 
Source:
Blessed thistle (Cnicus benedictus) - is a member of the Asteracea,
or daisy family and is native to Europe. The herb is now cultivated
all over the world including the United States. Blessed thistle grows
from a tab root, the stems are tall and thin producing the spiny leaves
that have showy heads of purple white and yellow flowers. The flowers
appear to be protected by their the thorny leaves that surround the
flower. |
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Traditional uses:
Blessed thistle has been attributed
to having "magical powers" by many Europeans. The name
"blessed thistle" stems from the belief that it repelled
hexes and attacks by psychics. Blessed thistle is also known as
Holy Thistle and the Holy Ghost herb. The herb has also been said
to attract love peace and harmony.
Physiology:
Blessed thistle is very effective in promoting breast milk
for nursing mothers. Lactate specialist prescribe the Blessed thistle
in a liquid approximately 30 minutes prior to nursing to boost the
milk supply. Blessed thistle is also prescribed for women's problems
including menstrual cramps and hormone imbalance. The herb has been
said to alleviate the symptoms of menopause including hot flashes.
As mentioned with the other herbs in this section Blessed thistle
is also an important source of phytoestrogens.
Blessed thistle also contains a lactone, cnicin, that provides the
bitterness that stimulates digestive activity. This digestive activity
includes the increase secretion of gastric acid and saliva which
promotes digestion. The active ingredient cnicin is also believed
to be an effective anti-inflammatory agent.
Clinical
Studies:
Cobalamin deficiency has been attributed to a primary cause
of fatigue. Clinical studies have shown that individuals who were
not even deficient in the vitamin following a B12 injection reported
a significant increase in energy has compared to those individuals
who received a placebo injection. Ellis FR, Nasser S. A pilot study
of vitamin B12 in the treatment of tiredness. Br J Nutr 1973;30:277–83.
Modern day
uses:
Today Blessed thistle is prescribed by physicians and herbal
specialists for the following:
- Please put bullets in front of the following:
- Hormonal imbalances
- Anti-inflammatory
- Improves circulation
- Painful menstruation
- Aphrodisiac
- Headaches
- Detoxification
- Digestive problems including excess flatulence
Antibacterial and anti-yeast properties
Precautions
and/or adverse effects:
Individuals with preexisting medical conditions should consult
with their physician particularly if they are taking prescription
or over-the-counter-medications or supplements. Women who are pregnant
or breast feeding and children should also consult with there physician
prior to taking any new supplements. Blessed thistle is generally
safe and free from side effects. However, individuals with allergies
to plants in the daisy family should use caution when taking blessed
thistle. |
