Blessed Thistle is believed to have gotten its name for its amazing reputation for healing all kinds of health conditions. This natural warrior plant is not only edible; it is also an incredible food for survival. The bitter herb is more likely to grow in damaged environments as it helps to keep humans and animals alive while the environment heals. Its medicinal components are mainly connected to the liver –the organ that protects the bloodstream from toxins.
Blessed Thistle has proven to be a wonderful tonic for the body as it contains a host of medicinal benefits. It has a wide range of therapeutic properties, including astringent, diuretic, antimicrobial, emetic, vermifuge, diaphoretic, galactagogue, and emmenagogue properties. The health benefits of Blessed Thistle include its ability to treat arthritis, dysmenorrheal, jaundice, and fevers as well as naturally improve milk production.
Blessed Thistle also contains essential nutrients like calcium, manganese, potassium as well as antioxidants such as plant lignans and flavonoids.
Now, let’s take a closer look at the health benefits of Blessed Thistle.
Boosts Milk Supply
A lot of mothers will rather give their babies natural milk than feeding them with formula milk. But unfortunately, not every mother is able to produce enough milk to properly feed their babies. Thankfully, Blessed Thistle is one of the many natural remedies that contain emmenagogue properties that help stimulate the production as well as the quality of breast milk.
In fact, according to some studies, Blessed Thistle is often used as an herbal galactagogue. Okay, in case you didn’t know, a galactagogue is simply a food, herb, or medication that improves the flow of breast milk. Usually, it does this by increasing prolactin levels.
However, it is advisable to consult with a doctor before taking Blessed Thistle or any other herbal remedy, especially as there is no research into its safety.
Diuretic Properties
You must already know that a diuretic is a substance that helps stimulate urine production and increase the flow and frequency of urination. Medications containing diuretic properties are commonly prescribed for certain illnesses associated with the kidney as well as urinary tract infections. Fortunately, Blessed Thistle is one of the many natural diuretics that can be used as a good alternative to conventional medications.
Antimicrobial Properties
Blessed Thistle is also effective in helping the body fight off dangerous bacteria and microbes. It possesses two potent chemical compounds known as cnicin and polyacetalyne which have proven to be effective against a wide range of dangerous bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, and E. Coli.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Inflammation is arguably the most common reason for the majority of health conditions, including chronic problems such as dementia, heart disease, and cancer. This is why plenty of anti-inflammatory foods or herbs like Blessed Thistle should be incorporated into our diet to help lower the risk of developing any of these diseases.
Aids in Digestion
One of the most popular benefits of Blessed Thistle over the years is its function as a digestive tonic. Blessed Thistle greatly aids in digestion and can help in the treatment of a host of common stomach issues. There are people who drink Blessed Thistle in the form of a tea to prevent constipation, bloating and gas.
As a matter of fact, Blessed Thistle is also used to boost appetite, especially for people who struggle to eat after a bout of illness or surgery.
Blessed Thistle contains cholagogue properties which help to stimulate the production of bile in the body. It also contains a compound called cinincin which is effective in stimulating the body’s production of saliva and gastric juice. The stimulation of these fluids helps the body properly digest food and helps you eat more effectively. Apart from aiding in digestion, Blessed Thistle lowers the risk of gallstones and liver conditions.
Detoxifies the Liver
We all know how important detoxification is to the body, particularly the liver. Our diet and lifestyle are largely responsible for the amount of strain on our livers as the liver’s health is absolutely essential to our overall health. In fact, Blessed Thistle is one of the ingredients used in preparing many herbal formulas for cleansing the liver.
Due to its ability to stimulate bile production, Blessed Thistle is an amazing natural liver detox and can also treat jaundice.
Treats Coughs
Blessed Thistle is reputed for its role as an expectorant. It helps to loosen mucus and eases a cough. However, it is important to note that there aren’t any studies confirming its ability as an expectorant.
Relieves Menstruation Cramps
Sadly, so many women suffer from certain painful symptoms monthly as they go through their menstrual cycle. Thankfully, Blessed Thistle is believed to help women in so many ways. It has been proven that Blessed Thistle can help to alleviate some of the symptoms associated with monthly cycle, including brain fog, headaches, as well as cramps.
Benefits the Skin
Blessed Thistle contains antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties that can keep the skin healthy. The herb also has certain antioxidants that help keep the skin looking radiant and young. Its astringent properties can help tighten the skin as well.
Side Effects and Precautions of Blessed Thistle
Generally, Blessed Thistle is considered safe for most adults if it is taken in the right doses. Here are some precautions that you should know about.
- It may not be safe for children.
- Pregnant women should steer clear of the herb.
- Although Blessed Thistle helps to stimulate lactation, breastfeeding mothers should consult with their doctor before using the herb.
- When taken in particularly large doses, Blessed Thistle can result in stomach irritation.
- People who suffer from IBS or ulcers should use the herb with caution as it may further irritate the stomach.
- Since Blessed Thistle increases the production of stomach acid, it may interfere with prescribed medication for reducing acid.
The Bottom Line
Blessed Thistle is considered a potent herbal remedy for its ability to prevent indigestion and boost milk production. However, there is limited research regarding its safety, so it is advisable to use the herb with caution.
