Chickweed

(Stellaria media)

Other Names:
Adder's mouth, mouse ear, passerina, satin flower, starweed, starwort, stitchwort, tongue-grass, winterweed

Range:


Family:
Caryophyllaceae - Carnation Family

Growth Type:
A low inconspicuous Herbaceous Perennial plant which forms dense mats in sunny exposed areas of lawns and waste areas.

Height:
3 - 7 inches tall

Leaves:
The leaves grow in opposite pairs, and on some species may also be hairy.

Stem/Trunk:
The stem can be up to 18" long, and has a delicate line of hair along its length.

Root:
Fibrous root mass

Flower Season:
Summer

Flower Appearance:
Flowers are small and white, followed quickly by the seed pods. This plant flowers and sets seed at the same time. The flower appears to have 10 petals, but if you look closely, you will see that there are actually 5 double lobed petals.

Seed/Fruit:
Seed pods

Miscellaneous characteristics:
N/A

Habitat:
Yards, parks, and waste places throughout North America

Parts Used:
Leaves and flowers

Culinary Uses:
All chickweed species can be eaten in salads or as cooked greens. Stellaria media, the images shown on this page, you must boil the leaves and stems to remove the hairs. Some species have fewer hairs, so they can be eaten raw in salads or as a trail nibble. Chickweed is a powerhouse superfood. The leaves are rich in protein, fat, fiber, carbohydrates, and various dietary minerals. Chickweed is one of the nutrient-dense plants that contains 16 essential amino acids of the total free amino acids (27.27%) and total bound amino acids (48.05%) in their aerial parts. The protein requirement from the chickweed is complete as compared to other green leafy vegetables. The leaves are also appraised to contain minerals such as calcium, iron, copper, zinc, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, and sodium. The leaves are rich in vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, C, E, and rutin. (Singh et al., 2022)

Energetics
Taste: Salty
Thermal: Cooling
Humidity: Moistening

Traditional Medicinal Uses:
Teas and infusions made from this plant is traditionally used as a cooling demulcent and expectorant to relieve coughs. It has also been shown to purify the blood and lymphatic system. An infused oil, or ointment of chickweed can be applied externally for skin diseases and to allay itching. Anti-inflammatory. Also said to curb obesity when eaten or taken as a tea. Chickweed' emollient action makes it an excellent additions to any salve or ointment.

Medicinal Actions:
Anti-Inflammatory, Antirheumatic, Emollient, Pectoral, Vulnerary