause digestive discomfort for some individuals. If you’re new to milk thistle, start with small amounts and observe how your body reacts.
What Should You Not Mix With Milk Thistle?
Milk thistle may interact with certain medications, including anticoagulants, antiplatelet drugs, and some cholesterol-lowering medications. If you’re taking any medications, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before consuming milk thistle to ensure there are no potential interactions.
Can You Take Milk Thistle on an Empty Stomach?
Milk thistle can be taken on an empty stomach, but some individuals may experience mild digestive discomfort when doing so. If you find that taking milk thistle on an empty stomach causes discomfort, try consuming it with a small meal or snack.
