In Bodrum, they say “There is thistle, if there is no meat at home”. This saying indicates how valuable a nutrient the thistle is. It is difficult to say the opposite as in the East and South East Anatolia, its seeds are eaten such as the roots and the stems; and they are also stored as winter food and coffee is made from the seeds.
Thistle, which begins to appear on market stalls in early February, has two types in Bodrum. One is called, “crazy”; the other one is called, “decent”. The crazy one is used for stuffing, it is also known as “camel thistle” as camels love its taste. The decent one is known as shevket-i bostan especially in Izmir.
With its purple flowers and thorns, this delicious natural herb can be found in the hills and the mountains of Bodrum. Thistle is a pilous, awned, milky and perennial plant from the chamomile family, which can grow to 70-80 centimetres. It is also known as a masticatory herb and gum is produced using its roots.
It is a cramp remedy and is also said to be useful to prevent migraines. It is good for the digestive system; strengthens the nerves and cleanses the blood; helps prevent embolism.
Thistle chewing gum cleans and strengthens the teeth.
The miracle herb is also recommended as a cure against liver fattening.