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Origins
The purple star thistle originated in Asia Minor around the Black and Caspian seas. The star thistle plant was brought over to the United States in the early 20th century, and is considered an invasive plant, which can be harmful to native plants and gardens. The purple thistle grows in grassy areas with heavy soils, such as those found near seas and water. In the United States, the purple star thistle grows best in California and other temperate coastal regions.
Kidney Stones
In the past, purple star thistle was ground up and used as a cure for kidney stones. According to Health Daily Info, the thistle was supposed to reduce inflammation of the stones, dissolve the stones into smaller pieces and increase urination. The thistle came in capsule form, or you could boil the whole plant in water for several hours and then drink the mixture. The thistle remedy was not intended to be taken with food.
Honey
Most people see the purple star thistle as a weed and a troublesome, invasive plant. However, the thistle makes a sweet honey that is very desirable. Beekeepers love the presence of purple star thistle in their honeys, and many beekeepers grow purple star thistle for their bees. The honey produced with the thistle flowers has an unusual and mild taste that is ideal as a natural sweetener. You can even make a sweet drink by placing a small amount of honey into hot water.
Fistula
Fistula is a condition where there are holes between or in connecting organs where there should be none, such as in the ears, intestines or sinuses. Fistulas can also occur in blood vessels. Typically, fistula is a rare, diseased condition. According to Botanical.com, purple star thistle root was ground up and eaten to help cure fistula, as an ancient medicinal remedy. However, using thistle in this manner is no longer recommended with modern science advances.