This annual or short-lived perennial has straggling, succulent stems with paired leaves and numerous tiny white flowers. To collect this herb it is easiest to keep it weeded as its growing. Gather up the whole herb, roots and all for drying. Containing anti-inflammatory properties, chickweed is popularly used to promote healing and soothe irritated tissues. Chickweed provides antibiotic agents that are beneficial for relieving urinary tract inflammation and cystitis.
Chickweed contains vitamin A, vitamin C, some B vitamins, calcium, phosphorus, potassium and zinc.
Chickweed provides the body with nutrients that are necessary for balancing metabolic functions, and it also contains fiber, which helps improve digestion and relieve constipation. Chickweed is very high in vitamins and flavonoids, and was once used as food. The fresh leaves have been employed as a poultice for inflammation and indolent ulcers with most beneficial results. A poultice of Chickweed enclosed in muslin is a sure remedy for a carbuncle or an external abscess. The water in which the Chickweed is boiled should also be used to bathe the affected part.