Contemporary herbalist recommend dried shepherd's purse internally for bloody urine (urinary tract infection), nosebleeds, bleeding after childbirth and diarrhea and externally to treat wounds and hemorrhoids.
More than 300 years ago, Nicholas Culpepper wrote: “Few plants possess greater virtues than this, and yet it is utterly disregarded”. Some authorities say no one is interested because this common weed is medically worthless. But the few studies done to date have revealed intriguing possibilities for treating bleeding and inducing labor.
Shepherd's purse was introduced into North America by the pilgrims where it quickly became a weed. Folk herbalist used it to stop bleeding, however, physicians dismissed it as useless.
People with ulcers, colitis, Crohn’s disease, or bleeding disorders might try this herb in consultation with their doctor.
Shepherd's purse also has minor anti-inflammatory astringent action; which lends some credence to its traditional use for wounds and hemorrhoids.
To use shepherd's purse externally on wounds or hemorrhoids, soak a clean cloth in either a tincture or infusion. Apply to thoroughly cleaned wound.
The medical literature contains no reports of harm from shepherd's purse. However, as with all herbal nutrition supplements, shepherd's purse supplements should only be used in amounts typically recommended for medicinal purposes and you should always consult with a health professional first, especially if you are pregnant, nursing or taking prescription medications.
CHEMICAL & NUTRIENT CONTENT:
Acetylcholine, protein, rutin, vitamins A, C and K, calcium, iron, potassium, sodium and sulfur.
Shepherd's purse plant is an annual that reaches 18 inches in height. Its leaves are very similar to the dandelion. The stem bears a few small leaves and terminates in small white flowers. The fruits are wedge shaped seed pods, containing thousands of yellow seeds.
Shepherd's purse grows easily from seeds planted in spring in full sun. It prefers well drained sandy soil. If unattended it will become a garden and lawn pest. To avoid this, clip the seed pods before they open.
Shepherd's purse is very foul smelling. The young leaves have a peppery taste and may be added to stews and soups or eaten like spinach. Harvest the leaves and flower tops as the flowers open.
Other herbs containing hemostatic actions include comfrey, horsetail, mullein, psyllium and red raspberry.
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