A prickly, rounded bush with a height of 2 feet and a width of 1.5 feet. The leaves are prickly with pale veins, deeply indented with veins and surrounded by sharp, 1-inch spines.

Blessed thistle has been used as a treatment for liver disorder, as well as menstrual problems. It seems to detoxify the liver. In many European countries, blessed thistle tablets are prescribed along with acetaminophen or aspirin to counterbalance the potential liver damage these drugs can cause. Many women take blessed thistle to regulate their periods.