Description: Chickweed is a low, spreading annual with opposite, ovate leaves from about 1/4 inch to 2 inches long. The stems are mostly hairless and weak and sprawl over the ground and other vegetation. The white flowers are tiny and often inconspicuous with five petals. In some Stellaria species the petals are deeply cleft and appear to be 10. Stellaria is a variable genus but mostly fits within the above description. many species also go by the name starwort.Ecology: Chickweed is a plant of moist places and meadows. S. media is an introduced weed from Europe but native Stellarias have most of the same properties.
Edible: Chickweed is a well known wild edible. The plant can be eaten raw or cooked and has a mild flavor. One of the best things about chickweed as an edible green is that in mild climates it is available year-round.
Medicinal: The fresh herb or tea can be used a laxative. It is gentle but can be strong so start with a small dose. It is also reputed to be useful as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory for GI disorders.
Useful: Saponins in the plant might be useful as a weak soap substitute. Also, the toxic nature of saponins lead many tribal groups to use saponin-containing plants as fish poison.
Possible Hazards: Chickweed leaves contain saponins which are toxic to most animals. Fortunately saponins they are not easily absorbed by humans and in moderate quantities are entirely safe. It is probably not a good idea to eat chickweed in large quantities.
For more information see Plants for a Future Stellaria media
No comments:
Post a Comment