DR. WALKER

Chickweed

What is Chickweed?

Chickweed (Stellaria media) is a common flowering weed from the Caryophyllaceae family native to Europe, cultivated and self-grown. It is a low-growing plant characterized by unique star-shaped flowers, hairy stems, oval-shaped leaves. .1 Chickweed grows in almost all parts of the world. Chickweed naturally occurs in a variety of habitats and soils. Chickweed's leaves, flowers, and stems constitute the edible parts. The leaves are used in making sandwiches, raw salads and can be tossed in soups and stews. The stems and flowers are usually added when cooking a dish. 2 Chickweed is also known as Starwort, star weed, chicken wort, mouse-ear, winter weed.

What is Chickweed useful for?

In ancient times, Chickweed's dried leaves were used as a folk medicine for treating various illnesses and significant benefits in the heath of an individual such as; inflammation, conjunctivitis, blood disorders, and various skin ailments, obesity, and asthma. Chickweed is used externally for the treatment of rashes and body sores. It is also useful as a demulcent. Its edible young shoots are used as salad greens. Additionally, Chickweed is used in homoeopathy in the relief of psoriasis and rheumatic pain.³

Chickweed contains Saponins, which aid in anti-inflammatory diseases. The flavonoids induce the production of the phase-II enzymes in the body, increasing the harmful carcinogens' elimination. It can be used in salad dressings.

Health benefits:

• It serves as a diuretic, thus aiding in weight loss.
• Relieves respiratory ailments by soothing mucus membranes hence used to treat allergies, bronchitis, and asthma.
• Treats and Pacifies irritated and inflamed skin.
• Treats conditions such as rashes, acne, burns, and eczema.
• The vitamin C in Chickweed Prevents scurvy.
• Prevents constipation by easing bowel movement.

Nutrition:

Chickweed contains a variety of minerals and vitamins. For one serving,

• Carbohydrates- 15g
• Fats-1g
• Protein-6g
• Vitamin A-4%
• Iron- 33%

Toxicity:

Eaten in excess, the saponins and the nitrate salts are toxic and may cause nauseous feelings, vomiting, diarrhoea, dizziness, and stomach pains. Some people experience a mild rash, especially if they are allergic to the daisy family.

References