Origin: Mexico

Botanical Name: Cnicus benedictus

Common Names: Holy Thistle

Available Forms: Raw Herb

Common Uses: The plant is edible and rich in a compound known as cnicin, which is believed to have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and anti-cancer properties. 

Generally Prepared: Blessed Thistle is most often prepared and applied as a tea, tincture or topical fomentation. As an example, 1-2 teaspoons of cut plant matter is added to 8 ounces of water for the tea. Steeped ten minutes.

A tincture is prepared with an alcohol solvent generally in a ratio of 1:3 (plant: solvent).

A fomentation of Blessed Thistle may also be prepared. Generally 3 tablespoons of the chopped plant per one pint of water. Heat and steep for one hour. Strain and cool. A sterile cloth is soaked in this solution then applied topically to the affected area.