Chickweed has long been prescribed by herbalists as a tonic and for a variety of ailments. It is high in Vitamin C and also contains other nutrients including Vitamin A, some B vitamins, calcium, phosphorus, potassium and zinc.
* Please Note: This information is based partly on Traditional Medicine which uses natural materials to support health. This information has not been evaluated or approved by the FDA. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These products are intended to support general well being and are not intended to treat, diagnose, mitigate, prevent, or cure any condition or disease. If conditions persist, please seek advice from your medical doctor.
Description
Chickweed has long been prescribed by herbalists as a tonic and for a variety of ailments. It is high in Vitamin C and also contains other nutrients including Vitamin A, some B vitamins, calcium, phosphorus, potassium and zinc.
This common weed, sometimes called Starweed, can be found in almost every garden in all corners of the world. It is a low growing annual plant with tiny star-shaped white flowers. Traditionally Chickweed was harvested as a vegetable.
Herbalists recommend Chickweed for both internal and external inflammations. It is thought to be helpful for relieving urinary tract inflammation and cystitis. As a cream it can be applied to skin irritations, including eczema, insect bites, burns and scalds. Taken internally it is recommended by herbalists to relieve coughs and colds by reducing mucus build-up in the lungs. Herbalists also use it as a poultice for drawing boils, abscesses and ulcers. The plant is edible and can be added to salad or cooked.
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Rod - April 24, 2006, 20:53
#10000151
I was told Chickweed will help lower blodd pressure. Is this correct?
ZooScape Moderator - April 25, 2006, 14:21
#10000187
Chickweed has a history that spans the continents. Native Americans cherished it as a general tonic to help keep them healthy throughout the seasons. European folklore also recognizes the same uses. Today, Chickweed remains as popular as ever. It contains a wealth of naturally occurring nutrients, and is a valuable herb for both young or old.
Traditionally, Chickweed was used for all cases of bronchitis, pleurisy, coughs, colds, hoarseness, rheumatism, inflammation, weakness of the bowels and stomach, lungs, bronchial tubes, and any other forms of internal inflammation. Chickweed is an herb especially useful for supporting healthy urinary system function. Containing anti-inflammatory properties, Chickweed is popularly used to promote healing and soothe irritated tissues. Chickweed provides antibiotic agents that are beneficial for relieving urinary tract inflammation and cystitis.
I have been unable to find any substantial evidence that would suggest Chickweed be taken to help lower blood pressure. If you are looking for an herbal product to help with high blood pressure, may I suggest you view all the products we have available for this specific ailment at ZooScape.com by following this link: Blood Pressure products.
Directions
Hot tea brewing method: Bring freshly drawn cold water to a rolling boil. Place 1 teaspoon for each cup into the teapot. Pour the boiling water into the teapot. Cover and let steep for 3-7 minutes according to taste (the longer the steeping time the stronger the tea).
Iced tea brewing method (to make 1 liter/quart): Place 6 teaspoons into a teapot or heat resistant pitcher. Pour 1 1/4 cups of freshly boiled water over the tea. Steep for 5 minutes. Quarter fill a serving pitcher with cold water. Pour the tea into your serving pitcher straining the leaves. Add ice and top-up the pitcher with cold water. Garnish and sweeten to taste. [A rule of thumb when preparing fresh brewed iced tea is to double the strength of hot tea since it will be poured over ice and diluted with cold water].
Additional Information
ZooScape is proud to be the exclusive distributor of TerraVita teas, herbs and supplements in the United States, Canada and around the world. Please direct all wholesale and bulk inquiries to Simona Heather at 905-494-1785.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Products are intended to support general well being and are not intended to treat, diagnose, mitigate, prevent, or cure any condition or disease. If conditions persist, please seek advice from your medical doctor. The essence of the current American rule on Traditional Uses is, as stated by FTC, "Claims based on historical or traditional use should be substantiated by confirming scientific evidence, or should be presented in such a way that consumers understand that the sole basis for the claim is a history of use of the product for a particular purpose."
