Milk thistle, also known as Eryngium planum, is a beautiful and unique plant native to Europe and Asia. This perennial plant is also often called "blue thistle" because of its distinctive blue flowers, which bloom during the summer months. Pink thistle is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of environments and has a number of medicinal properties.
Where it grows
Pink thistle usually grows in dry, rocky areas such as hillsides, meadows, and pastures. It is also often found in disturbed areas such as roadsides, vacant lots and abandoned fields. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun, but can tolerate some shade. The plant is native to Europe and Asia, but has been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America.
When to harvest
Pink thistle is best harvested in late summer, when the flowers are in full bloom. Leaves and stems can also be harvested at this time, but the flowers are most often used. To pick the flowers, cut the stems just below the flower heads and let them dry in a warm, well-ventilated place.
What ailments it helps for.
Pink thistle has a number of medicinal properties and has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments. One of the most notable health benefits of milk thistle is its ability to help with digestive problems. The plant contains compounds that stimulate the production of digestive juices and enzymes, which helps improve digestion and alleviate symptoms such as bloating, gas and constipation.
Milk thistle is also thought to have anti-inflammatory properties and can be used to treat conditions such as arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. The plant contains compounds that help reduce inflammation in the body, which can help relieve pain and swelling.
In addition, milk thistle is used to treat a number of other conditions, including respiratory problems, liver disease and skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. The plant contains compounds that help detoxify the liver and improve liver function, which can be helpful for people with liver disease. It also has antibacterial and antifungal properties, which can be helpful in treating skin conditions.
What part of the plant is used
The most commonly used part of the milk thistle plant is the flowers, which are used to make teas, tinctures and other herbal remedies. Leaves and stems can also be used, but they are not as widely used as the flowers.
To make milk thistle tea, dried flowers are steeped in hot water for a few minutes. The tea can be drunk several times a day to help with digestive problems, inflammation, and other health problems.
How to brew or infuse
To make milk thistle tea, start by boiling water in a kettle or on the stove. Once the water is boiling, take it off the heat and let it cool slightly. Place the dried milk thistle flowers in a teapot or tea bag and place in a mug. Pour hot water over the flowers and let them infuse for 5-10 minutes, depending on how strong you like your tea. Remove the tincture or tea bag and enjoy your milk thistle tea.
Milk thistle tea can be drunk on its own or mixed with other herbs and spices to create a unique flavor profile. It can be sweetened with honey or other natural sweeteners if desired.
In addition to tea, milk thistle can be used to make a tincture and other herbal remedies. To prepare a tincture, dried flowers are insisted in alcohol or vodka for several weeks to extract useful compounds. The resulting tincture can be taken internally or used topically.
