Chickweed

Basic Information

Biological name (genus and species):
Stellaria media
Parts used for medicinal purposes:
Various parts of the entire plant, frequently differing by
country and/or culture
Chemicals this herb contains:
Ascorbic acid (vitamin C)
Potash salts
Rutin

KNOWN EFFECTS

Reduces thickness of mucous in lungs. Increases urine production.

Miscellaneous information:
Chickweed has been proved ineffective for medicinal purposes.

UNPROVED SPECULATED BENEFITS

Internal use:
Treats asthma. Protects scraped tissues. Treats gastrointestinal disorders. Is used as a vitamin-C supplement. Relieves constipation.

External use:
Is used as an ointment for external rashes and sores.

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

Don't take if you:
Are pregnant, think you may be pregnant or plan pregnancy in the near future.

Consult your doctor if you:
Take this herb for any medical problem that doesn't improve in 2 weeks. There may be safer, more-effective treatments. Take any medicinal drugs or herbs including aspirin, laxatives, cold and cough remedies, antacids, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, supplements, other prescription or non-prescription drugs.

Pregnancy:
Problems in pregnant women taking small or usual amounts have not been proved. But the chance of problems does exist. Don't use unless prescribed by your doctor.

Breast-feeding:
Problems in breast-fed infants of lactating mothers taking small or usual amounts have not been proved. But the chance of problems does exist. Don't use unless prescribed by your doctor.

Infants and children:
Treating infants and children under 2 with any herbal preparation is hazardous.

Others:
None expected if you are beyond childhood and under 45, basically healthy and take for only a short time.

Storage:
Keep cool and dry, but don't freeze. Store safely away from children.

Safe dosage:
At present no "safe" dosage has been established.

TOXICITY

Rated relatively safe when taken in appropriate quantities for
short periods of time.
For symptoms of toxicity: See Adverse Reactions, Side Effects or Overdose Symptoms section below.

ADVERSE REACTIONS, SIDE EFFECTS OR OVERDOSE SYMPTOMS