Chickweed is the common name of Stellaria media species, from Caryophyllaceae family.
Also known as: chickenwort, winterweed.
Close-up of chickweed flowers and buds
Image credit: André Karwath aka Aka
View larger image
Features of Chickweed
Height to 2-16 inches. Spread to 16 inches. Annual.
hairy stem.
taproot root.
small, star-shaped, white flower.
Growing Chickweed
Using Chickweed
Culinary
Salad
A nutritious salad herb, available all year except cold winters. (Use leaf)
Vegetable
Cook as a spinach-like vegetable. (Use leaf)
Medicinal
First-aid
Make a poultice and apply to cuts, bruises, burns, and eczema. (Use leaf)
Medicine
Herbalists may prescribe it for rheumatism, bronchitis, and menstrual pains.
Other Use
Other use
Great food for fowls and birds.
Traditional Remedies
- Skin » wounds and sores, eczema, bruise, dermatitis, chapped skin, burns
- Respiratory » bronchitis
- Disorder » menstrual disorders
- Muscle And Joint » muscle pain, joint pain, arthritis
Traditional remedies may or may not be supported by scientific evidences.
Cautions
- Conditions » Not suitable for medicinal use during pregnancy.
- Please consult with your doctor before using chickweed for health related purposes.
Notes
Chickweed is an invasive plant and difficult to control — not a good idea for gardens.
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