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Blessed Thistle
Blessed Thistle refers to an herb that is native to Europe and Asia also known
by its botanical name, Compositae Cnicus benedictus. Often referred to as holy
thistle, St. Benedict thistle, spotted thistle, cardin, bitter thistle, or blessed
cardus, Blessed Thistle has been used in herbal medicine for many centuries.
Utilized in folk medicine as a treatment to digestive problems, liver diseases,
and gallbladder diseases; it is believed that blessed thistle is an excellent
supporting herb for plant combinations used in alternative medical treatment.
Although Blessed Thistle is native to Europe and Asia, it is now commonly grown
and cultivated throughout the world. The herb grows to approximately two feet
tall within a year and contains a brown stem that is hairy and erect. Its leaves
are lance shaped with spiny edges that are either lobed or cleft. During the
May to August period, Blessed Thistle produces numerous yellow flowers that
are arranged in a head at either the tip of a branch or stem. Its leaves, stems,
and flowers are used in herbal preparations.
Blessed Thistle has been used in a variety of herbal treatments for a number
of medical problems. These include: anorexia, fevers, diarrhea, headaches, lung
diseases, painful menstruation, liver congestion, stomach problems, dyspepsia,
fever, bleeding, hepatitis, jaundice, and hormonal imbalances. It aids in the
body’s cleansing and detoxifying systems due to its ability to promote perspiration.
Consequently it improves and purifies blood circulation due to its ability to
remove excess fluids found in the body. It is believed that Blessed Thistle
is so effective in purifying blood that it is believed that drinking a cup of
thistle twice a day will cure chronic headaches. An improved blood circulation
strengthens brain function and memory use. Blessed Thistle has also been used
as a way to stop bleeding and resolve blood clotting. Used in conjunction with
ginger, cramp bark, and blue cohost root, blessed thistle is an important component
in herbal treatments to menstrual problems. Additionally it has been used to
aid in the activation of a sluggish liver as a way to remedy such stomach and
digestive problems as flatulence. Medical studies have confirmed that Blessed
Thistle contains a variety of antibacterial and anti-yeast properties. These
studies have yet to confirm other popular uses of Blessed Thistle in herbal
treatments of cancer. It has also been used as a contraceptive and it is also
believed that its use by nursing mothers will aid in the production of a good
supply of mother’s milk. It has also been used as a good tonic for girls entering
womanhood.
The recommended daily dosage of Blessed Thistle set by the German Commission
E monograph is 4 to 6 grams. Blessed Thistle is able to be used in tea form
and there have been so significant side effects reported in its use. However,
individuals with allergies to plants in the daisy family should exorcise caution
in using Blessed Thistle.
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