Blessed Thistle Herbal Remedies

Blessed thistle is a bitter herb which stimulates the appetite, improves digestion, and relieves painful digestion. It has also been used to break up colds, for loss of appetite, and to stimulate lactation. Locally, it is used for wounds, and a compound, cnicin, with antibacterial properties has been identified. Take 1/2 to 1 cup of an infusion of the dry herb warm as a diaphoretic in colds and half a cup cool as a digestive tonic. Blessed Thistle has a taste of BITTER, ASTRINGENT and a temperature of COOL AND DRY.

Blessed Thistle Proper Dose

TypeDossage
Blessed Thistle Infusion1/2 cup 2 x daily
Blessed Thistle Tincture2-3 drpfl 2-3 x daily

Blessed Thistle Reference Information

Latin NameCnicus benedictus
Other NamesHoly thistle
Part UsedHerb
Herb FormsBulk herb, tincture.
AffectsBlood, Liver
CautionsLarge doses can cause stomach irritation.
Botanical InfoA spiny annual plant from the daisy family with yellow flowers and oblong leaves with white veins beneath.

Supporting Research

Blumenthal, Mark et al. 1998. The Complete Commission E Monographs. Austin: American Botanical Council.

Leung, A. and S. Foster. 1996. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients. New York: J. Wiley & Sons.

McGuffin, M. et al. 1997. Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton: CRC Press.

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