Journal

Blessed Thistle

July 2, 2026 · Omnia Sana
Cnicus benedictus
Family: Asteraceae  ·  Parts used: Aerial parts (flowering herb)  ·  Also known as: Holy thistle, St Benedict's thistle, Spotted thistle

Key actions

Anti-inflammatoryAntimicrobialAppetite stimulantBitter digestive tonic / stomachicDigestive aidGalactagogue (supports lactation)

Traditional & clinical uses, by strength of evidence

  • Loss of appetiteTraditional
  • Arthritis / joint painTraditional
  • BloatingTraditional
  • IndigestionTraditional
  • Infection (general)Traditional
  • Inflammation (general)Traditional
  • Lactation supportTraditional
  • Skin irritationTraditional
  • WoundsTraditional

Selected studies & references

ReviewEfficacy and Mechanisms of Silybum marianum, Silymarin, and Silibinin on Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis Symptoms: A Systematic Review (2024)
ReviewThe efficacy of novel metabolic targeted agents and natural plant drugs for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease treatment: A PRISMA-compliant network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (2021)
ReviewHealth Benefits of Silybum marianum: Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, and Applications (2020)
ReviewThe food plant Silybum marianum (L.) Gaertn.: Phytochemistry, Ethnopharmacology and clinical evidence (2020)
ReviewMilk thistle (Silybum marianum): A concise overview on its chemistry, pharmacological, and nutraceutical uses in liver diseases (2018)
ReviewSilybum marianum (milk thistle) and its main constituent, silymarin, as a potential therapeutic plant in metabolic syndrome: A review (2018)
ReviewThe effects of silymarin supplementation on metabolic status and oxidative stress in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials (2018)
ReviewRecent advances in the analysis of flavonolignans of Silybum marianum (2016)

All 29 studies in the Knowledge Finder →

Educational use only. This profile summarises traditional and scientific sources for reference. It is not medical advice and not a substitute for a qualified practitioner. Some plants carry safety cautions and drug interactions — always check before use.

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