Shepherd’s Purse

(Capsella bursa-pastoris) Part used: Tops. Properties: Astringent, diuretic, stimulant. What it affects: Kidneys, bladder, and blood.

Preparation and amount: Infusion: Steep 30 min. Take 6 oz. 1-2 times daily. Tincture: 20-60 drops 1-2 times daily. Fluid extract: 1/4 – 1/2 tsp. 1-2 times daily.

Purposes: Shepherd’s purse is an outstanding blood coagulant which can be used to stop internal or external bleeding. Internally, it is an excellent astringent which will stop bleeding of the lungs, colon, kidneys, and bladder. The tops should be used fresh for this purposes, but an infusion of dried herb can also be used. It is also good for excessive menstrual bleeding and bed-wetting. Because it acts to constrict the blood vessels, it raises blood pressure. But it will also regulate blood pressure and heart action, whether the pressure is too high or too low.

• It is good for intermittent fevers, hemorrhoids, and especially good for stopping diarrhea. It promotes uterine contracts during childbirth and can improve intestinal and bowel action. Steep 1 tsp. fresh or 2 tsp. dried herb in 1/2 cup water. Take 1 cup a day, unsweetened, a mouthful at a time.

Externally, put the juice in an ear to stop pain. Doing this will also stop strange noises in the ear. It is also used in washes and poultices for wounds on the body and especially on the head. It will stop surface bleeding.

 
Note: Do not store shepherd’s purse longer than a year.