Chickweed (Stellaria media) has been used as folk medicine for skin conditions such as psoriasis for centuries. The soothing application of the herb as a poultice, salve or cream still wins converts for those suffering from this mysterious disease. In "Herbal Medicine Materia Medica," David L. Hoffman says that chickweed "is commonly used as an external remedy for cuts, wounds and especially for itching and irritation. If eczema or psoriasis causes this sort of irritation, chickweed may be used with benefit."
Internally, chickweed can be taken as a nutritional supplement to take advantage of the high amounts of trace minerals and vitamins contained within the plant's leaves. A hundred grams of chickweed offer .52 mg of zinc and 7,229 IU of vitamin A, which both top the chart of nutrients recommended for treating psoriasis symptoms.
Chickweed Ointment
Chickweed is a popular ingredient in herbal moisturizers designed to ease skin irritation associated with psoriasis. Topical treatment for this disease includes creams, salves and ointments. Most herbal creams also include calendula and aloe to revitalize dry, red skin patches. Ointments that include vitamin D along with chickweed are even more effective.
Chickweed Tea
Chickweed brewed into a tea doubles this herb's medicinal applications. The hot tea works internally to rush nutrition through the body for healing purposes. Since psoriasis tends to flare up in times of stress, a nutritious cup of mild tea also serves to relax the mind so the body can mend.
A clean cloth can be soaked in the cooled tea and applied to areas inflamed by psoriasis's telltale lesions. Be certain to follow up the external tea treatment with a lubricating skin cream.
Chickweed Tincture
Psoriasis can be relieved from the inside out with the use of an alcohol-based tincture. This remedy is a concentrated form of the herb. It is available in standardized and traditional concentrations. The tincture serves to ease both digestive and skin problems, which surface during an outbreak of psoriasis. This form of medicine may not be an appropriate choice for children or patients who are sensitive to alcohol.
Chickweed as Food
Chickweed is often available in healthy garden soil in the early spring. It was introduced to North America as a salad green but fell out of favor in the mid-twentieth century due to its short shelf life in grocery stores. Gardeners know this weed well. It is used as an alfalfa sprout substitute in sandwiches and salads and offers a fresh flavor and nutrition to keep the skin healthy.
Chickweed in the Bath
The inflammation of psoriasis is often brought on by stress. A mildly warm bath can give relief to the mind and body. Tie chickweed into a muslin square and allow it to soak in the bath water. The cloth can also serve as a swab to bring comfort to dry areas. Combine chickweed with rolled oats for extra skin treatment.
References
- "Nutritional Herbology: A Reference Guide to Herbs"; Mark Pedersen; 1998
- "The American Pharmaceutical Association's Practical Guide to Natural Medicine"; Andrea Pierce; 1999
- Mayo Clinic: Psoriasis
- National Psoriasis Foundation
- Healthy (Herbal Medicine Materia Medica): Chickweed
