The Flower of Disteln (Thistle)

When we talk about doing research on any interesting plant, we find countless beautiful and attractive plants with variety of flowers in countless colors but the plant, which we have selected today, is none other than beauty of Germany “Disteln” also known as “Thistle” in many parts of the world. The flower of Thistle (Disteln) is mostly found in pretty purple or blue which is itself an eye-catching attraction for human being who is passing through the route. Moreover, the plant’s prickly stem along with branches invade almost every heart.

Thistle is considered as an important habitat and source of food for native fauna as the nectar released by Thistle plays an important role in providing food sources to the surrounding bees, butterflies and some insects. It also provides service to the beautiful birds who come and sit on these flowers for a while before their long journeys.

As the name of the flower, Disteln (Thistle) indicates that it is associated with aggressiveness, guard and pride due to its rough exterior. Some literature people also connects this flower with symbolism of intelligence, cleverness and silent protector.

When we search books of history, we find that many cultures have associated some tales and stories with this flower. In French Literature, Thistle is represented as a weapon against witches and antagonism, as this flower is considered as an icon of sun who save living things around it from any kind of destruction.

We find another famous example of Thistle from Scottish World as this flower is given the status of National Flower in Scotland due to its great service back in fifteenth century, when Normans entered Scotland to invade the land but they were unfamiliar about the characteristics of Thistle. Normans did not expect that Thistle would create so much hurdle due to which Scottish Army woke up and defended themselves.

In this way, Thistle created history and many authors have complimented this flower in their poems and prose. The color of the flower is connected with the Rugby uniform of Scotland to represent their courage and fearless attitude.

DISTELN (THISTLE) THROUGH THE EYES OF ALEXANDRA BERGHOFER

This flower has its own color and taste in Germany. According to the German researcher Alexandra Berghofer:

“In Germany, this beautiful flower is found mostly in Purple color in the area of Montpellier. Moreover, the beautiful combination of colors of Disteln found in Germany has its own attraction. Colorful insects sitting on the purple flower gives a multi-color combination to flower and sometimes these insects look like a part of the flower.”

“This natural look turns entire location into an irresistible attraction for the people who are travelling from this place and provides them a relaxing atmosphere. Here, Disteln is considered as a sign of peace and care. This flower also provides platform for butterflies, flies and some birds to increase natural beauty to the environment. I find myself lucky to be living around such a beautiful place.

When we talk about medical or herbal benefits of this flower, many people claim that Milk Thistle is sometimes used as a natural treatment for liver problems. Some people also claim that it is beneficial for lowering the cholesterol level. Some studies show that it is good for healing people with alcohol related liver diseases. At this point, we do not have enough scientific data to claim that how much milk thistle is effective in solving the diseases medically. Only doctors and scientists can confirm it.”

All in all, it can be concluded that Disteln is serving humanity since ages through its colors, beauty, attractive imagery and herbal benefits.