Chickweed can be used for treating rashes, itchy skin, eczema, insect bites, cuts, burns, bruises and rheumatic pains.
Chickweed (Stellaria media, Common chickweed) is an annual herb native to Europe. In North America it is a common weed. Chickens and birds love chickweed, and they eat the plants and the seeds. That is why the herb gets its name. Chickweed is edible and medicinal. Young leaves of chickweed taste somewhat like spinach. It can be added to salads or soups.
Chickweed has cooling and soothing properties. As a remedy, it can be used internally and externally. When used externally, chickweed is an effective herbal medicine to treat skin diseases, insect bites, minor cuts, minor burns, bruises and rhematoid arthritis.
Traditionally, herbalists use it as a poultice or ointment for rashes, skin irritations, skin abscesses, boils and minor burns. The decoction is also used externally to treat skin ulcers, rheumatic pains and wounds.
How to use chickweed for skin diseases, arthritis, insect bites and wounds
1. Poultice of chickweed
– Smash (or chew) a handful of fresh chickweed to make a poultice
– Or mix some dried powder of chickweed with water to make a poultice
– Apply it to the affected area
– Cover it with a clean cloth and tie a bandage (optional)
2. Decoction of chickweed
– Take a handful of fresh chickweed or 1 teaspoon of dried powder
– Boil and simmer it in a cup of water for 10 minutes
– Let it cool
– Use the decoction to wash the affected area
– Or soak a piece of clean cloth in the liquid
– Then apply it to the affected area as a poultice
Read more information about natural remedies for skin disorders.
