The cardo-santo, also known as bento thistle or blessed thistle, is a medicinal plant that can be used to assist in the treatment of digestive and hepatic problems, and can be considered a great home remedy.
Its scientific name is Carduus benedictus and can be bought in natural products stores, handling pharmacies and in some free trade shows.
What is the thistle used for?
The cardo-santo can be used for several purposes, as it has several properties, such as antiseptic, healing, astringent, digestive, decongestant, stimulant, tonic, expectorant, diuretic and antimicrobial properties. Thus, holy thistle can be used to:
- Assist digestion;
- Combat stomach and intestinal gas;
- Improve liver function;
- Stimulate appetite;
- Favor healing of wounds;
- Helps in the treatment of infections, such as gonorrhea, for example.
In addition, thistle is useful in treating diarrhea, varicose veins, memory loss, headache, flu and colds, bloating, cystitis and cramps.
How to use the cardo-santo
The used parts of the thistle are the stems, leaves and flowers, and can be used to make teas, baths, or compresses, for example.
Thistle-saint tea should be made by placing 30 grams of the plant in 1 liter of water and boil for 10 minutes. Then let stand for 5 minutes, strain and drink 2 times a day after meals. As the plant has a very bitter taste, one can sweeten the tea with a little honey.
The compress and the seat bath are made in the same way and are indicated for treating wounds, hemorrhoids or infections.
Contraindications of thistle
The use of thistle should preferably be done according to the recommendation of the herbalist and is not indicated for women who are lactating, pregnant and children.
