Active Ingredient Blessed Thistle (cnicus Benedictus L.)

blessed thistle leaves, stems, and flowers have traditionally been used in "bitter" tonic drinks and in other preparations taken by mouth to enhance appetite and digestion. blessed thistle may also be included in the unproven anti-cancer herbal remedy essiac . this herb has been tested in laboratory studies for its properties against infections, cancer, and inflammation with promising results. however, high-quality trials showing benefits in humans are lacking.

Source:

medlineplus herbs and supplements: blessed thistle (cnicus benedictus l.)

Medical Condition	Uses based on scientific evidence	Grade*
bacterial infection unspecified in conditions classified elsewhere and of unspecified site	laboratory studies report that blessed thistle (and chemicals in blessed thistle such as cnicin and polyacetylene) has activity against several types of bacteria and no effects on some types. reliable human study is lacking. further evidence is necessary in this area before a firm conclusion can be drawn.	c
flatulence eructation and gas pain	blessed thistle is traditionally believed to stimulate stomach acid secretion and has been used as a treatment for indigestion or gas. however, there is limited scientific study in these areas. additional research is needed before a firm conclusion can be reached.	c
unspecified viral infection	laboratory studies report no activity of blessed thistle against herpes viruses, influenza, or poliovirus. effects of blessed thistle (or chemicals in blessed thistle called lignans) against hiv are not clear. human research of blessed thistle as a treatment for viral infections is lacking.	c

*Key to grades
A: Strong scientific evidence for this use;
B: Good scientific evidence for this use;
C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use;
D: Fair scientific evidence against this use;
F: Strong scientific evidence against this use.