Chickweed
‘In a word, it comforteth, digesteth, defendeth and suppurateth very notably’
John Gerard, 1597
There are so many useful weeds, and chickweed is certainly high up in the list. It is full of vitamins and minerals, which makes it a terrific tonic, and it is one of the best herbs to stop itching.
It grows everywhere, although it doesn’t like the South African summers, so you may not find it at the hottest time of the year. Don’t worry though, it will be back as soon as the weather cools a little. It is edible and has a mild flavour and is a lovely addition to a salad.
(Chickweed (Stellaria media) is often confused with other weeds, especially Gallant Soldier.)
Culinary Uses
Chickweed is mild tasting, has a slightly crunchy texture and combines well with most dishes. The stems are tender so no need to strip the tiny leaves off, just eat the whole thing.
I love chickweed in a salad or a sandwich, but it also makes a lovely pesto, is amazing with avo and a touch of chili, and is a great substitute for fresh pea shoots. It can be steamed, but it dissolves into such a small amount you need a bucketful for one person. Definitely one to enjoy raw.
Chickweed pesto: Use a mild nut such as cashews or you will overwhelm the delicate flavour of the herb.
Cultivation
This is a weed that needs no help to grow and no special attention. Even though it will hibernate in the heat of summer, it will be back as soon as it cools down again.
The roots are very shallow so it won't strangle any delicate plants, in fact it is a wonderful ground cover. And, if there really is too much, you can easily pull it out.
The seeds are virtually invisible - if you want to save some, collect the whole flower head and pop it in a packet.
Medicinal Uses
This tiny little plant is full of nutrients . Vitamins A, C and D and some Vit B including vitamin B12. calcium, copper, iron, phosphorus, manganese, magnesium, zinc and silica, plus a few more in smaller quantities. Juice it or add to your smoothie to give your body a boost and take advantage of another of its super powers - a lymphatic tonic.
As I mentioned, it is one of the best herbs to stop itching. Simply make an infusion and use it as a gently wash or a compress. You could also add it to a skin cream or salve.
Pets & Livestock
It isn't called chickweed for nothing! Chickens love it, and so do most other birds, including the wild ones.
The same goes for bunnies, hamsters, and your larger animals like sheep, cows and horses. The only animal that isn't keen on this herb is goats, which could be a good thing as they demolish everything else that grows (except Mullein, that's another one they dislike)
When the weather starts to warm up and you notice your chickweed wilting, pick it all and dry it. What you don't use for your skin, you can feed to your pets, or even put it out for the wild birds.
Now you know what a useful little weed this is, I hope you dash out into the garden and see if you can find some!
To find out more about Chickweed and other useful weeds in your garden, take a look at the Barefoot Herb Club Weeds Collections.
There are six guides in each collection and each guide covers description, growing, culinary, medicinal, body care, home and garden uses. Plus there are tried and tested recipes for most applications.
Find out more here
POST CATEGORY
Become a
HERB WHIZZ
How do you learn about herbs?
By joining the
Barefoot Herb Club
Where you discover one new herb every single week!
