Herb of the Week: Chickweed

Chickweed (Stellaria Media) is also known as starweed, stitchwort, scarwort, or satin flower. The latin name "Stellaria" literally means "star" and, as you can see from the photos, its flower and leaves do look like stars! This herb is mostly native to Europe and, again, it's another weed that actually helps us.

I'm going to get of subject for a moment and discuss why it is that weeds are such helpful medicinal plants for us. These plants are seen as unwanted nuisances but they are very resilient plants that thrive in soil that may not be the most nurturing and that may have some nutrient imbalances. This need to thrive as a plant makes these "nuisances" be loaded with concentrated vitamins, minerals, and potent compounds (like antioxidants, anti-inflammatories) to help both the soil and themselves survive. They literally create their best environment for survival and it's these characteristics that make weeds be some of the most powerful medicinal herbs we have. Now, back to chickweed.

Chickweed contains high amounts of calcium, potassium, and iron. Like legumes, oats, and ginger, chickweed is high in saponins which is one of its defenses but makes for a soap-like foaming ability that helps to lower cholesterol in humans. Its other health benefits are as an eyewash or poultice for sore, infected eyes, and as a diuretic tonic to help rebalance the urinary system. Also, because of its mineral contents, it makes a great food additive!

As for its witchcraft benefits, it's a nurturing herb so use it in love, fidelity, protection, peace, emotional healing, and renewal spells/rituals. Because of its cooling and gentle energy, it's connected to the moon and water.