What is Chickweed?

Chickweed is a very popular herb due to its availability and ability to grow all year round under any climate. It grows low to the ground, has a hairy stem, and produces small, star-shaped, white flowers. It’s primarily found in North America and some parts of Europe. It is packed with iron, calcium, magnesium, manganese, silicon, zinc, phosphorus, potassium, copper, carotenes, and vitamins B and C. Many herbalists swear by chickweed for weight loss because of the saponins that break up fat cells while balancing metabolism.

Chickweed also contains a variety of plant compounds including triterpenes (phytosterols and tocopherols), flavonoids and saponins. Triterpenes are a chemical group that has been used in holistic medicine and pharmacology for its effectiveness against immune system related diseases. They have been described as anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antimicrobial, and antitumoral agents, as well as being immunomodulator compounds. All these combined healing properties make Chickweed a formidable healing supplement.

Medicinal Benefits

• Heals the skin and promotes skin health (effective against loose skin)
• Aids weight loss
• Reduces inflammation
• Lubricates joints

Further Reading