i was to excited on my walk yesterday when i found chickweed (Stellaria media) and shepherd's purse (Capsella bursa-pastoris). funny - same walk i have done for years - but my eyes were open this time.
chickweed - known for it's ability to cool inflammation and speed healing of cuts, minor burns, eczema, and rashes. it is mild diuretic, promoting the flow of urine - can cleanse and soothe the kidneys and urinary tract and help relieve cystitis. it is edible and very nutritious. it contains vitamins a, c, d and b complex. it is high in iron, copper, silica, manganese, phosphorus and zinc. it aids the absorption of nutrients in the body and is good for digestive problems.
i am going back today to harvest some of it and i will make a chickweed vinegar. i fill a jar with the herb, cover it with organic pasteurized apple cider vinegar and let it sit for 6 weeks. then strain the herb out. do not use metal lids when making vinegars - the vinegar will rust the metal and the rust will get into your vinegar. i will use the vinegar for salad dressing to get extra vitamins and minerals.
shepherd's purse - one of the important herbs for stopping hemorrhages of all kinds - of the stomach, lungs, uterus, and bleeding from the kidneys. it is used for a number of number of condidtions such as heavy menstrual bleeding, nosebleeds, and as a post-partum herb.
i remember this plant from when i was little - i always loved its little heart shaped leaves :)
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