Cnicus benedictus, commonly known as blessed thistle, is a flowering plant in the Asteraceae family. It is native to the Mediterranean region but has spread to other parts of the world. The plant typically grows to about 30-100 cm tall and features spiny leaves and yellow flowers that bloom in summer. Blessed thistle has a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly for digestive issues and as an appetite stimulant. It is often used in herbal remedies and can be found in various forms, including teas and tinctures. However, scientific evidence supporting its health benefits is limited.