Weeds for Wellness | Medicinal Herb Store

For anyone who keeps a garden, weed control seems to be a constant struggle–especially if you try to tackle the problem without resorting to using harmful chemicals such as Glyphosate. Yet, many of the weeds which we try so hard to eliminate can actually be used for medicinal purposes. In this post, we will look at some of the most common weeds that you most likely have growing in your garden, which you could start using to promote good health.

Most of us have Dandelion growing in our yard; in our garden beds or on our lawns. Both the leaf and the root of the Dandelion plant have medicinal properties. The leaves have a high potassium content, and are used as a diuretic (i.e. to increase urine output and rid the body of excess fluid). The root is used as a liver tonic, both increasing bile production and liver enzyme activity. It also stimulates the appetite. Roast dandelion root is a popular caffeine-free alternative to coffee.

Stinging Nettle is considered by many to be a nuisance weed, due to the unpleasant stinging sensation it imparts upon anyone who touches the top side of the leaves. However, they provide a number of health benefits. The leaves are highly detoxifying, and are often used to remedy skin conditions such as eczema. They are high in vitamins and minerals, particularly iron, which makes them a popular herb for pregnant women. They are thought to provide some relief to sufferers of oesteoarthritis, too. The root of the nettle plant is used for prostate health, and for the improvement of urinary symptoms which have been caused by an enlarged prostate.

When it is steamed, the leaves of the stinging nettle lose their ability to sting, which makes it suitable for eating. My wife often makes pesto with steamed nettle leaves, which is not only delicious, but highly nutritious.

Recognisable by its spiky leaves and purple flowers, Milk Thistle is used for liver health. It acts as a protector against various toxins. It also stimulates the appetite and digestion, and acts as a detoxifier. Milk Thistle has also been shown to stimulate bone mineralisation, which can potentially protect against conditions such as oesteoporosis. For women who are nursing, Milk Thistle is one of the best herbs for boosting milk production, but stimulating the production of the hormone prolactin.

Shepherd’s Purse commonly grows in lawns and along the roadside. It gains its name from its small green fruit which is shaped like a heart, and looks like a small purse. It is commonly used for women’s health issues, particularly due to its anti-haemorrhagic effects. My wife is always certain to pack a Shepherd’s Purse tincture in her hospital bag before the birth of each baby, in the event that she experiences a postpartum haemorrhage. Its ability to control bleeding makes it a popular herb for women with heavy menstrual flows.

Purslane is a weed that most people would recognise, though they may not know the name of. Able to be eaten raw or cooked, Purslane is a succulent which contains around 93% water. It has red stems with small, green leaves. Slightly salty or sour in taste, it can be used in the same ways as lettuce or spinach, such as in sandwiches or salads.

With high levels of vitamin A, C and B vitamins, Chickweed is a wonderful source of iron and calcium. In fact, its high iron content makes it a common ingredient in over-the-counter iron supplements. Other than this, chickweed features frequently in topical ointments and creams for the relief of rashes, eczema or itchy skin.

Several weeks ago, we wrote a blog post about the benefits of Plantain. This weed, found in most lawns in Australia, contains phytonutrients that may reduce inflammation, improve digestion and promote wound healing. In particular, plantain is used for treating insect stings and bites. Chewing the leaves to activate their juices, then applying over an insect bite will often provide prompt relief from the pain.

While many people get frustrated at weeds finding their way into their garden beds, it is amazing just how many of them can be used to help us to improve our health. It is important to be sure that you have correctly identified the weeds you use for medicinal purposes, however. In some instances, they can have a very similar appearance to plants which are a completely different species, with different effects.

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