The only plant in the Cnicus genus, sometimes classified ’as Carduus benedicts. It is an annual with hairy, branched stems, spiny grey-green leaves and solitary yellow flowers set in prickly bracts.
History and traditions
It is known as Holy or Blessed Thistle for much the same reasons as the Carline Thistle (Carlina acaulis) is named after Charlemagne it was all down to visions of this plant as a cure for plague. Considering that it does have antiseptic and antibiotic properties, this may not be as far-fetched as it sounds. One writer of a dissertation on treating plague with this thistle said, “| counsel all that have gardens to nourish it, that they may have it always to their own use, and the use of their neighbors that lacked it.”
Growth
A wild plant, it grows in any ordinary soil, is easily propagated by seed, and self-seeds. Cultivated commercially in Europe for the pharmaceutical industry.
Uses
Medicinal
A very bitter herb with antiseptic, antibiotic properties. Taken in the form of an infusion as a tonic and to stimulate the appetite. It was traditionally used for fevers and is said to be helpful for nursing mothers to improve the supply of milk.
Culinary
All parts of the plant are edible and have been eaten cooked or in salads.
