BLESSED THISTLE
Blessed thistle is a very useful herb for women. Blessed thistle can be taken to relieve painful periods, and for menstrual headaches. As an emmenagogue, blessed thistle will help bring on suppressed periods. Blessed thistle can be helpful during problems with the menopause, such as heavy bleeding. The bitters in blessed thistle enhance the appetite and aid digestion, while stimulating the liver and the flow of bile. Blessed thistle is a good remedy for anorexia, indigestion, gas, colic and any condition associated with a sluggish liver such as headaches, lethargy and irritability. Its astringent action is useful for treating diarrhea. The bitters have been shown to have an antimicrobial action, useful for enhancing the function of the immune system. Blessed thistle has also been shown to hinder the formation of abnormal cells, which makes it useful in cancer treatment. Blessed thistle also has diuretic properties and when taken in hot infusion is a useful diaphoretic for fevers and an expectorant for chest problems. Blessed thistle can be used to stop bleeding from cuts, and speed healing of wounds. Blesses thistle also acts as an antiseptic. Blessed thistle is one of the best medicines for promoting breast milk in nursing mothers. To make a tea for this and also improve the heart, just bring 1 pint of water to a boil. Remove from heat and add 1-1/2 level tablespoons of cut, dried herb. Let steep for 45 minutes. Strain and drink warm, 1 cup at a time about half an hour before nursing an infant. Or for convenience, a mother may wish to take the herb in the powdered form, 2 capsules three times daily during the nursing period. CAUTION: Do not use during pregnancy.
|
