Shepherd’s Purse

Capsella bursa-pastoris

Hemostatic, Gastrointestinal (Gi), Urinary tract, Uric Acid, Anti-inflammatory, Anti-bacterial

Hemostatic – can stop heavy bleeding (high vitamin K content) – heavy uterine bleeding, hemorrhage of the urinary tract, postpartum hemorrhage, Gi hemorrhage, lung & kidney bleeding, hemorrhoids bleeding; Tincture is used primarily, tea from dry plant is not as potent – double the dose in acute situation. In combination with Collinsonia root it aids in hemorrhoid bleeding and can shrink the hemorrhoids.

Gi – diarrhea, dysentery

Urinary tract– disinfectant – UTI, cystitis,  kidney (diuretic)

Uric Acid – lowers uric acid – stones

Anti-bacterial – it has strong anti-bacterial properties (antibiotic) – disinfectant (UTI, burns, wounds,…)

Anti-inflammatory – significant anti-inflammatory properties, rheumatism

It is soothing for urogenital pain from sexual activity and seminal vesicle irritation in men. It also has Anti-inflammatory and Anti-pyretic (reduces fever) properties. It is known to be used for diarrhea. It aids to jaundice (poultice used on soles of feet and wrists).

Used: whole plant

Dosage: 1/4-1/2 teaspoon 2-3 x/day – tincture (prepared from the fresh plant), poultice can be placed on wounds to stop the bleed; tea (from fresh or dry herbs) 4x/day

Seed pods resemble heart-shaped purses. It belongs to a mustard family and it is considered a weed. If consumed by poultry, the yolks of their eggs become darker and more richer.