Good day! I hope your week so far has been working in your favor! And if it hasn't then I hope your next week is much better. Today we have a plant that is known to ease digestive issues: Blessed Thistle, also known as Holy Thistle.
The Latin name for this plant is Centaurea benedicta. When I first looked up this plant, I kept seeing the name Cnicus benedictus listed as its official name, but it seems like that must have been the original name and I'm assuming it got changed to Centaurea benedicta as the official name at some point over the years. Don't quote me on that though! I couldn't find any articles that clearly stated why there are two official names for this plant.
I also noticed a lot of confusion between Blessed Thistle and Milk Thistle, two separate plants. The difference visually is: blessed thistle flowers appear yellow and red in color, whereas milk thistle flowers are a dark purplish pink color.
Blessed thistle is known to strengthen the immune system and work as an anti-inflammatory. The root, stem, leaves, and flowers of this plant are all used in tinctures or teas to gain its medicinal benefits. It is commonly taken for digestive problems, as it can reduce bloating and increase appetite. Another interesting use for this plant is to increase breast milk production for women who struggle with this issue. I read some information that said to not ingest blessed thistle WHILE pregnant, only after the birth if you're specifically looking for something to increase milk supply.
Have a magical day!
Jenny
PLANT INGESTION WARNING!
As with all herbs and plants you plan to ingest, never ingest them before doing your own research and/or talking with your doctor - it’s possible that medications you take or health conditions you have could have a negative effect if paired with blessed thistle. Better safe than sorry!
Photo credit goes to botanika.wendys.cz