Silybum marianum has other common names milk thistle, or Saint Mary's thistle, originally a native of Southern Europe, it is now found throughout the world. Milk thistle roots can be eaten raw or boiled. The young shoots in spring can be cut down to the root and boiled as a spinach substitute or they can also be added raw to salads.
A walk along Tel Gezer reveals the most unexpected and amazing moments of the distant past. The oldest Hebrew inscription was found here. The giant pagan altar of Canaan was found here. The city gates of the times of King Solomon were found here. Spring is the best time for walking. A green carpet of lush grass covers the hill slopes, and trails lead to the cold waters of a natural spring in the middle of wheat fields.