Certified Silybum Marianum Herbal Supplement Non-Irradiated USDA Kosher Certified by QAI Supports healthy liver function These seeds, like other dried seeds, may germinate under proper conditions. However, herb and spice seeds sold by Frontier are not intended for sprouting purposes and in many cases will not germinate. Milk thistle seed is used as a liver tonic, to "support healthy liver function" and overall well being. The hard, dark-colored seeds are ground and used to make a tea or tincture, encapsulated, or added to foods. The whole seeds are also sometimes added to foods.