Shepherd’s purse (Capsella bursa-pastoris) is a widespread wild plant with a long history of use in various cultures. This common annual herb is valued for both its medicinal properties and its role as a food source. Its traditional applications have paved the way for modern interest in its potential benefits and diverse uses.
Understanding Shepherd’s Purse
Shepherd’s purse is a member of the mustard family (Brassicaceae) and is identified by its distinctive, heart-shaped or triangular seed pods, which resemble a shepherd’s traditional leather purse. This characteristic shape has inspired many of its common names, including “mother’s heart,” “pickpocket,” and “poor man’s parmesan.” It typically grows as a common weed in disturbed areas such as fields, gardens, roadsides, and even cracks in pavement, adapting to almost any soil type. The plant is believed to be native to Eurasia and has naturalized globally.
Key Health Benefits
Shepherd’s purse is valued for its hemostatic properties, helping to stop bleeding. It addresses conditions like nosebleeds, heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia), and postpartum hemorrhage. Research indicates its hemostatic action may involve vasoconstriction and pro-coagulant effects, potentially due to compounds like flavonoids, tannins, and vitamin K.
The plant also demonstrates anti-inflammatory effects, attributed to compounds like flavonoids and glucosinolates. Studies suggest it may reduce harmful compounds and interfere with inflammatory processes. This property has led to its use for joint pain and swelling.
Shepherd’s purse exhibits mild diuretic actions, promoting increased urine production and supporting kidney function. It aids in excreting phosphates and uric acid, and is used for conditions like gout, arthritis, and kidney stones. Its diuretic effect may also help flush bacteria from the urinary tract, making it useful for urinary tract infections.
Shepherd’s purse has traditional applications for digestive support. Its astringent qualities help to tone the mucous membranes of the digestive tract, making it useful for addressing issues like diarrhea and dysentery. Some herbalists also suggest its use for indigestion or gastritis, aiming to soothe irritation in the stomach lining. Additionally, it has been applied topically for wound healing due to its astringent and antimicrobial properties, aiding in reducing bleeding and promoting recovery.
How to Use Shepherd’s Purse
Shepherd’s purse can be prepared in several forms. A common method is to make a tea or infusion from the dried or fresh aerial parts. This involves steeping one to two teaspoonfuls of the herb in a cup of hot water, typically consumed several times a day.
Tinctures, which are concentrated liquid extracts, offer another way to use shepherd’s purse. These are usually taken in drops, with typical dosages ranging from 30 to 120 drops, or half to one teaspoon, up to several times daily. For topical applications, a fresh plant poultice or compress can be applied directly to cuts, wounds, or abrasions to help reduce bleeding.
Young leaves and seedpods are edible. They can be added raw to salads or cooked like other greens, especially in early spring before they became tougher. The seeds can also be ground and used as a seasoning in soups.
Potential Side Effects and Precautions
While generally considered safe when used in moderate amounts, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using shepherd’s purse, especially for individuals with existing health conditions or those taking other medications. This herb should be avoided during pregnancy, as it may stimulate uterine contractions and increase the risk of miscarriage or premature labor. Breastfeeding women should also avoid its use due to insufficient safety data.
Individuals with kidney disorders, particularly a history of kidney stones, should exercise caution as shepherd’s purse contains oxalates that can contribute to stone formation. Those with heart conditions or blood pressure issues should also be cautious, as the plant can affect blood pressure.
Shepherd’s purse may interact with certain medications, particularly blood thinners (anticoagulants) like warfarin, increasing the risk of complications due to its hemostatic properties. It can also interact with diuretics. Discontinue use at least two weeks before any scheduled surgery to prevent interference with blood clotting. Allergic reactions are rare but possible, particularly for those with allergies to Brassicaceae family plants like cabbage or mustard.