Botanical name: cnicus benedictus

Common names: Holy Thistle, Saint Benedict thistle, spotted thistle, bitter thistle, blessed cardus

Warning: Not for use during pregnancy. Persons with allergies to other members of the Asteraceae family (such as feverfew, chamomile, or Echinacea species) should exercise caution with Blessed Thistle as allergic cross-reactivity to Asteraceae plants is common.

Blessed thistle was used in Ayruvedic and traditional European herbalism. It's often used as a digestive stimulant, to increase appetite, and as a nutritive tonic. Its bitter flavor is commonly used in extracts and cordials.