Tradition and everyday use
Milk thistle has been part of herbal tradition for generations. Oil pressed from its seeds reveals the culinary side of the plant: mild, seedy and easy to pair with vegetables.
Its role in your diet
Linoleic and oleic acids are the main fatty acids in milk thistle seed oil. They contribute unsaturated fats to the diet. The oil and the silymarin extracts known in herbal practice are different products, each with its own composition and uses.
How we recommend using it
We recommend it for raw vegetable salads, fresh cheese and gentle dressings. It is an interesting choice for anyone wishing to explore an oil from a plant with a long herbal tradition.
- Dressings for leafy and raw vegetable salads.
- Vegetable spreads and fresh cheese.
- A gentle finishing touch for a prepared dish.
Taste and character
Mild and subtly seedy; intensity varies between batches.
What does science say?
Analyses published in 2024 describe a fatty acid profile rich in unsaturated fats. This information about composition should be distinguished from research into extracts of the plant.
How to store it
Keep tightly closed, away from light and heat. Check the storage temperature and use-by guidance after opening on your bottle.
Sources and further reading
Educational content. Updated: September 2026.