They inhibit CoQ10 synthesis along with cholesterol synthesis, which significantly reduces CoQ10 blood levels. A recent study documented increased oxidation of LDL cholesterol after six weeks of lovastatin therapy, believed to result from lower CoQ10 levels. Thistles have to protect themselves because they are very nutritious. All species of thistles are edible, but eating them is a challenge. When I harvest a thistle stock to munch on, I chop down the stem and carefully peel the prickles off.
Some species are better than others.
In spite of their edibility, thistles aren t much appreciated. As any farmer or gardener who s experienced them knows, thistles are hard to get rid of. They resist chemical poisoning and are even difficult to dig up. So, thistle is a hearty plant and has a strong protective medicine. It is also known as St. Mary s Thistle, the white veins being associated with the breast milk of the virgin mother.