Scientific Name: Centaurea Benedicta
Origin: Europe
AKA: Holy Thistle, Saint Benedict Thistle, Spotted Thistle, Cardin, Bitter Thistle, Blessed Cardus
Parts Used: Leaves, Stems and Flowers
Active Compounds: Sesquiterpene Lactones, such as Cnicin.
Description: Blessed thistle is native to Europe and Asia but is now cultivated all over the world. It is an annual herb which reaches a height of 2 feet. It features a brown, hairy stem with spiny, lance shaped leaves. The plant produces yellow flowers which appear from late spring through late summer.
Safety: Blessed thistle is fairly safe and free from side effects although anyone with allergies to plants in the daisy family should avoid its use. Blessed thistle tea may cause nausea and vomiting if made too strongly.
More Bulk Herbs and Spices Information:
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Bladderwrack
Blessed thistle
For educational purposes only
This Blessed Thistle information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.