Star Chickweed

Considered a weed by most and an obnoxious one at that by traditional gardeners, it is also known as starweed, starwort, tongue grass, winter weed, passerina, chick wittles, clucken wort, skirt buttons, and stitchwort. Cultivation is unnecessary, as plants self-seed themselves freely especially in dry weather. The flowers open on sunny days, but they may close on rainy or cloudy days. Chickens, hogs and rabbits dote on its succulent, foliage and seeds, but it is said that sheep and goats won’t touch it. If you raise rabbits, it would be a great, cheap and easy way to add to their diet. Historically Chickweed has been used to treat both internal and external inflammations. Poultice of stems and leaves can be used to ease arthritis and pains of the joints, cuts, and skin irritations. It may soothe severe itchiness and is often used to relieve eczema, varicose veins and nettle rash. An infusion of the fresh or dried plant may be added to a bath, where the herb’s emollient properties will help reduce inflammation, in rheumatic joints for example, and encourage tissue repair, something we could all use! As far as being a culinary herb, Chickweed can be eaten raw in salads and sandwiches but be certain to harvest only the young tender stems and leaves since the greens are at their best during this stage. Just another way to utilize those so-called "pesky weeds" you can find in your garden. And Remember ALWAYS be certain that when you are picking herbs for consumption that you KNOW they have not been doused with chemicals or pesticides.