Chickweed

Stellaria media

What is chickweed?

Chickweed is an annual plant native to Europe, recognisable by its hairy-looking stems, oval leaves and small daisy-like blossoms.

What are the benefits of chickweed?

Chickweed has a historical record of use as a traditional herbal remedy in the form of oral decoctions, extracts and teas. With records dating back to the 16^th century, chickweed was said to be used for a wide variety of aliments from the treatment of wounds to alleviation of constipation. Modern use is centred around topical applications for the relief of skin complaints such as:

Burns

Contact dermatitis

Nappy rash

Eczema

Insect bites

Itchy skin

Psoriasis

Hives

Small wounds

Splinters

Safety

Caution should be taken in those with allergies related to the daisy family. However allergies usually present only as a transient rash.

The skin benefits of chickweed can be attributed to the bioactive compounds. Chickweed is high in antioxidants, saponins, vitamins C and A and bioflavonoids with anti-inflammatory effects.

These compounds present in Chickweed balms or salves can help to decrease swelling, pain, redness and congestion, whilst reducing pain due to the astringent effects.

Chickweed can also help to clean, moisturise and protect the skin due to steroidal saponins that form foam when interacting with water. Saponins also reduce permeability of the skin cell membranes to reduce swelling in the skin’s layers.