It’s a gorgeous day to find out about the different health benefits of blessed thistle.
Don’t be confused with blessed thistle and milk thistle. They’re related but different from each other.
Blessed thistle is Cnicus benedictus while milk thistle is Silybum marianum.
Other names for blessed thistle are Cnicus, Cnicus benedictus, St. Benedict’s thistle, holy thistle, and spotted thistle.
This is my list of the health benefits of blessed thistle.
1. Blessed Thistle Has Antimicrobial Properties
Blessed thistle contains certain compounds like cnicin and polyacetylene which are said to have antibacterial effects.
Some studies suggest that it’s effective against harmful bacteria like Bacillus subtilis, E. Coli, and Staphylococcus aureus.
2. Aids In Digestive Health
Generations have used blessed thistle as a digestive tonic.
It’s used to treat different digestive concerns like bloating, gas, and indigestion.
This herb is said to have cholagogue properties that can stimulate the production of bile which not only helps protect your liver and creation of gallstones but also help with better digestion.
Do you like seaweeds? Bladderwrack is a seaweed that’s also helpful with your digestion.
Check out my article about bladderwrack’s health benefits here.
3. Blessed Thistle Has Diuretic Properties
Blessed thistle is said to have diuretic effects.
This means that it can stimulate the production and flow of urine out of the body.
This effect can help in detoxifying your body as it promotes the release of water waste that may include toxins out of your body.
It can also help treat urinary tract infections.
4. May Assist In Protecting Your Liver
Blessed thistle is traditionally used together with other herbs to detoxify the body and cleanse the liver.
This can be traced to its ability in stimulating the production of bile.
5. Blessed Thistle Has Astringent Properties
Because a blessed thistle has astringent effects, it can help slow down or even stop excessive bleeding.
It’s been used as a natural remedy for boils, skin ulcers, and wounds.
6. May Help During The Menstrual Period
Several anecdotal claims will tell you that consuming blessed thistle reduces or treats different annoying symptoms every menstrual cycle.
It can help with cramps, headaches, and menstrual cramps.
7. Blessed Thistle Is A Natural Remedy For Coughs
There are many anecdotal claims about using blessed thistle to treat coughs.
They say that this herb is a good expectorant.
It means that it helps loosen the mucus to make it easier for you to excrete or remove them.
8. May Enhance Your Skin’s Health
The different qualities of blessed thistle are great for having healthy skin.
It has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that deal with infections and skin disorders caused by inflammations.
Furthermore, this herb contains antioxidants that can prevent oxidative damage to the cells of your skin to prevent premature aging like black spots and wrinkles.
Its poultice is even used to treat minor cuts and wounds.
9. Blessed Thistle Contains Antioxidants
There are articles online that suggest blessed thistle to have an antioxidant activity just like the other herbs.
This helps fight free radicals that can cause oxidative damage to the cells of your organs.
Excessive damage can lead to different chronic diseases.
10. Has Anti-inflammatory Properties
Chronic inflammations can cause different kinds of serious diseases like cancer, dementia, and heart diseases.
It wouldn’t hurt if you add anti-inflammatory foods to your diet.
Blessed thistle is another option that you can consider.
This can also be helpful with other inflammations like arthritis and inflammatory bowel conditions.
Conclusion
These are the different health benefits of blessed thistle.
I only heard of blessed thistle in supplements just like milk thistle.
I don’t think I’ve seen the actual plant yet but it’s still good to know what it can bring you.
Since it has anti-inflammatory properties, this is my easy pick for the best health benefit of blessed thistle on the list.
How about you?
Just like me who’s unfamiliar with blessed thistle, please discuss it first with your doctor or medical professional if you can consume or use it.
If you think that knowing about blessed thistle’s health benefits is valuable, please share this article with your family and friends.
Thank you!