Stellaria media (L.) Vill.
Summary
Chickweed (Stellaria media) is a creeping herb 0.1-0.5 m long of the Caryophyllaceae family, native to Europe and now distributed across nearly the entire world. In Japan, this plant is one of the symbolic ingredients of the spring festival dish, while elsewhere its leaves are eaten raw as a salad ingredient. Chickweed is traditionally used as a cooling remedy for bruises, boils, and insect bites.
Agroecology
Chickweed generally prefers wet or moist places such as ditches and seasides but can also survive in fairly dry places such as lawns, waste areas, and open areas, at elevations of < 1,500 m above sea level. Flowering time is from February to September.
Morphology
- Stem thinly hairy, slender, many-branched, green in color.
- Leaves light green, opposite, oblong-shaped, pointed tip, hairy near the base.
- Flowers white, star-shaped, 8-10 mm wide, with 5 curved petals. Stamens usually number 3-7. Flowers form a hairy capsule.
- Seeds dark reddish-brown, rounded tubercles, 0.9-1.3 mm in size.
Cultivation
Propagated using seed and stem cuttings. Has a fast reproductive cycle.
Chemical Content
Flavonoid, carotenoid, alkaloid, essential oil (borneol, menthol, linalool, 1,8-cineole), terpene (epoxy-dehydro-canophyllene, monoterpene alcohol-ester, caryophyllene).
Benefits
Remedy for constipation, stomach ache, blood disorders, asthma, obesity, vitamin C deficiency, bruises, addresses skin disease, boils, wounds (ulcers), muscle and joint pain, and insect bites.
Simplisia
- Prepare the whole plant and clean off attached dirt with running water.
- Air-dry the plant material, once dry grind using a blender into powder.
- Store in a sterile, airtight container.
Local Names
No information found. Further research needed.
Traditional Recipes
The following recipes reflect traditional knowledge passed down through generations, not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis or advice. Consult a healthcare provider before use.
1. Infused oil
- Chop 100 g fresh chickweed leaves and let sit for 24 hours until wilted.
- Mix with 270 ml coconut oil and blend until fine.
- Heat until warm. Turn off the heat and let the mixture sit for 3 hours. Repeat until a green-colored oil is obtained, strain, the oil is for external use only.
2. Reducing inflammation and pain
- Prepare 300 g chickweed leaves, wash thoroughly.
- Boil with 710 ml water and simmer over medium heat for approximately 10 minutes. Strain the leaves and enjoy as tea.