(Silybum Marianum) Milk thistle gets its name from a milky sap that comes out of the leaves when they are broken. The leaves also have unique white markings that according to legend, were the source of the Virgin Mother Mary's milk for nursing baby Jesus. It is best known to treat liver disorders, including liver damage, chronic inflammatory liver disease, and chronic hepatitis. Milk thistle is also used for loss of appetite, heartburn (dyspepsia), and is beneficial for gallbladder issues. Milk thistle has also been used for diabetes, hangover, diseases of the spleen, malaria, depression, increasing breast milk flow, allergy symptoms, and starting menstrual flow.