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 biennial 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. And why you won't find any strings, tags, staples. We've even development a new foil package, a recyclable innovation that keeps our tea fresher, longer. We thank you for choosing our product, but more importantly, we thank you for the trust you've put in the herbal values that we share. Suggested Use: The best way to make a good tasting cup of tea is by the infusion method. Place one tea bag in a cup and add no more than 6 oz of boiling water. Let steep for 3 minutes and remove the bag. Press the bag before removing to enhance flavor. Add honey to sweeten. Ingredients: Milk Thistle.