Blessed Thistle
Botanical Name: Cnicus benedictus
Family Name: Asteraceae
Plant Description: Spiny plant with yellow flowers and hairy stems
Ecosystem: Dry fields, disturbed soils
Size: Up to 60 cm
Shape: Low-growing with broad, spiny leaves
Geographical Origin: Mediterranean
Current Distribution: Europe, North America
Flower Shapes and Colours: Yellow thistle-like flower heads
Seed Types and Size: Small seeds with tufts
Uses: Digestive aid, liver tonic
Parts Used: Leaves, flowering tops
Medicinal Uses: Stimulates appetite and bile flow
Planetary Influences: Mars
Metaphysical Uses: Protection, endurance
Elemental Association: Fire