Blessed Thistle Herb Profile

Also known as

Cnicus benedictus, Carbenia benedicta, Cardo Santo, Carduus, Carduus benedictus, Cnici Benedicti Herba, Cnicus, Holy Thistle, Spotted Thistle, St. Benedict Thistle.

Introduction

The blessed thistle is a weed with prickly leaves and yellow flowers surrounded by purple spikes. It is indigenous to the Mediterranean, and was originally used in Ayurvedic medicine in India and Bhutan. The plant was then introduced to Europe in the 1500's and mainly cultivated in monasteries by monks where it gained the title "blessed"(benedictus) for its use in treating the black plague. It was noted as a type of panacea in herbal texts of the period primarily due to its use during the plague.

Constituents

Bitter principles, primarily cnicin.

Parts Used

Dried leaves, stems, and flowers.

Typical Preparations

As a tea infusion, in capsules or as an extract, or externally as a poultice for boils and wounds.

Summary

Precautions

Generally not recommended during pregnancy. If you are allergic to artichokes, avoid this herb.