Chickweed | Stellaria media

Chickweed is a soothing herb valued for calming skin irritation, supporting urinary health, and easing inflammation. It is also highly nutritious and traditionally used as a gentle tonic.

Chickweed (Stellaria media) with small white star-shaped flowers and trailing green stems, a traditional herb for skin soothing and digestive support.

Benefits & Uses

  • Skin health: Calms itching, irritation, and rashes; useful for psoriasis and eczema.

  • Respiratory & urinary support: Provides mild antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.

  • Digestive aid: Acts as a gentle laxative and demulcent for the digestive tract.

  • Nutritive tonic: Rich in vitamins and minerals, supports general health and vitality.

Form & Dosage

  • Fresh herb (poultice): Crushed leaves applied topically for wounds, irritation, or splinters.

  • Infusion/tea: 1–2 tsp dried herb steeped in hot water, up to 3 times daily.

  • Tincture: 2–4 ml, up to 3 times daily.

  • Poultice/wash: Used externally for skin and eye irritation.

Parts Used

Aerial parts (leaves, stems, flowers).

Precautions

  • Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Avoid high medicinal doses; safety not established.

  • Overuse: May cause mild digestive upset in excess.

  • Allergies: Rare, but possible in sensitive individuals.

Sources

For more detailed information about the different ways to take herbs, consider taking a course at the HomeGrown Herbalist Online School of Botanical Medicine.

 
Sign-up Here

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *