I am very sorry for your loss.  I too hope you find peace.

In answer to your question about Blessed Thistle, I have a book that can
give you some insight about the herb but there is no data on embolism.
According to "Herbs As Medicine: What you should know", by Ruth M. DeBusk,
RD, PhD and Phillip R. Treadwell, PharmD.:

Blessed Thistle

Facts Capsule:
Key indications (what it is used for): Poor appetite, indigestion
Dosage: 4-6 grams/cups/day; excessive use not advised
Side effects: Contraindicated in pregnancy and lactation
Potential Herb/Drug Interactions: None known
Potential Herb/Health Interactions: Blessed Thistle is a member of the
daisy/sunflower (Asteraceae) family and may cause an allergic reaction in
those hypersensitive to members of this botanical family.
Potential Herb/Food Dietary Supplement Interactions: None known

AHPA's (American Herbal Products Association) Safety Classification System
(similar to the risk categories for pregnancy and lactation in Dr. Hale's
book) classifies this drug as a Class 2: Herbs for which the following use
restrictions apply, unless otherwise directed by an expert qualified in the
use of the described substance: (2b) Not to be used during pregnancy.

Pregnancy and lactation: Since the safety has not been established, blessed
thistle should not be used during pregnancy or lactation.

Dosage and Administration:
The German Commission E gives a mean daily dosage of 4-6 grams of herb.

AHPA review board concluded that doses greater than 5 grams/cup of tea may
irritate the stomach and cause vomiting.

Fenugreek

Class 2: Herbs for which the following use restrictions apply, unless
otherwise directed by an expert qualified in the use of the described
substance: (2b) Not to be used during pregnancy. Known to cause uterine
contractions.

They do not cite fenugreek as being contraindicated during lactation.

Marguerite Kelly, IBCLC

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