The Witch’s Cupboard

Blessed Thistle

Blessed Thistle (Carduus Benedictus) is also known as Holy Thistle, Holy Ghost Herb, Saint Benedict Thistle, Spotted Thistly and Cardin.   It is known as a “heal all” herb.  Blessed Thistle is an annual and it is native to the Mediterranean region and Asia but now can be found in Europe and the United States.

In ancient times, Blessed Thistle was known to cure many ailments, including the plague.  Currently, it is used to help with upset stomach.  Be very careful of using the herb in large quantities because it can induce vomiting.  It is also known to help with mothers producing breast milk.

Blessed Thistle is also was known as aphrodisiac, especially in men.  It is associated with Mars and Pan so it helps to increase sexual desire and awareness so it is a good use in Sex Magick.  It can be thrown in fire as an offering or used as incense.  It also can be used for invocation for the trickster Gods as Pan and Loki.

The Blessed Thistle Herb is very good with ritual bathing for purification.  As a combination with other “blessed” or “holy” herbs, sprinkle Blessed Thistle around your area for protection.   It is also known to help with learning men’s mysteries, especially for priests.

To help with dispelling negative energy and to break Hexes, use Blessed Thistle.  Mix it with Angelica and Basil to bring divine assistance and protection to your home.   Also, sprinkling Blessed Thistle across doorways and thresholds helps to protect the home.

Also, it can be used to bring spirits closer.  Boil it and then place it in a bowl and sit next to it.  Start meditating.  As the steam rises, your questions and spirits answers can be heard.
Blessed Thistle can be used in many ways for healing but remember, this is not a substitution for medical advice so always check with a medical professional to make sure working with herbs or oils are safe for you.

Keywords for Blessed Thistle

Magickal Uses/Spells:  Hex Breaking, Protection, Fertility, Purification, Healing, Happiness, Joy, Lifting Depression
Deities:  Pan
Planet:  Mars
Sign:  Aries
Gender:  Masculine
Element:  Fire
Tarot Correspondence:  Emperor Card, Page Cards of Any Suit