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How to Brew Chickweed Tea
Chickweed is Actually an Herb
One of the first weeds to emerge in the spring is Stellaria media, or more commonly known as that scourge of the lawn, chickweed. Since I am a Master Gardener, and very familiar will all types of weeds, I noticed a patch of it growing in one of my flower borders today as I was on the way to the mailbox. The weather here on the Delmarva Peninsula has been unusually warm for February, and Little Miss Chickweed has definitely used it to her advantage, spreading her tiny green self everywhere in the warm, moist soil. Unlike my neighbors, I do not use weedkiller on my lawn or in my flower beds. The dandylions flourish, and I have the delightful benefit of watching the goldfinches chomp on the white seed heads.
Anyone desiring to grow their own little patch of Chickweed to use for chickweed tea need only find one plant and either transplant it, or wait until the seedheads emerge with hundreds of seeds per plant. Simply sprinkle the chickweed seeds over moist soil and pat them down or sprinkle a bit of loose soil over them. This is a very invasive plant, so be mindful of where you plant it.
Chickweed Tea is Easy to Make
Because chickweed tea was featured on a recent Dr. Oz episode as a diet tea, and, as I am trying to lose a few unwanted pounds, I was actually looking for it so I could brew a cup of tea. Chickweed contains potassium and magnesium which reduces bloating and also acts as a detox. Dr. Oz recommends drinking 1 cup in the afternoon for maximum benefits.
CHICKWEED TEA
2 tablespoons fresh, finely chopped chickweed
1 cup boiling water.
Directions: Wash and dry freshly picked chickweed leaves. Chop fine and place in teacup. Pour boiling water over chickweed and allow to steep for 15 to 20 minutes.
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Comments
Knowing Dr. Oz, I am sure he didn't mention that chickweed also has side effects.
People who are allergic to daisies may also react to it.
Chickweed should not be used internally by pregnant or nursing women or be given to children.
Chickweed contains a natural chemical called nitrate. Nitrate can cause poisoning if taken in excess. Symptoms may include weakness, headache, fainting, bluish fingers and lips and dizziness.
You should not drink chickweed in large doses. This can cause muscle paralysis.
- Author
Only one cup is recommended per day. Many plants have dangerous chemicals, but we eat them every day, such as tomatoes which are related to deadly nightshade. Apple seeds contain cyanide, etc. As they say, "moderation in all things"...
Only one cup was recommended, but it was also said it was "totally safe". This gives the listening audience the idea anyone can drink it, when this is not true.
As pointed out, it isn't "totally safe" for certain people.
Also, for many people, they think because it is natural, they can drink more, which then causes issues.
I am a lover of teas, and this seems too easy to not try at least once! I love herbal teas, and hope to grow more herbs that can be made into tea over time. The idea of using a weed for tea is brilliant, I must try it! Thank you so much for sharing.
Never thought of making Chickweed tea. Will have to try it, especially if helps with weight loss. Thanks for writing this.
what about the dried leaves
how much to add and how long to steep?
I've never heard of chickwood tea, even though I try to stay on top of herbal remedies. This is a very interesting article.
- Author
You learn something new everyday, right? Thanks!
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