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Chickweed

Also indexed as:Stellaria media
Chickweed: Main Image© Steven Foster
Botanical names:
Stellaria media

Parts Used & Where Grown

The small, green chickweed plant originated in Europe, but now grows across the United States. The leaves, stems, and flowers are used medicinally.

  • Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
  • Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
  • For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.

Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.

For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.

This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:

Used for AmountWhy
Breast-Feeding Support
Refer to label instructions as Chickweed Topical1 star[1 star]
Chickweed is a soothing herb that can relieve sore nipples. Experts recommend moistening the herb with boiling water, wrapping it in gauze, and applying to the breasts.
Eczema
Refer to label instructions 1 star[1 star]
Topical preparations containing calendula, chickweed, or oak bark have been used traditionally to treat people with eczema.
Insect Bites and Stings
Refer to label instructions 1 star[1 star]
Chickweed is sometimes used topically to alleviate itching secondary to insect bites. It contains relatively high amounts of vitamins, which may partly explain its use as a topical treatment for skin irritations and itching.
Poison Oak/Ivy
Refer to label instructions 1 star[1 star]
Chickweed has been used historically to treat skin inflammations such as poison oak and poison ivy.

Traditional Use (May Not Be Supported by Scientific Studies)

Chickweed was reportedly used at times for food.1 It enjoys a reputation in folk medicine for treating a wide spectrum of conditions, ranging from asthma and indigestion to skin diseases such as eczema and psoriasis. It is sometimes used to alleviate itching secondary to insect bites.

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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2024.