Boldo (Peumus boldus) vs Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum)

Boldo (Peumus boldus)

Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum)

About

Boldo is a strongly aromatic multi-branched evergreen shrub or tree growing to 20 feet. It has egg-shaped leathery leaves with a lemony scent, clusters of white or yellow bell-shaped flowers, and small yellow berries. Native to Chile and Peru, it has become naturalized in the Mediterranean region and the West Coast of North America, where it grows on dry sunny slopes and in mountain pastures in the Andes. It is widely cultivated, and its leaves are gathered throughout the year.

Milk thistle (Silybum marianum, sometimes Carduus marianus) is a tall biennial with spiny, white-veined leaves and purple, thistle-like flower heads. The main constituent of milk thistle extract is silymarin, and milk thistle was historically used for liver disorders and to increase breast milk production. NCCIH says trials in liver diseases, including hepatitis and fatty liver disease, have been conflicting or too limited to reach conclusions.

Safety & precautions

Do not take during pregnancy. Subject to legal restrictions in some countries due to the presence of ascaridole, a toxic constituent in the volatile oil. The dose and duration of treatment should be restricted to minimize risk. If you take a blood thinner or any other prescription medicine, ask a pharmacist before using boldo.

Side Effects: May cause mild gastrointestinal upset or allergic reactions; MSK advises against it for people allergic to the daisy or ragweed family. Consult Professional: If undergoing chemotherapy or with severe liver conditions, seek guidance on concurrent use.

Safety text above is printed in full and is never abbreviated. For each plant’s complete precautions, drug and food interactions and preparation notes, open its own page - both are free.