Blessed thistle has been used since medieval times as a bitter tonic for digestive complaints and as a galactagogue (milk-production promoter) in nursing mothers. Its cnicin content provides bitter stimulation to bile flow and digestive secretions, making it valuable for indigestion, poor appetite, and liver congestion. It also has demonstrated antimicrobial activity against certain pathogens.
aerial parts, seed
tea, tincture, capsule
1–2 tsp dried herb steeped 10 min, 3× daily; 20–30 drops tincture 3× daily
Avoid in pregnancy (historically used as an abortifacient in large doses). May cause allergic reactions in people sensitive to the Asteraceae family. Use standard doses only.
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