Chickweed is a little-known herb that is a delicate perennial with edible leaves. Chickweed has been touted as a natural and valuable aid to weight loss, but most of these claims are unfounded. If you are considering using chickweed, consult your physician first.
Chickweed Background
Chickweed (Stellaria media), also known as Starweed, grows in most countries. According to Botaincal.com, it has been used historically in herbal medicine for the treatment of inflammation, ulcers and digestive disorders.
Chemical Composition of Chickweed
According to Online Healthcare, most of the active chemical compounds in chickweed are unknown. However, it is known to contain vitamins A and C, calcium, iron, some B complex vitamins, coumarin, saponins and nitrate salts.
Chickweed for Weight Loss
Numerous websites tout chickweed as being beneficial for weight loss. Some of them maintain that chickweed helps with the breakdown and metabolism of fat molecules, while others claim that chickweed is an appetite suppressant. Studies, however, have not confirmed those claims. The best way to lose weight is to exercise regularly and maintain a balanced diet.
False Weight Loss Claims
According to Common Health, a health site maintained by the state of Virginia, several nutritionists and herbal supplement manufacturers claim that an array of herbal products can help with you lose weight. When referring to a number of supplements including chickweed, Common Health explains: "These products claim to help break down fat so that it can be absorbed, emulsified, trapped, and eliminated by the body. There is currently no competent and reliable scientific research to support such claims."
Warnings
Herbal chickweed should not be used if you are pregnant or breast-feeding because the effects are not known. No contraindications or side effects are known from taking herbal chickweed. You should consult a physician before taking a chickweed supplement, tea or using topical ointment.
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