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Common Name
Chickweed, Starweed
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Botanical Name
Stellaria media
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Part Used
Herb
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Clinical Summary
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Monograph
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Alcohol
25%
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Dose
20 to 100mL weekly
This cooling, soothing herb is best known for its use in itchy and inflamed skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. It is also used for digestive upsets, rheumatism, ulcers, constipation, coughs and sore throats.
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Traditional Use
Considered a ubiquitous garden weed, chickweed has been historically used as a potage herb being favoured in soups and stews amongst peasants and nobles alike. It was often included in spring tonic remedies for its nutritive value. Chickweed water is an old wives’ remedy for obesity however recent studies may be one step closer to scientifically proving this.
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Actions
Demulcent, anti-inflammatory, expectorant, antitussive, antirheumatic. Topically: vulnerary, emollient, antipruritic
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Indications
• Inflammatory disorders such as rheumatism, gout and as an adjunct to cancer treatment
• Digestive disorders - including diarrhoea, constipation, dyspepsia and ulcers
• Bronchial phlegm, bronchitis, dry coughs, sore throat
• Topically for eczema, psoriasis, rashes, burns, ulcers, abscess, itchy skin, inflammation of the eye, haemorrhoids and other pruritic skin conditions -
Energetics
Bitter, sweet, cooling
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Use in Pregnancy
Chickweed is generally considered safe in pregnancy when used in dietary amounts however safety is not known when used in larger quantities.
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Contraindications & Cautions
Those with known contact hypersensitivities may need to be careful with topical use of chickweed due to the potential for allergic reactions.
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Drug Interactions
None known
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Dietary Information
Vegan friendly. Gluten and dairy free
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Substitutes
Marshmallow, Ribwort