Name: Silybum marianum

Toxicity: not known

Common Name: Milk Thistle

Continent: Europe

Habitat: VII

Applicable Plant Components: root, herb, seed, flower

Invitatory

Fortificational

Reversional

Theurgical

Amoristic

Protectant

Tutelary

Sanguinary

Plenarial

Resurgent

Anecdotal: Silybum is the quintessential spirit of deflection and reflection, the mechanism of its medicine. It attracts only benevolent spirits that protect and secure wellness. This has a great deal to do with restoring and strengthening personal shields. These spirits are invoked by combining Silybum blossoms with steam or water. A bowl containing Silybum can be placed in ones bedroom to strengthen the spirit and renew vitality while sleeping. Similarly the same type of bowl in a sickroom will expel melancholy as well as the spirit of illness associated with it. Silybum can also be worn or carried for the same exorcismal properties and for protection. It can be strewn, planted in the garden (to guard against theft), or by ones door to prevent malevolent spirits from contaminating ones home. Silybum can be tossed in fires to deflect lightning and mixed in sachets to break hexes. Wands and staffs can be rendered from Silybum, working effectively in casting healing spells. When men carry Silybum they become better lovers, or so it is believed. The silvery white patches in Silybum leaves are associated with the Earth Mother’s abundance and nurturing nature.