Scientists have been unable to isolate any active ingredients that would account for its aphrodisiac, stimulant, or hallucinogenic properties. A volatile oil is at the basis of its healing properties.
Amargogentin.
Honokiol.
Citral.
Flavanoids, quercetin.
Crocetin and crocin.
Anthraquinone glycosides.
Flavones, baicalein.
Diosgenin.
The seeds and leaves of the milk thistle plant are primarily used for medicinal purposes. The seeds are commonly used to make extracts or supplements that are believed to have liver-protective properties, while the leaves can be used in teas or tinctures for various health benefits.
Ruscogenin and neuorscogenin.
Cinnamaldehyde, eugenol.
Caffeic acid glycoside.