Chickweed, or Stellaria media, is an herb that is rich in nutrients such as mucilage, saponins, coumarins, silica, flavonoids, copper, iron and vitamins A, B and C. Due to its superior nutrient constitution, chickweed has been used medicinally for years to help various ailments such as indigestion, asthma, eczema, psoriasis and ulcers. Chickweed comes in tincture, capsule, tea, powder and cream forms. Speak with a health care professional before using chickweed to treat any condition.
Skin Infections and Irritations
Chickweed, with its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, is perfect for treating various skin conditions and irritations. According to the University of Michigan Health System, chickweed can relieve itching and dryness as well as the inflammation often associated with rashes and skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Chickweed may draw out the pus and heal the infection of boils and abscesses, and it has the power to relieve insect bites, stings and burns. The herb has been known to to speed up the healing process of bruises, wounds and cuts as well as heal hemorrhoids, diaper rash and skin ulcers.
Respiratory Conditions
Chickweed is an expectorant and is often used as a natural way to treat respiratory conditions such as asthma, congestion and bronchitis. While respiratory conditions often compromise the ability to breathe because of the narrowing of the respiratory tract, drinking chickweed tea may open up the trachea, allowing those who are suffering from asthma and other respiratory conditions to breathe more efficiently. MamaHerb.com recommends that you drink chickweed tea three times a day for a month to relieve respiratory symptoms.
Internal Aid
Chickweed can also act as an internal aid, soothing the digestive system, kidneys, bladder, urinary tract, and bowels. It acts as a natural laxative to relieve constipation and can treat stomach ulcers by reducing the inflammation. Its antirheumatic properties which reduce acidity in the body can ease arthritis and joint pain. Chickweed can also be helpful in healing minor urinary tract infections and cleaning and purifying the blood by acting as a diuretic. Although no known side effects have been found for chickweed, you should always consult a physician before using it for any condition.
References
- Vitamin and Health Supplement Guide: Chickweed
- University of Michigan Health System: Chickweed
- MamaHerb: Asthma Home Remedy Using Chick weed Read more at http://www.mamaherb.com/View/View.aspx?name=asthma-home-remedy-using-chick-weed&ktrack=kcplink
- Health Care: Uses of Chickweed Some - Interactions occuring with Chickweed
- Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association: Chickweed: A Delicious and Nutritious ... Weed
- Washington State University: Common Chickweed
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