Milk Thistle - what do I do with it?

[ASusan]

Dumb question, but I bought some milk thistle seeds last week, and now I'm not sure what to do with them. I've searched the threads and it seems like at least one of you makes a tincture, but how do I do that? I have about 3 Tbs of milk thistle seeds.

I don't sprout them, right?
I know some of you do capsules, but I have the actual seeds.

Thank you!

[kortner]

You could make a tea easily enough!

For a tincture, I am a fan of the folk method - but you don't have all that much to work with. Basically you'd put them in a jar, ideally full to the top with seeds, then cover in alcohol (usually highest proof available like everclear) and wait 6 weeks, strain and press, etc. Probably more work than 3 tbsp. warrant!

I think for milk thistle (and nettles) there are certain chemical constituents that are only viable fresh - so getting fresh tinctured or buying freeze-dried capsules is a good option. HTH!