What does chickweed look like? Chickweed, chickweed. Useful properties and applications

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The site provides reference information for informational purposes only. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases must be carried out under the supervision of a specialist. All drugs have contraindications. Consultation with a specialist is required!

Chickweed grass

Chickweed is a genus of flowering plants in the carnation family. Includes perennial, less often annual herbs with sessile linear-lanceolate or ovate leaves. The flowers are white. The fruit is a spherical or ovoid capsule. The seeds are almost round, brown. The most famous representative of the genus is woodlice(medium starfish).

In the genus Starwort there are up to two hundred species, representatives of which grow on all continents. Chickweed grows mainly in cold and temperate climates, but also in the highlands of the subtropics and tropics. The greatest variety of chickweed species can be found in the mountainous regions of China.

Some varieties of chickweed are grown culturally as ornamental plants.

Types of chickweed

Chickweed Bunge

Lat.: Stellaria bungeana
Chickweed Bunge is a perennial herbaceous plant with fine roots up to 50 cm tall. The leaves are ovate, the upper ones are sessile, the basal leaves are petiolate. Basal leaves are absent at the time of flowering. Blooms throughout the summer.

It is found in the east of European Russia, as well as in Siberia and the Far East.

It grows in mountainous and highland forested areas, as well as in bushes, river valleys, meadows, and ravines.

Young shoots and leaves collected before flowering are used.

Chickweed Bunge is used in the following forms:

Juice from fresh herb Bunge chickweed
Fresh raw materials are crushed and the juice is squeezed out. Drink 1 tsp. for diabetes mellitus, or used externally to heal abrasions, trophic ulcers, diabetic wounds.

Infusion of dry herb Bunge chickweed for diabetes mellitus
1 tsp dry crushed herb, brew 200 ml of boiling water, and leave for 8 hours. Then filter and drink during the day in 4-5 doses for diabetes mellitus.

Chickweed decoction Bune
1 tsp dry crushed herb, pour 200 ml of clean water, bring to a boil and boil for two minutes. Let it brew, strain and consume in four doses during the day for diabetes mellitus and allergic pathologies.

Bunge chickweed bath recipe
Pour green or dry Bunge chickweed herb with cold water, bring to a boil and simmer for 15-20 minutes. under the lid over low heat. Then leave for an hour and strain. For a full bath you need 700-800 g of herb. Baths should be taken every day for 1.5 - 2 weeks.

Forest chickweed (oak forest)

Lat.: Stellaria nemorum
Chickweed (chickweed, chaveda, owl's potion) is a perennial plant with thin, deep rhizomes. Erect stems are usually up to 0.6 m in height. The entire plant is pubescent, the leaves along the edges are ciliated, heart-shaped, pointed. The flowers are white, solitary. The fruit is an elongated or rounded capsule, opening with 8-10 doors.

The flowering period is from late spring to late summer.

Grows in Europe, Asia Minor and the Caucasus. Inhabits deciduous and coniferous-deciduous forests, peat bogs and meadows, shrubs, and on the banks of reservoirs. They prefer rich and loose soil.

Chickweed has medicinal properties. Infusions of the plant, prepared according to various recipes, are used to treat fungal skin infections. In Mexico, the plant is believed to help treat cancer.

Important! Chickweed is a poisonous plant!

Recipe for chickweed infusion
Brew two tablespoons of 1.5 cups of boiling water, leave for two hours, strain. Use the infusion as a lotion for fungal skin infections.

Chickweed lanceolate

Lat.: Stellaria holostea
Chickweed lanceolate (lanceolate, rigid-leaved) is a perennial herb 15-30 cm high, with creeping rhizomes and erect stems, branched upward. The leaves are narrow, pointed, hard, rough along the edges and along the midrib. The flowers are large, white, collected in semi-umbrellas. The fruit is a round capsule, slightly shorter than the calyx.

The flowering period is from April to the end of May.

Chickweed lanceolate grows in the European part of Russia, the Caucasus, and Western Siberia. Prefers forests and bushes.

Attention! The plant is poisonous!

The herb and plant juice are used for medicinal purposes. The procurement of raw materials is carried out during the flowering period.

Action of chickweed lanceolate:

• anti-inflammatory;
• painkiller;
• cardiovascular.

Internally, chickweed lanceolate is used for the following pathologies:

• joint pain in the arms and legs;
• cold;
• rheumatism;
• heart diseases.

A decoction, strong water infusion and juice of chickweed lanceolate are used in the form of local baths and lotions for:

• skin pathologies (scabies);
• tumors;
• continuous bleeding;
• festering wounds;
• bedsores.

The herb, wrapped in gauze, is applied topically for pain relief.

Ingesting chickweed in one form or another requires caution, since the plant is poisonous.

An infusion of green chickweed with flowers is used for coughs, used for joint pain, colds, rheumatism, stomach pain, and also for heart disease (another popular name for the plant is heart herb).

The juice of lanceolate chickweed, infusions and decoctions of green plants are used to prepare baths and lotions for skin pathologies, especially scabies.

Important! Ingestion of the plant in one form or another should be done with caution, since the plant is poisonous.

Below are the most commonly used recipes for preparing chickweed for various pathologies:

Pain-relieving compress from chickweed
3-4 tbsp. Pour boiling water over green or dried chickweed herb and wrap in gauze. Apply the herb in gauze externally for pain relief.

Decoction for skin diseases

4 tbsp. dry crushed medium chickweed herb pour 1 liter of water, bring to a boil, boil for 15 minutes, leave for 2 hours, strain. Use locally as washes and lotions for skin pathologies.

Infusion of chickweed lanceolate
1 tsp dry crushed chickweed herb, pour 1.5 cups of boiling water, leave, strain. Drink one teaspoon 2-4 times a day for coughs, joint pain, colds, rheumatism, stomach pain, heart disease.

Chickweed (grass-like)

Lat.: Stellaria graminea
Chickweed is a perennial herb with creeping branching tetrahedral stems, the height of which does not exceed 40 cm. The leaves are opposite, sharp, up to 4 cm long and 4 mm wide, rough along the edges. The flowers are small, white, forming spreading multi-flowered inflorescences. The fruit is an oblong capsule.
Blooms from May to August.

It grows in European Russia, the Caucasus, Siberia, and also in some areas of Central Asia. Prefers meadows, sparse forests, banks of rivers and lakes. Found as a weed in fields. Prefers fairly moist soils.

The stems, leaves and flowers of the plant, which are collected during the flowering period, are used for medicinal purposes. The grass is dried in dry, well-ventilated areas.

Attention! The plant is poisonous! Oral use requires great caution.

It has been experimentally proven that chickweed increases the function of the gonads.

In folk medicine, an infusion of chickweed and rye stalks is recommended to be used as a general tonic for older people.

Also, an infusion of chickweed helps with hyperthyroidism and heart pain.

In folk medicine, a tincture of chickweed is traditionally prepared with vodka, and is used in the form of drops and as an anesthetic for stomach and intestinal pain, as well as for coughing.

Fresh chickweed greens are crushed and used as a poultice for abscesses.

Infusion of chickweed
Pour one tablespoon of the herb into 200 ml of boiling water, leave for 1.5-2 hours, drink 1 tablespoon 3-4 times a day, before eating.

Tincture of chickweed
Pour 20 grams of dry crushed chickweed into a glass of vodka, leave for 1-1.5 weeks, strain. Take 25-30 drops orally half an hour before breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Chickweed

Lat: Stellaria uliginosa
Marsh chickweed is a perennial herb with branched, tetrahedral, recumbent or ascending stems from 5 to 40 cm in height. The leaves are from 0.5 to 1.5 cm in length, oblong-lanceolate, sessile. The flowers are small, white, with five petals. The fruit is an ovoid capsule with seeds.

The flowering period is from late spring to early autumn.

Distributed in North America, Europe and Asia. In Russia - mainly in the European part. Prefers shady damp places, river valleys, grows along reservoirs, in swamps.

In folk medicine, chickweed is used in the form of compresses to treat scrofula and eczema.

Chickweed (Chickweed)

Lat.: Stellaria media
Chickweed (chickweed) is a weed that is quite difficult to control manually due to the fact that one plant produces an average of 15,000 seeds. Seeds in the soil can sprout within another 2-5 years. However, not everyone knows that it is also a medicinal plant, widely used in folk medicine.

Chickweed is an annual herb. It has a creeping branched stem, up to 10 cm in height. The leaves are ovate, the upper ones are sessile, the lower ones are petiolate. The flowers are small, star-shaped, with white petals. The fruit is an oblong capsule with a large number of seeds. The flowering period is from May to September.

Woodlice has the unique ability to predict the onset of rain, as it is very susceptible to changes in temperature and humidity. If the corolla of the flower has not risen and opened before nine o’clock in the morning, then it will rain during the day.

Chickweed is a good honey plant due to its long flowering period.

The aerial part of the plant contains a large amount of carotene and vitamin C. Therefore, the aerial part of the woodlice is used as food. In early spring, the greens of the plant, collected before flowering, are used for food, usually for preparing salads and seasonings. Woodlice in the form of vitamin salads is useful for scurvy and anemia.

Chickweed is used to prepare therapeutic and prophylactic baths, which have a healing and rejuvenating effect on the skin. Compresses made from steamed woodlice, or with a decoction, are used externally as pain-relieving poultices for rheumatism, radiculitis, wounds, bruises, sprains, gout, and also for acne.

Woodlice is an extremely valuable medicinal plant that helps with a number of diseases. Further, when speaking about chickweed, we will mean the average chickweed, or chickweed.

Collection and preparation

To prepare medicinal raw materials, above-ground parts of plants are collected during the flowering period. To dry, the plant should be placed in a place protected from rain and sunlight, but ventilated (for example, under a canopy). The dried herb is crushed. It can be stored in a canvas bag or in a glass jar under a nylon lid.

Composition of chickweed

Vitamins

Vitamin C - role in the body:

• normalization of the metabolism of proteins, fats and carbohydrates;
• collagen synthesis;
• ensuring the production of immunoglobulins, interferon and the work of leukocytes;
• antioxidant properties;
• ensuring the synthesis of adrenal hormones;
• ensuring cholesterol production;
• ensuring the functioning of neurotransmitters in the brain.

Vitamin E:

• necessary for the normal growth and development of the child;
• exhibiting antioxidant properties, prevents the development of cancer;
• strengthens the immune system;
• prevents coronary heart disease;
• exhibits a rejuvenating effect on the entire body;
• improves skin condition, prevents premature aging;
• increases physical activity, improves the functioning of the nervous system;
• necessary for conception and normal pregnancy.

Vitamin K:

• ensuring normal growth and development of the child’s body;
• regulation of the blood clotting process;
• preventing bleeding and bleeding of various types;
• strengthening the walls of capillaries;
• strengthening bones;
• formation of heart and lung tissues;
• the formation of energy for all cells of the body as a result of anabolic action.

Carotene

• Has a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system, reduces the likelihood of stroke;
• has an immunostimulating effect, protects cells from pathogenic microorganisms;
• prevents the appearance of malignant tumors, especially cervical cancer;
• cleanses the body of harmful substances;
• prevents the risk of early aging;
• prevents oxidative processes with the formation of atherosclerotic plaques.

Microelements

Magnesium:

• calms the nervous and muscular system;
• has an alkaline effect on the body;
• ensures energy utilization during the breakdown of glucose;
• participates in DNA synthesis;
• ensures the absorption of vitamins B 1, B 6 and C;
• provides cell structure, regeneration and tissue replacement;
• Provides proper structure and hardness to bones.

Copper:

• Provides synthesis of proteins and enzymes, growth and development of tissues;
• Participates in the production of hemoglobin;
• Participates in the production of red blood cells and white blood cells;
• Transports iron from the liver to various tissues of the body;
• Supplies cells with substances necessary for metabolism.

Iron:

• necessary for the synthesis of hemoglobin transport protein;
• provides tissue respiration - brings oxygen and takes away carbon monoxide;
• plays one of the most important roles in growth processes;
• necessary for the synthesis of many digestive enzymes and for energy exchange;
• participates in the creation and transmission of nerve impulses in nervous tissue;
• necessary for the formation of immune cells, providing good immunity.

Cobalt:

• takes part in hematopoiesis (stimulates the production of red blood cells);
• prevents nervousness, fatigue, exacerbation of nervous diseases;
• stimulates bone tissue growth;
• participates in the endogenous synthesis of cyanocobalamin, as well as DNA and RNA;
• normalizes the functioning of the pancreas;
• takes part in the synthesis of thyroid hormones;
• prevents atherosclerosis;
• strengthens the immune system (stimulates phagocytosis of leukocytes);
• activates some essential enzymes;
• prevents the formation of malignant tumors.

Triterpene saponins

Triterpene saponins are characterized by hemolytic activity - they form a complex with cholesterol, which destroys the membrane of red blood cells, allowing hemoglobin to enter the blood plasma and dissolve in it. Improve the penetration of proteins and other large molecules through cell membranes.

When released into the blood, triterpene saponins are toxic because they accelerate the breakdown of red blood cells. When taken orally, they are usually less toxic due to the hydrolysis of saponins.

They have emollient and expectorant properties.

Tannins

• Have an anti-inflammatory effect;
• inhibit inflammatory processes in the digestive tract;
• have bactericidal and bacteriostatic effects;
• bind and remove heavy metals (lead, mercury, cadmium, zinc) from the body when intoxicated with them;
• have a hemostatic effect;
• are an effective antidote for bee stings.

Alkaloids

Alkaloids have different, but extremely pronounced biologically active effects, and have a number of common properties:

• regulate the level of excitation of the nervous system;
• have an analgesic effect;
• have an emetic, expectorant and diuretic effect.

Flavonoids

• Regulate the permeability of the walls of blood vessels, reduce their fragility, and prevent sclerotic processes;
• have an antioxidant effect, prevent the appearance of cancer tumors and radiation damage to the body;
• prevent premature aging;
• protect tissues from histamine.

Lipids

Physiological role of lipids:

• energy;
• mechanical;
• transport;
• structural;
• heat insulating.

Essential oils

Properties of essential oils:

• antimicrobial, bactericidal;
• tonic;
• regenerating, rejuvenating;
• anti-inflammatory;
• sedative;
• expectorant;
• diuretic.

Properties of chickweed

• Anti-inflammatory;
• Antimicrobial;
• Antiscorbutic;
• Choleretic;
• Diuretic;
• Laxative;
• Hemostatic;
• Hypotensive.

The use of chickweed in folk medicine

Speaking about woodlice, it is worth quoting S. Kneipp, who introduced the plant into medicine: “Chickweed can be considered useful for the treatment of lung diseases, since it has a softening effect, promotes expectoration of sputum, and can also help with vomiting or coughing up blood, with hemorrhoids, inflammation and tumors of the kidneys and bladder; externally, chickweed is effective against skin lesions, rashes, poorly healing wounds and ulcers."

In particular, chickweed is good in combination with plantain and horsetail. Everything that Sebastian Kneipp wrote about is still true. It is worth adding to this that the eyes are washed with a decoction of chickweed to relieve inflammation, as well as to improve vision and treat eye diseases.

In Belarus, woodlice is traditionally used for bleeding, hemorrhoids, hemoptysis, vomiting with blood, and hypovitaminosis.

In Karelia, the aerial part of the plant is used for heart pathologies, diseases of the liver, kidneys, lungs, skin pathologies, and also as a diuretic, laxative and hemostatic agent.

The Nanais use fresh green wood lice to prepare baths that relieve swelling of the legs.

Woodlice is also popularly used for hernia, cough, and as an expectorant and tonic.

It is believed that eating woodlice improves heart function and balances the nervous system, has a hemostatic and analgesic effect, and also treats tumors of various origins.

Chickweed is used in folk medicine to treat the following diseases:

• Dermatitis;
• Eczema;
• Ulcers;
• Hernia;
• Bleeding;
• Non-healing trophic ulcers;
• Chronic liver diseases;
• Avitaminosis;
• Scurvy;
• Anemia;
• Inflammatory pathologies of the bronchopulmonary system;
• Hypertensive heart disease (in the form of infusion);
• Kidney diseases (as part of complex treatment);
• Inflammation of the eyes and eye diseases (rinsing with plant juice).

The plant is also successfully used to prevent atherosclerosis.

Chickweed extract

Chickweed extract has the following properties:

• mild hypotensive;
• positive inotropic;
• pronounced vasodilator.

Chickweed oil extract for the treatment of keloid
Fill a 500 ml glass jar with fresh chickweed, packing the herb tightly. Pour refined sunflower oil on top so that it covers the herb, refrigerate for 15 days. After this period, the oil should be poured into another container. The shelf life of this extract is 6-7 months.

For keloid scars, apply compresses with the extract prepared in this way to the scar area for 20 minutes. every day.

Chickweed juice

Since ancient times, folk healers have used the juice of fresh green chickweed for liver and kidney diseases, enlarged thyroid gland, and hemorrhoids. The juice contains a large amount of useful substances, so it helps with a number of pathologies.

Chickweed juice is used in the following cases:

• diseases of the heart, lungs, liver;
• bleeding;
• cough;
• hemoptysis;
• pulmonary tuberculosis;
• internal bleeding due to pneumonia, bronchitis, pleurisy, cough, ARVI;
• gout, rheumatism - as a pain reliever;
• aching bones;
• epilepsy - as an anticonvulsant for children;
• purulent wounds;
• haemorrhoids;
• swelling;
• tumors – benign and malignant.

It is also used as a laxative and diuretic.

Daily consumption of fresh chickweed juice helps relieve migraines, relieve irritation, fatigue, and improve memory. Vitamin E, contained in fresh juice, has rejuvenating properties, cleanses capillaries and blood vessels, regulates blood composition, and activates the body’s cleansing of waste products. Of course, to effectively cleanse the body, drinking juice alone will not be enough. It is recommended to drink 100 ml of average chickweed juice 3 times a day before meals, during. 3 months. In March, together with nettle, you can make salads from it.

As an external remedy, chickweed juice is used for inflammation of the eyes, rheumatism, leucorrhoea and radiculitis. In the form of hot lotions, it helps with joint pain.

Contraindications

No serious contraindications to the use of chickweed have been identified at the moment. People with low blood pressure should use it with caution, as the herb can significantly reduce blood pressure.

Treatment with chickweed - reviews

Tatiana, Izhevsk
I have varicose veins on both legs, and have been since childhood. Now I'm 22 years old. I used a lot of ointments and gels. This did not provide any significant improvements; as a result, my legs were completely covered in varicose veins. The pain did not allow me to move normally.

A neighbor in the country advised me to make a poultice from fresh chickweed grass. I changed the procedure a little. She applied chickweed to the varicose veins, covered the top with a freshly picked burdock leaf, the reverse side, and secured it with a bandage. The most important thing is that burdock leaf can be kept for no longer than two hours, otherwise then it seems to begin to bring the disease back. And don’t skimp on the grass; if it withers a little, replace it with fresh one. I applied woodlice to each thrombophlebitic node for at least a week. After these manipulations, my legs began to feel much better, I could even dance.

Zinaida Viktorovna, Tver
In 1960, I underwent surgery for an enlarged thyroid gland. Since then nothing has bothered me for some time. In 1991, I retired and began to feel that my health was becoming unimportant. After an examination, the endocrinologist said that the thyroid gland was enlarged, and type 2 diabetes had also developed. The condition worsened.

After reading an article in a magazine about a woman who successfully treated an enlarged thyroid gland with chickweed (chickweed), I decided to try it too. Over the summer I collected a lot of woodlice from the dacha, so I got about 3-4 kg of dry grass. In mid-autumn I started treatment. In the morning, a tablespoon of dry grass was poured into a glass of boiling water, covered and left until noon. At lunch, I strained it and drank a third of a glass half an hour before meals. I drank the same dose before dinner and before breakfast, and in the morning I prepared a new portion of the infusion.

So I drank woodlice infusion every day for 6 months. However, at first I took elthyroxine, prescribed by a doctor, for some time, but, gradually reducing the dosage, I began to be treated only with wood lice. Over time, she got up and began to walk around the house.

Later I took tests, and they showed that my sugar was normal. The doctor was quite surprised when she found out that I had leveled out my sugar levels and cured my thyroid gland only with herbal infusion. A blood test for hormones also showed that hormonal levels were normal - that is, problems with the thyroid gland were also resolved. And now, for more than four years, I am not limited in my diet.

Irina, Moscow
Two years ago, my daughter needed surgery due to mastopathy. After the examination, the mammologist-oncologist sent me straight to the operating room. Fortunately, the breasts were saved, but they had to be reduced. Only a year passed and the same disease was discovered in me. I was always too afraid of operations, and so I decided to find some alternative method. As it turned out, traditional medicine has a simple and effective method of treating mastopathy. It is necessary to apply chickweed or chickweed grass to the inflamed areas. The plant is considered a weed and can be found almost everywhere. Pick fresh woodlice, rinse and dry, and apply fresh herbs to the areas of inflammation, and when they wither, replace them.

Anna Petrovna, Yaroslavl
I was diagnosed with a predisposition to glaucoma - my eyes began to get very tired and hurt. I could only read for half an hour at a time. On the doctor’s recommendation, I took taurine drops and did eye exercises.

I once read in a magazine about the medicinal properties of woodlice. I picked 7 kg of woodlice, washed it, dried it and put it through a meat grinder. Then I squeezed the juice through a juicer and filtered it. As a result, I received 5 liters of juice. I added alcohol to the juice, at a ratio of 100 ml of alcohol per liter of juice, and put it in the refrigerator. Within eight weeks I drank all this juice. My eyes began to feel much better. It's been a year now and I can read and watch TV without restrictions.

Recipes with medium chickweed

Chickweed juice for headaches
Drink freshly squeezed plant juice, 100 ml 3 times a day, for a month.

Compress for knee pain
Lightly mash the freshly collected herb and apply it to the pathological area, tie it with a bandage. Replace the grass 3-4 times a day.

Infusion for heart pain
Pour a handful of dry chickweed grass into 500 ml of boiling water, wrap and leave for 6 hours. Take 100 ml orally 3-4 times a day, half an hour before meals. Course – 2-3 weeks.
Also, for heart pain, it is recommended to eat a salad of fresh wood lice every day.

Tincture for joint pain
Fill a glass jar two-thirds full with dry crushed chickweed grass and fill it to the top with vodka. Leave for 3 weeks in a dark place at room temperature. Strain, squeeze out the raw materials. The tincture is used externally, rubbing into sore joints, or in the form of compresses.

Chickweed juice for liver diseases
Drink the juice of fresh green chickweed, 1 tsp. 4 times a day, adding honey.

Woodlice infusion for thyroid diseases
Pour 200 ml of boiling water over a tablespoon of dry crushed chickweed grass, cool, strain and take 1/3 cup three times a day, half an hour before meals. Course duration is up to 6 months. Then, every year, conduct two-month courses for prevention.

Wood lice compress for varicose veins
Lightly mash fresh chickweed greens and apply to varicose areas. To enhance the therapeutic effect, you can cover the top with a fresh burdock leaf, the reverse side. Bandage the compress and keep it on for two hours. Continue applying compresses until the condition improves.

Woodlice infusion for hemorrhoids
Pour a pinch of dry crushed medium chickweed herb into 70-80 ml of boiling water, leave, and squeeze. Infusion to drink. Place the grass on a cloth and apply it to the anus.

Recipe with woodlice for glaucoma
Rinse fresh green chickweed, dry it, mince it and squeeze out the juice. Mix juice with alcohol in a ratio of 10 to 1 (per liter of juice - 100 ml of alcohol), store the mixture in the refrigerator. Take 50 ml orally half an hour before meals, 2 times a day. Admission course – 2 months.

Woodlice infusion for diabetes
In the morning, pour in a tablespoon of dry crushed chickweed herb and leave to brew for several hours. Then strain and drink 1/3 glass half an hour before meals - 3 times a day. Course duration – 6-7 months.

Woodlice tincture for cataracts
Pour 50 g of dry chickweed grass into 250 ml of 40-proof vodka. Leave for 1 week in a dark place at room temperature, strain and filter. The resulting tincture can be stored under the same conditions for up to a year. Using a pipette, drop two or three drops into each eye, 1-2 times a day.

Chickweed juice for cataracts
Freshly squeezed green chickweed juice is filtered and instant pasteurized - that is, heated to 85-90 degrees and immediately removed from the heat. Pasteurized juice poured into a bottle baked on the stove in sealed conditions can be stored for 2-3 days. Using a pipette, drop two or three drops into each eye, 1-2 times a day. This juice stimulates metabolic processes in the lens of the eye.

Wood lice compress for finger contractures
Heat freshly picked chickweed greens in a colander over a water bath. Place the hot herb on the palm, secure with a bandage and bandage, and put a mitten on top. Leave the compress overnight. Course duration – 2 weeks.

Woodlice for mastopathy
Chickweed helps with mastopathy. To do this, scald a handful of dry crushed herbs with boiling water, cool and apply to the sore spot.

General strengthening wood lice tea
Pour two tablespoons of dry crushed medium chickweed into 500 ml of boiling water. Infuse and drink instead of tea throughout the day.

Woodlice infusion for nodular goiter
Pour boiling water over a handful of clean green or dried medium-sized chickweed, leave to brew in a thermos for 1-2 hours. Then strain through double gauze, and consume internally instead of water 3-4 times a day. In total, you should consume about a liter of infusion per day. Treatment - within a year.

Woodlouse at Spurs
Place fresh chickweed greens in your shoes instead of insoles. Replace the grass several times a day.

Woodlice juice for noise in the head
Drink half a glass of freshly prepared chickweed juice 3 times a day for 4-5 weeks.

Chickweed juice for ulcers (bleeding)
Drink a teaspoon of freshly squeezed green chickweed juice every 2 hours.

Woodlice infusion for ulcers (vomiting blood)
Pour two tablespoons of dry crushed woodlice herb into 200 ml of boiling water and leave overnight (9-10 hours). Drink a tablespoon every 2 hours.

Infusion of chickweed for chronic laryngitis and bronchitis
Brew one tablespoon of dry crushed herb in 200 ml of boiling water, leave for half an hour, strain and cool. Drink 2 tbsp. 3 times a day, half an hour before meals.

Decoction for neurasthenia, PMS, leucorrhoea
Pour 200 ml of boiling water over two tablespoons of woodlice and keep on low heat for 8-10 minutes. Leave for half an hour, strain. Drink a quarter glass 3 times a day, before meals.

Decoction for anemia, dizziness, loss of strength
Pour a tablespoon of dry crushed woodlice into 200 ml of boiling water, leave for 20 minutes, strain, bring to the original volume with clean water, and drink a quarter glass 4 times a day, 20 minutes before meals.

Infusion for high blood pressure and coronary heart disease
Brew 1.5 tablespoons of fresh green chickweed in 300 ml of boiling water, leave for 40-45 minutes, strain. Drink 100 ml 4-5 times a day, 30 minutes in advance. before meals.

Chickweed: benefits, recipes - video

Before use, you should consult a specialist.

Chickweed is a flowering plant from the carnation family. It stands out among other crops with a huge number of species. There are more than 200 of them. Chickweed grows all over the planet, but depending on the climate and soil characteristics, it changes the shape of the flowers, the color of the leaves and other characteristics.

What does chickweed look like and where does it grow?

This beautiful and delicate flower has several names and can be perennial or annual. Prefers cool climates, high mountain plateaus. Mountain areas of the subtropics and tropics hide unusual glades of blooming chickweed. Certain varieties began to be cultivated by gardeners and decorated their garden plots along with other ornamental plants.

How to grow chickweed (video)

Botanical description of chickweed species

Most A common type of flowers, woodlice (wood lice) has weak stems. They stretch along the surface, clinging to any nearby herbs and plants.

The stem can rise or lie on the ground, fastening occurs due to the hairs located on the skin of the chickweed.

• Stem length – 30 cm;
• Pedicel – pubescent;
• fruit - an oval-shaped capsule with seeds;
• The seeds are similar in appearance to buds.
• Bud of 5 petals;
• Flowering lasts 5 months.

The shape of the leaves is round, pointed at the top. The leaves are decorated with cilia at the base. The upper leaves differ from the lower ones in the way they are secured.

• The upper ones are sessile;
• The lower ones are petiolate.

The plant loves moist, fertile soil.

The Latin name of the species is Stellaria media (stellaria). In everyday life the species is called woodlice. The plant is part of the weed family, it fills the ridges, scatters seeds, and spoils the mood of the owners. Stellaria has a huge number of healing properties, which are unknown to many who like to work in the garden. Average chickweed is an annual variety. Description of special characteristics:

• branched stem rising up to 10 cm in height;
• The leaves are oval in shape with different methods of fastening (sessile and petiolate);
• Small-sized flowers resembling stars;
• The petals of the inflorescences are white;
• The fruit has an oblong shape;
• The seeds are small and formed in large quantities.

Woodlouse has unique abilities. She predicts the arrival of rain and an increase in humidity. Folk omens say that if the flowers on a woodlice have not opened before 9 a.m., you can expect rain. The bloom attracts bees because it produces honey buds.

Latin name: Stellaria nemorum. The herb is called owl potion. Unlike other types of grass, it is perennial and has a strong root that goes deep into the soil. The stems stand straight and reach a height of 60 cm. All branches and stems are pubescent. The leaves are decorated with eyelashes. The leaf shape is hearts. The flowers of the forest chickweed variety are not voluminous, but single. The fruits look like an elongated box, the doors of which open into 8-10 parts. In folk recipes, the herb is used against skin diseases and oncology. The plant has poisonous properties, therefore not used in tinctures and decoctions. Only surface treatment and lotion composition are allowed.

Latin name Stellaria graminea. Perennial grass. The stem branches and beautifully covers the ground. The tetrahedral stems rise above the ground to a height of 40 cm. The leaves are sharp and somewhat rough to the touch. Small white inflorescences cover the stem, forming large, numerous blooms. Healers' recipes use stems, leaves and flowers. Poisonous variety of Stelaria cereal. Therefore, all recipes are created for external treatment. Cannot be used internally. Helps with disorders in the female reproductive system. Another purpose of the herb is strengthening in adulthood, maintaining the activity of the blood flow of elderly patients.

Stellaria bungeana is the Latin name for the Bunge species. Perennial stellaria has a thin root and grows up to 50 cm in length. The description of the species does not differ from the main traditional one, but there are also features inherent only to this species. It is found in Siberia, the Far East, and the European territory of the eastern regions. The plant is an excellent honey plant.

In folk recipes, products created on the basis of flowers have various indications:

• diarrhea;
• rheumatism;
• swelling of the limbs;
• dermatomycosis;
• joint pain.

Chickweed Bunge has several broad spectrum healing effects:

• wound healing;
• stopping blood loss;
• saturation with vitamins;
• stimulating the actions of internal systems;
• relieving allergic reactions.

The Bunge variety in medicines reduces the amount of sugar (fresh grass) and eliminates the manifestations of stomatitis (dry mixture).

The bogweed bush is similar in appearance to other varieties of grass, but stands out in the shape of its leaves. They are short, up to 15.cm, elongated and reveal the beauty of the flowers. Small white petals are separated by green, bright and thin sepals. In medicine, properties for treating skin lesions have been identified.

Medicinal and beneficial properties of chickweed

The variety is used for food, adding as a component to salads and seasonings. Certain dishes help eliminate signs of developing scurvy and anemia.

The herb is taken for baths, which become a preventive measure for the health of the whole body. There is evidence of the effect of woodlice baths on the skin; they rejuvenate and strengthen. Compresses are made from the herb; for this, the woodlice is steamed. Externally, woodlice provides a healing effect for the following diseases:

• rheumatism;
• radiculitis;
• wounds;
• bruises;
• sprains;
• gout;
• acne.

The plant Chickweed is used in homeopathic preparations.

Its surface parts contain many useful microelements:

• Alkoloids: regulate the functioning of the nervous system, relieve pain, remove the gag reflex.
• Flavonoids: improve the condition of blood vessels, reduce the rate of development of sclerosis, enhance antioxidant properties, prevent the appearance of tumors by cancer cells, protect against histamine.
• Saponins: destroy the process of hemolytic activity. The blood becomes saturated and blood flow returns to normal.
• Lipids: provide an opportunity for physiological development. Energy saturation occurs, blood transportation increases.
• coumarins;
• phenol;
• carbon.

In addition, the plant is enriched with vitamin C, A, E, K, calcium, iodine and potassium salts.

The healing properties of woodlice (video)

Collection and preparation of chickweed

To prepare medicinal material, only the upper ground part needs to be prepared. The plant is harvested during abundant flowering, which is approximately mid-summer. A special place is prepared for drying. This could be a table installed on the veranda under a canopy. The grass should not be exposed to rain or direct sunlight. In addition, the raw materials must be ventilated, but not weathered. During drying, the grass becomes fine, almost powdery in consistency. It is placed in containers Several storage options are suitable:

• glass jar;
• fabric bag;
• plastic box.

The use of chickweed in folk medicine

Woodlice is used against so many pathologies that it is impossible to list them all. Recipes depend on the people and the area where the herb is collected.

In Belarus, herbal-based remedies are prepared against hemorrhoids, to stop bleeding, and hypovitaminosis. In Karelia they are creating compounds for the treatment of heart pathologies and liver diseases. Remove skin damage and enhance the functioning of the genitourinary system. Nanais treat swelling of the legs with woodlice.

Compress for pain in joints and knees

The grass is ground and applied in the form of porridge to the diseased areas. Tie with a bandage or cloth.

Infusions for heart pain

A handful of herbs is scalded with boiling water and left for 6 hours in a warm place or in a steam bath. Take 100 g with meals.

Chickweed tincture for joint pain

Fill the jar 2/3 full with grass, fill it to the top with vodka, and leave it in a dark place for a month. There is no need to shake the container. After 3 weeks, the herb is squeezed out and used for external wiping or as a compress.

Chickweed for thyroid treatment

The smaller the woodlice leaves are, the more useful substances it contains. To treat the thyroid gland, special raw materials are prepared from small leaves.

Chickweed juice

Helps against pathologies affecting the thyroid gland. Making juice is easy. Take an ordinary household device and squeeze out a healing drink. Before placing the herb in the juicer, collect it, wash it under running water and shake it to remove excess moisture. Then the herb is left on the table for a few minutes. When the moisture is released, you can begin to process the grass.

Recipe for creating a healing liquid:

• Collect grass early in the morning;
• Rinse under running water or in clean spring water;
• Pass through a meat grinder immediately after washing and collecting (The herb cannot be allowed to wither and lose its healing properties).

The pulp obtained after grinding is placed in cheesecloth and the juice is squeezed out. You can store the healing drink during the day in a cool place. Drink a teaspoon at the beginning of the day. The juice is always made fresh.

Juice from medicinal herbs

Together with woodlice they take motherwort and rose hips. All components must be the same quantity. Making juice is similar to creating a pure woodlice solution. The result of use is an improvement in the condition of the endocrine system. In some medical sources you can find advice on an effective complex. Juices are alternated every other day.

How to make chickweed salad (video)

Contraindications and harms of chickweed

There are no serious restrictions on the herb. It is not recommended to use the recipes for people with low blood pressure, as chickweed lowers it even more.

The genus chickweed will help get rid of the unpleasant symptoms of various diseases.

A flower bush will not take up much space in your garden plot and will not take up time to care for. Useful herbs will help strengthen the body, maintain youth and activity.

Chickweed(the second widely known name is “woodlouse”) is a perennial, less often an annual plant. It belongs to the genus of flowering plants from the carnation family.

Chickweed is characterized by creeping shoots, but there are also species without them. The stems of the grass are bare, sometimes hairy, and tetrahedral. Their length ranges from 10 to 30 cm. In the dominant majority of species, the leaves are sessile, linear-lanceolate or ovate.

The flowers are regular in shape, bisexual, small, reaching about 20 mm in diameter. Depending on the type, there are 4–5 sepals of lanceolate or lanceolate-ovate shape. The bracts are leaf-shaped or membranous. Petals are white.

The ovary of chickweed is unilocular. The fruit is a multi-seeded cylindrical capsule. The seeds are round, tuberculate.

The plant blooms from late spring to autumn.

Chickweed is widespread throughout the Northern Hemisphere. In Russia it can be found everywhere as an annoyingly growing weed.

It contains a large amount of Vitamin “C”, and what is quite unusual is that it contains carotene – provitamin “A”. These vitamins stop hormonal imbalances and restore thyroid function.

Used for thrombophlebitis, gastric and duodenal ulcers, and renal failure. Tincture in parallel will help cope with fatty hepatosis, remove excess radionuclides.

Mode of application:

Shake before use!

Take 20 - 25 drops 1 - 3 times a day.

Contraindications:

Individual intolerance, pregnancy, lactation.

Storage conditions:

After opening the package, store the bottle in the refrigerator.

During storage, slight sediment may form.

Chickweed tincture: what it treats, how to prepare, where to buy, medicinal properties

Chickweed- This is a plant that belongs to the clove family. It is not very tall, maybe only 10-30 cm in height, and is often used as a decorative flower in bouquets. However, it is very beneficial for human health and has a strong effect. In particular, the plant can eliminate ulcers, relieve pain, and remove harmful radionuclides from the body.

general information

Chickweed is the official name of the plant. They gave her this “name” because of the unusual shape of the flower petals. They really do have a star shape together. The leaves are small, but the flower looks very interesting.

The second name of this plant is woodlice. In popular councils it is used much more often, so many people think that these are completely different plants. And yet, chickweed is called that way. It blooms in late spring and until autumn. It is at this time that it is recommended to collect it until the healing properties go away.

Despite the fact that this plant is perceived as a weed, many healers extracted healthy juice from it, made decoctions and infusions back in the old days. With the right decoction, one could quickly restore the body after diarrhea, relieve rashes of various types, and improve the condition of blood vessels and heart function.

Despite the fact that there are a lot of records regarding the use of chickweed, scientists have not yet fully studied all the properties of the plant. And, nevertheless, it is recognized as healing, and is used in folk medicine and homeopathy.

What does chickweed treat?

Chickweed tincture can relieve many diseases and is also used as a disease prevention. She treats the following ailments:

• Rheumatism
• Liver pain, liver problems
• Gout
• Internal bleeding
• Heart problems
• Vascular diseases
• Thyroid diseases
• Diarrhea
• Edema
• Rash
• Pulmonary diseases
• Diseases of the stomach and intestinal tract

There are a number of other diseases that woodlice tincture can treat. However, this drug should be used under the supervision of a doctor. It is not poisonous, but can still be harmful if prepared or taken incorrectly. If you are not confident in your ability to prepare infusions, it is better to take a ready-made one made by an herbalist.

Medicinal properties of chickweed tincture

The most effective form of using this component is tincture. You can prepare it yourself, and then we will tell you how to do it, or you can buy it ready-made and not waste time. Although chickweed is a weed that farmers carefully remove, tincture from it has amazing medicinal properties:

• The ground part contains a lot of useful components, including carotene, vitamins C, E, essential oils, potassium salts, chlorine.
• It has an analgesic effect and relieves spasms.
• Eliminates stomach pain, is able to heal wounds, including ulcers, and is therefore effective for gastrointestinal diseases.
• Normalizes intestinal function.
• It is an expectorant, reduces fever, and is used to treat colds.
• Normalizes the functioning of the cardiovascular system, makes blood vessels elastic, flexible, and denser.
• It has a positive effect on the hormonal system, restores male and female health.
• It is a general strengthening drug.
• Able to eliminate allergic reactions, relieve itching, rashes.

These are not all the beneficial properties of chickweed tincture. Its main feature is that it affects the body non-aggressively, gently, and has no consequences. It is almost impossible to get poisoned by it, unless you significantly exaggerate the dosage. Correct use will give a positive effect, and all the beneficial properties will help the human body.

How to make your own chickweed tincture

Is it possible to prepare chickweed tincture at home? Yes you can, and this is not difficult to do if you choose the right ingredients and do everything according to the recipe. In the summer, you can collect this plant yourself if you know what it looks like and what biological characteristics it has.

Next, you should follow the recipes that we give you, and you can easily make the tincture at home. However, its preparation takes a lot of time and effort, and sometimes you need to start using it right away. You can order a ready-made infusion on our website and immediately begin treatment without waiting for your tincture to be made. And yet, if you decide to cook it yourself rather than buy the tincture, here are good recipes.

Recipe for making chickweed tincture

So, it is done as follows:

1. You should take 2 tbsp. raw materials. It must be fresh, just picked. Chop as much as possible by hand using a knife or scissors. Place in a container, preferably glass, and fill with very hot water. It will be required for this volume – 0.5 liters.
2. Cover with a lid and let it brew. It is worth stirring periodically so that the component distributes its substances evenly. This decoction should infuse for 4 hours.
3. After tincture, you need to strain thoroughly, and this is very important. Take gauze and roll it into several layers. If you use a sieve, it’s still worth straining a couple of times.
4. You need to take this infusion before eating, about 40 minutes. You need to take 3-4 doses a day, not more often, and the volume of one dose is a quarter of a glass.
5. This decoction is used not only internally, but also externally. You can make baths based on it, or lubricate wounds. It helps with purulent inflammation, joint pain, ulcers, and tumors.

This recipe is most common for home use, but there are several other effective tips that will help you use chickweed.

Preparation of a strong infusion of chickweed for diseases of the kidneys, gastrointestinal tract, lungs, and oral cavity

To prepare such an effective infusion, you need to use the following recipe:

1. Take 2 tbsp. crushed chickweed herbs. This can be done with scissors or a knife. What form it will be in is not important; you can use both fresh plants and dry stocks.
2. Pour boiling water over the required amount of the plant. In our case, you will need 400-450 ml of water, no more. The main thing is that it should be as hot as possible.
3. Let it brew for 1 hour. It is better to use glass rather than a metal container, but an ordinary jar can burst from boiling water, use it carefully. A little advice: in this case, it is better to pour water into it using a metal tablespoon. Then the can will not crack. After the product has infused, it should be strained and can be used.
4. It is taken 4 times during the day, the volume of one dose is 50 ml. In other words, this drug will last you for 2 days. The product will help with diseases of the lungs, gastrointestinal tract, oral cavity (can be used as a rinse), and as an antiseptic drug.

Decoction for external diseases

If you want to prepare a decoction that will be used as a lotion or rub, then you should use this recipe:

1. Take 8 tablespoons of chickweed. It must be pre-chopped, but whether it is dry grass or a fresh plant does not matter. This volume will require 2 liters of water.
2. You can put it in cold water first and let it boil, but it’s better to use hot water right away and not waste time. In addition, during boiling, beneficial substances from the plant will evaporate, and if you use boiling water right away, they will be preserved. And yet, the infusion should boil for 5-7 minutes over low heat.
3. Turn off the gas and let the broth brew for 2 hours. You can stir it periodically. Next, strain it to eliminate excess components, and as soon as the preparation has cooled, you can begin to use it.
4. The most effective method of application is lotions. They help with joint pain, wounds, tumors, abrasions, skin diseases of any nature, and allergic rashes.

Alcohol infusion of chickweed: how to prepare at home

The last recipe is prepared with alcohol. This tincture helps with pain in the stomach, intestines, disorders, and thyroid diseases. Prepare as follows:

1. Take 1 tbsp. raw chickweed, preferably fresh. Add 300-340 ml of vodka to it. Vodka must be purified and strong. It is advisable to use homemade, the degree of which is more than 40, optimally 55-70.
2. Leave the product to infuse for 2 weeks. It should be stored in a place where it is not hot, the rays of the sun do not penetrate, and out of reach of children. It is worth shaking the component periodically.
3. After tincture, strain thoroughly; it is better to use a sieve or double straining.
4. It is taken as follows: 20 drops, which can be drunk neat, or washed down with a small amount of water (no more than a sip). Only 1 appointment is needed per day, and the course of treatment is individual and prescribed by a doctor.

These are the basic recipes that you can use to prepare chickweed tincture at home. It would seem like a wild herb, a weed, but still very effective in treating many diseases.

Types of chickweed

If you decide to use this plant for home treatment, you should know that there are several types:

• Chickweed is medium. This herbaceous plant is usually annual, more often biennial. The herb of the plant is used as a medicinal raw material. Based on it, decoctions are made that help relieve pain, have an anti-inflammatory effect, and have hemostatic properties. In addition, such infusions are used to heal wounds and help establish metabolic processes. Healers use this type of chickweed most often; it is easy to find and does not require special preparation or care. Juice from it treats hepatitis, cholecystitis, vitamin deficiency, and many other diseases.
• Chickweed. The second name of this plant is owl potion. This plant, which can reach a length of 60cm, is beautiful, especially during flowering. It grows in forests and especially loves wet habitats. Its peculiarity is the ability to change, so no herbalist can reliably describe it. It is used quite rarely in folk medicine, as it requires a special approach to preparation. Only an experienced herbalist will be able to make the correct infusion; if you do it yourself, you can harm the body.
• Chickweed. This is a perennial herbaceous plant that reaches a height of up to 40cm. It has very thin roots and fragile stems. And in general, the plant itself is very fragile; if you touch it carelessly, it will immediately break. This plant blooms until June, and bears fruit until the end of July. You can find it in coniferous forests; it loves fertile soil and forest edges. This honey plant has a pleasant delicate aroma. However, it is not used in folk medicine. By the way, in the old days, decoctions for horses were prepared from it, which could poison the animal. And then the warriors could not use the vehicle.
• Forest chickweed. This is an interesting type of plant, its height reaches 60cm, and has fluffy shapes at the top. It is found quite often in our area, especially in shady forests, near streams or bushes. It is a valuable medicinal plant that is effective in treating skin diseases, including fungus. In Mexico, they generally treat cancer, but it is worth noting that this type of chickweed is poisonous, and its use is possible only under strict supervision.
• Chickweed Bunge. A plant with thin curly roots, up to 50 cm high. Its stems are fragile, but you should not pay attention to external weakness, because the plant is used in folk medicine. A decoction of this type of chickweed is used to treat swelling of the legs, ringworm, and other diseases.

These are the main types of plants that are used and that can be found. You can go look for them yourself, but it is important not to confuse the subspecies, otherwise you may prepare the wrong infusion that you need. Or you can not waste time and effort, and just take a ready-made tincture of chickweed from our herbalist. It is inexpensive, has many benefits, and is quite easy to use. It is universal and The standard method of application is:

1. 20-25 drops, preferably in pure form, if that doesn’t work, dilute with a small amount of water.
2. The dose is taken 1-3 times a day, not more often.
3. Shake the bottle before use.
4. Store in the refrigerator after opening.

As you can see, the tincture is very easy to use and gives excellent results.

Contraindications

Chickweed tincture has virtually no contraindications, however, you don't need to use it when:

• Pregnancy
• During lactation
• Personal intolerance to the component

If during use you notice a negative reaction, you should immediately consult a doctor and stop taking the drug. In addition, we strongly recommend using the tincture only on the recommendation of a doctor.

Drawing conclusions

Chickweed is a herb that many people underestimate. Despite the fact that many consider it a weed, it is a medicinal plant and helps get rid of many ailments. Preparing the decoction is quite simple; you can buy the tincture ready-made and start using it immediately. The main thing is to follow the instructions, and then your health will be at its best!

Chickweedgrass-like (cereal, drunken grass) -Stellaria graminea.

Class- Dicotyledonous.

The weed belongs to the clove family. This is an annual spring weed. May occur as a perennial. It is growing and developing everywhere. It heavily infests fodder, row crops, grain crops, pastures and meadows. Moisture-loving plant.

Chickweed is a very poisonous plant. After chickweed enters the body of animals, they experience damage to the respiratory system, weakness, and swelling.

The root system is branched. In perennial forms it turns into rhizomes. Stems are tetrahedral, glabrous. The height of the stems is 20-60 cm. The leaves are linear or lanceolate, pointed. The plant is more leafy at the bottom. The flowers are in spreading, multi-flowered inflorescences.

The fruit of the weed is a capsule. The capsule is elongated and multi-seeded. The seeds are small, round, pressed on the sides. The seeds are grayish-brown and brown in color. The surface is wrinkled and tuberculate. The length of the achene is from 0.7 to 1.25, width - up to 1.0 mm, thickness - 0.5 mm. The weight of 1000 seeds is about 0.3 g. Seeds that fall off do not germinate. Germination depth is 1 cm. Those shoots that are on the soil surface appear faster. The optimal temperature for seed germination is 18-20°C.

When fighting weeds, you need to carefully cultivate the soil. To improve the root part of meadows and pastures, it is necessary to carry out deep plowing with skimmers. Chickweed is resistant to commonly used herbicides. Only when using anti-cereal herbicides in the first stages of plant development can certain success be achieved.

Chickweed or drunken grass photo:

Chickweed - Stellaria graminea
Drunken grass - Stellaria graminea

The medicinal properties of woodlice herb are known not only in Rus', but also in many European countries. The herb is especially popular in Germany - here it is used to treat coughs due to pneumonia, bronchitis and tuberculosis, kidney inflammation, as well as non-healing wounds. In China, for example, it is an anesthetic medicine that relieves spasms in diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. And in Mexico it is a folk remedy for malignant tumors. Woodlice, also known as chickweed, was previously widely used in cooking. This was the first “green” that was used to support a weakened body after a long winter. It was used to make salads, add it to soups, and prepare fortified drinks. In addition, chickweed was given to domestic animals as a fortified supplement.

Features of woodlice

What is this herb? Where to look for it in nature? How did she deserve such “honor” in folk medicine? For what diseases is it effective and does it have any contraindications?

Chickweed.
Starwort is rigid-leaved, or lanceolate.
Chickweed Bunge.

Kinds

About 50 species of this plant are found on the territory of Russia (some sources give a different figure - 200 species). Chickweed, or chickweed, is the most common and valuable species, which is most often used as a medicinal raw material. What other varieties are known in folk medicine?

• Chickweed. People call it soapy, drunken grass. In addition to the European part, it is found in Siberia, the Caucasus and Central Asia. Unlike woodlice, the height of its stem can reach 40 cm. As a perennial weed, it colonizes fields, often grows in meadows, in damp forests, and loves the banks of reservoirs. It is a poisonous plant, so it is taken internally with great caution. The plant stimulates the functioning of the gonads in men and women. It is often used as a heart medicine, as well as for metabolic disorders and thyroid diseases. Externally - for abscesses. Useful for older people, acts as a tonic and restorative.
• Chickweed, or lanceolate. No matter what people call this plant - chickweed, kostenets, asterisk, clove, hemp, absinthium, crane grass, live, heart, love grass. A perennial plant, it also likes moist soil. More often it can be seen in forests and bushes. Refers to poisonous plants. In folk medicine, the aerial part and fresh juice are used. Useful for skin diseases - ulcers, scabies, non-healing wounds, bedsores, abscesses. Lotions and compresses are made from it. Decoctions, infusions, and fresh juice are taken internally. It relieves inflammation of the respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract, rheumatic pain, and helps with diseases of the cardiovascular system.
• Dubravnaya, or forest. It is poisonous, the height can reach 60 cm. It can more often be found in oak forests and other deciduous forests - in the European part of Russia. But this species is also common in North America (especially Mexico), the Caucasus, and Asia Minor. They treat cancer and fungal skin infections.
• Bunge. Perennial grass of high mountain, forest regions. Also found in meadows, river valleys of Siberia and the Far East. Widely used in folk medicine externally as an antiseptic, hemostatic and wound healing agent. Taken orally for diabetes, allergies, diarrhea, and joint diseases.

Not only a healer, but also a pest

For farmers, woodlice is a spring, annual weed that is difficult to control manually. The plant emerges in early spring and develops quickly. If it is not weeded out in time, it forms a beautiful but harmful carpet for useful seeds. Carrots, which take a long time to sprout, suffer most from chickweed. Woodlice loves moisture and often settles in vegetable beds with abundant watering. After weeding, it is not recommended to leave the weed in the beds; it is removed so that the seeds do not fall off (there can be about 10 thousand or more of them in one plant). Seeds can lie in the soil for several years and germinate safely every spring. Also, an uprooted plant will take root again if it comes into contact with damp soil.

However, some varieties of this grass are grown as an ornamental plant for their elegant flowers and continuous, beautiful carpet. It decorates flower beds and rock gardens.

Range of average chickweed

Where does woodlice grow? The plant loves a temperate climate and takes root well in northern regions. Some varieties can be found in high mountain subtropics. Most of the species are found throughout the European part of Russia, some take root in the Far East and Siberia. Woodlice feels good in dark places and moist soils. It grows near homes, in vegetable gardens and summer cottages. In the wild, its favorite places are damp glades and forest roads.

Chickweed is medium. Botanical illustration from the book “Bilder ur Nordens Flora” by K. A. M. Lindmann, 1917-1926.

Botanical characteristics of woodlice

This is an annual herbaceous plant. Its peculiarity is the formation of loose turf (carpets). The root system is weak, shallow, branched. The stems are thin, low (up to 10 cm), but at the same time they branch well and grow, covering the ground. The leaves are dark green; the petioles have hairs with which the plant absorbs moisture. Hence the name (due to the great love for water) - woodlice. The inflorescences of the plant are loose, few-flowered. The flowers are snow-white, small, star-shaped. It begins to bloom in May, blooms all summer, even in late autumn you can see delicate white stars on the green carpet.

There is another version of the origin of the name. A folk sign says: if the flowers of a plant have not opened in the morning after sunrise, it means it will rain. The woodlice plant responds to changes in humidity and air temperature. Gardeners jokingly call her the “rain predictor.”

Blank

It is preferable to collect grass in the spring, from the moment of flowering until the end of May. Collect the entire above-ground part of the plant, except for the roots. There are useful substances in the stems, leaves, and flowers. Dry, laying out in a thin layer, under a canopy. Do not allow sun exposure to raw materials. Dry grass is easily crushed by hand, after which it is packaged in linen bags. It can also be transferred to glass or porcelain dishes. Shelf life - 1 year.

It is important to remember: grass can accumulate heavy metals and other harmful substances from the air and soil. Therefore, it is so important to choose an environmentally friendly place to collect it.

Chemical composition and pharmacological action

What substances are included in woodlice?

• Rich composition of vitamins (C, E, A, K).
• Rich composition of microelements (especially a lot of potassium, magnesium, iron and cobalt).
• Saponins (toxic in large doses!).
• Lipids.
• Alkaloids.
• Essential oils.
• Tannins.
• Flavonoids.

What are the beneficial properties of chickweed herb?

• General strengthening.
• Hemostatic.
• Wound healing.
• Expectorant.
• Anti-inflammatory.
• Antimicrobial.
• Laxative.
• Tonic.
• Diuretic.
• Hypotensive (lowering blood pressure).
• Vasodilator.
• Secretory.
• Painkiller.

Indications

With such a wide pharmacological effect, woodlice in folk medicine, as well as in traditional medical practice, is used for many diagnoses and symptoms as an independent remedy and in complex treatment.

• Respiratory system . Abroad, woodlice was discovered as an effective expectorant by the German physiotherapist and priest Sebastian Kneipp. It helps well with pneumonia, bronchitis, softens and relieves coughing attacks.
• Diseases of the musculoskeletal system. The herb is useful for joints and muscles; it is used to treat osteochondrosis, rheumatism, arthritis, gout, myositis, and radiculitis.
• urinary system. In complex therapy, they treat diseases of the kidneys and bladder, promote crushing and removal of kidney stones, relieve swelling, and remove excess fluid from the body.
• Digestive system. Used for diseases of the liver and gall bladder as a secretion stimulant. The herb also helps with hemorrhoids, enterocolitis, and relieves spasms and colic.
• The cardiovascular system. Helps with high blood pressure, vegetative-vascular dystonia, cardiac ischemia.
• Endocrine system. Woodlice is effective for diseases of the thyroid gland, metabolic disorders, including diabetes. The herb stimulates metabolic processes, removes fluid, normalizes digestion - all these factors contribute to weight loss. Therefore, it is prescribed for weight loss.
• Gynecology. Taken orally for cycle disorders and premenstrual syndrome. For cervical erosion and leucorrhoea, douching and tampons are prescribed.
• External use. Effective in dermatology and allergology. It relieves inflammation and relieves pain well. Treats skin diseases of fungal, allergic, bacterial, traumatic nature: dermatitis, eczema, scabies, bedsores, non-healing wounds, trophic ulcers, etc. Also used externally for eye inflammation.
• Vitamin deficiency. The herb is often prescribed for the prevention of acute respiratory viral infections and influenza as a natural complex of vitamins and microelements, a natural immunostimulating drug. The plant benefits people who have suffered serious illnesses to restore strength, as an antiscorbutic remedy.
• Anemia. Due to the high content of potassium and iron, it has a beneficial effect on the hematopoietic system and increases hemoglobin.

You can find information about the antitumor properties of woodlice and its use for cancer. There is no scientific evidence for this. However, the herb can be useful at the stage of recovery of the body in combination with other remedies.

Woodlice has few contraindications. It should not be taken if you have an individual intolerance, as well as with low blood pressure and during exacerbation of chronic diseases. Consultation with a doctor in this situation is strictly required. The side effects of this plant have been poorly studied. However, it is known that it contains a lot of saponins, which accelerate the breakdown of red blood cells and are toxic. The instructions do not indicate use in pregnant women and children. This issue must be resolved individually with your doctor.

The use of chickweed in folk medicine

Treatment with woodlice grass does not always lead to the expected positive result. This remedy is often used with other herbs to enhance the healing effect. It is also important to know how to properly brew and ingest your herb.

Tea

Chickweed tea can be taken in its pure form, using fresh, crushed leaves or dry raw materials. But most often it is prescribed as a cough mixture.

Preparation of cough mixture

1. Take 1 tsp. herbs woodlice, primrose, centaury, plantain, horsetail, thyme.
2. Pour two cups of boiling water.
3. Leave for 10 minutes.
4. Strain.

Drink warm, 2 glasses a day.

Decoction

The use of woodlice herb can be useful in the form of a decoction. It is used for various purposes: for colds, coughs, joint pain, as an anti-inflammatory, diuretic, secretory, tonic. Externally used for washing wounds, douching, lotions, baths and compresses. Used for stomatitis, periodontal disease, gingivitis. The eyes are also washed with the decoction. Some herbalists indicate that the product can be dripped into the eyes for cataracts (due to diabetes), corneal clouding, and inflammatory processes. It is not worth risking your health, the product can be harmful: an acute allergic reaction of the mucous membrane to the grass is possible. Consultation with an ophthalmologist is necessary.

How to prepare a decoction

1. Take 2 tbsp. l. dry raw materials.
2. Pour 0.5 liters of boiling water.
3. Keep in a water bath for 10 minutes.
4. Strain.

Take ¼ cup orally 3-4 times a day (preferably before meals).

How to prepare a bath decoction

1. Take 300 g of woodlice.
2. Pour 1 liter of boiling water.
3. Leave for 2 hours.
4. Strain and pour into the prepared bath.

Alcohol tincture

Effective medicinal alcohol tinctures are obtained from chickweed. They are most often prescribed orally for all of the above-listed diagnoses in the list of indications. It especially helps with gastrointestinal diseases, relieves spasms and pain in the intestines. However, for stomach ulcers and all acute forms of diseases of the digestive system, you should definitely consult a doctor before starting treatment. The herb increases secretion, which can lead to the opposite effect.

How to prepare the tincture

1. Take 2 tbsp. l. raw materials.
2. Pour in 250 ml of vodka.
3. Leave for 2 weeks.
4. Strain.

Infusion

The infusion is prepared and used according to the same principle as the decoction. But it infuses longer, as a result of which it contains a high concentration of useful substances. It is often used externally as an antiseptic and anti-inflammatory agent.

How to prepare an infusion

1. Take 1 tbsp. l. woodlice.
2. Pour a glass of boiling water.
3. Leave for 6 hours.
4. Strain.

Take in the same dosage as the decoction.

Fresh Juice

Juice from chickweed is recommended for increasing immunity, hematopoiesis, cleansing the body and losing weight, lowering sugar and cholesterol levels. They treat diseases of the thyroid gland, liver, kidneys, heart, as well as hemorrhoids, constipation, migraines and other ailments. In pure and diluted form, it is used externally for the skin: it is used to treat purulent wounds, burns, and bedsores. It must be remembered that fresh juice can cause diarrhea and indigestion. It should not be taken without a doctor’s prescription and in large portions - 1 tsp. three times a day. It is recommended to dilute it with water and honey. Although you can find the opposite information: drink 100 ml of juice three times a day.

Juicing

1. Take 1 kg of fresh grass.
2. Pass through a juicer.
3. Pour into a glass container.
4. Store in the refrigerator for no more than 3 days.

It looks and tastes like cucumber juice (but not for everyone!). To improve the taste and increase shelf life, honey and lemon juice are added to the composition.

Cosmetology

In cosmetology, decoctions, infusions, and fresh juice are used to treat the skin.

• Alcohol tinctures can be used diluted for oily skin.
• Mokrichnik helps with acne, furunculosis, and acts as a strong antiseptic.
• The herb has rejuvenating and tonic properties, so it is used not only to treat problem skin, but also to prevent aging.
• For furunculosis and acne, it can be used internally to cleanse the body.
• Warm baths with a decoction of herbs help with calluses and cracked heels.
• For allergic rashes, a decoction of woodlice with a string is recommended.

Application in homeopathy

Stellaria media is a popular remedy in homeopathy. Tinctures are prepared from fresh raw materials, and granules are prepared from dry extracts. The dose and course of treatment are prescribed by a homeopathic doctor after a face-to-face consultation. Most often, this drug is recommended for rheumatism, gout, psoriasis, migraines, fatigue, irritability, drowsiness, acute pain in the joints and spine, liver diseases, constipation.

The herb woodlice is effective for inflammatory diseases of the respiratory system, digestion, and urinary system. It is used in endocrinology, dermatology and cosmetology. Thanks to the complex of vitamins and microelements, it is valued as a remedy for vitamin deficiency, anemia and scurvy.