Chickweed Benefits

Common chickweed (Stellaria media) is by most people considered a troublesome weed. The fact is that is plant is actually a useful herb we can take advantage of. There are many chickweed benefits.

Chickweed is exceptionally hardy annual that is common throughout most regions of the world.

This plant has small white star like flowers and oval leaves. It grows to be about 15 cm (6 in) tall, sometimes up to 40 cm (15 in).

Chickweed has a tiny line of hair on one side of the stem. The line of hair switches to the other side of the stem every time it meets a pair of leaves.

When you break the stem you will notice that it does not contain any sap.

If you are concerned about the weather, chickweed does an excellent job as a weather forecaster.

The leaves and flowers open up fully when good weather is approaching. Likewise the leaves and flowers fold up shut when rain is on its way.

Chickweed got its name because poultry absolutely love this plant.

Pigs and rabbits also have a feast on chickweed. The strange thing is that sheep and goats do not appreciate chickweed.

Do not gather chickweed from any public places as parks and so on. You have no control over what pesticides may have been used in the area. You need to be sure the plant has not been exposed to any kind of chemical pollution.

Cooking Clickweed

Chickweed leaves can be used as a vegetable. Boil the leaves for about 3-5 minutes.

Cooked chickweed tastes similar to spinach.

The leaves can also be eaten raw. Use them in salads or in sandwiches. Raw it tastes sort of like corn.

Clickweed Health Benefits

Chickweed is a nutritious plant having vitamins A, B, C. It contains the minerals calcium, zinc, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium.

This herb is best known for its ability to assist in the healing process of any itchy skin conditions.

Chopped chickweed and chickweed juice is said to soothe discomforts of burns, rashes and insect stings.

Some claim that adding chickweed infusion to the bathwater will help reduce rheumatic pain.

Chickweed tea is great for people trying to lose weight. A cup of this tea a day will help you lose water weight.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women always need to consult their physician before considering any herbal treatment.

So you see, there are a lot of chickweed benefits. Be greatful for the chickweed!