Chickweed and how to use it

Chickweed (Stellaria media)

Chickweed is a  well-known garden weed and also found in the wild. It can be used as salad greens, in smoothies, pestos, patés, soups and stews. It’s almost available all year around. The entire plant is edible and is rich in calcium, potassium, phosphorus, iron, manganese, copper, Vitamin C, B vitamins and even protein.

The fresh leaves have cooling properties and have been used for reducing inflammation and for drawing boils. Chickweed is also good for itching skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, nettle rash, nappy rash etc. 

An infusion of the fresh or dried herb may be added to the bath to reduce inflammation and might be helpful for joint pain. Chickweed ointment is useful for burns and scalds, insect stings and for itchy skin conditions.

Tip: The easiest way to harvest is with scissors. Always pick fresh tender leaves!

How to make a chickweed ointment

 An ointment contains only oils and fats, but no water and unlike cream it does not blend with the skin but forms a separate layer over it.

 Ingredients

• 6 handfuls of fresh herb or half the amount of dried herb

• Olive oil

• 1oz/30g beeswax to every ½ pint/275ml of oil

 Method

Initially take 3 handfuls of fresh or half the amount of dried herb and put in a glass bowl and cover with olive oil. Place glass bowl over pan of boiling water or in use a double saucepan, and heat gently for 2 hours.

Strain off the oil, discard herb and then add the remaining 3 handful of fresh herb (or half the amount of dried herb) to the oil. Repeat the process. Grate 1oz/30g of beeswax or use beeswax pellets for every ½ pint/275ml of oil and melt over gentle heat.

Immediately pour into cream jars, leave lids loosely on and once cooled tighten lids. Label and store in a cool dark place.