Shepherd’s Purse: The Humble Weed with Big Benefits
Shepherd’s Purse is one of Kansas’ many prolific weeds. This hardy little plant can hold its own and is definitely worth getting to know.
This one is almost as abundant as Lambs Quarter in our yard. And when I say “almost,” it’s only because Lambsquarter has completely taken over my yard. But let me tell you, Shepherd’s Purse is not far behind.
If you haven’t noticed, I’m pretty fond of weeds. Not the annoying ones that wreck your garden plans, but the kind that grow effortlessly, thrive in less-than-ideal conditions, and are packed with benefits—without costing you a dime. Shepherd’s Purse is a prime example.
What Makes Shepherd’s Purse Special?
This hardy little weed starts blooming in the spring and keeps going strong through the summer.
Its name, Capsella bursa-pastoris, comes from the shape of its seed pods. “Capsella” means “little capsule” and “bursa-pastoris” translates to “the shepherd’s purse,” referencing the pouches that shepherds once carried.
Shepherd’s Purse is a very old plant with a fascinating history. Its seeds were discovered during the excavation of Catal Huyuk, a Neolithic settlement in what is now Turkey.
Once it made its way to North America, it was used by colonists and Native Americans for diarrhea, dysentery, stomach cramps, worms, and as a food plant.
Nutritional Qualities
The young spring greens have for centuries been used as food, and the seeds, with their spicy peppery taste, served as a substitute for pepper when it was unavailable. And those seeds were roasted and ground into a meal for baking a Native American bread called pinole.
As an edible, the arial parts (everything above ground) contain minerals such as potassium & calicum and vitamins such as Vitamin K which can help with clotting.
Use it in pestos, soups. salads, or sauteed with other greens. The leaves have very small hairs, so it’s best to mince them small if you use them raw.
Used in a soup they can help stimulate circulation & encourage expectoration and moisten mucous membranes.. Might be a good one to add to a chicken soup or broth for the cold & flu season.
Shepherd’s Purse Medicinal Uses
This plant has an action similar to yarrow, particularly in its ability to address bleeding. It has a special affinity for uterine bleeding and has been used by mid-wives for ages. Its even mentioned in “The Pharmacology of the Newer Materia Medica” (1892), which suggests that for nosebleeds resistant to other treatments, simply holding a handful of Shepherd’s Purse in the hand on the side of the bleeding could stop it. And externally, an infusion or compress is a simple yet highly effective treatment for minor wounds.
Shepherd’s Purse has been called a vasoconstrictor with a particular affinity for smooth muscles, such as those in the uterus and GI tract. It has been used to regulate menstrual flow for women of all ages and is particularly helpful for those experiencing heavy bleeding during their cycle. However, it is not intended for regular, long-term use. It’s best used as needed for short periods, typically a few days to a week.
Use a poultice to help relieve joint pain and to speed up the healing of bruises and sprains.
Precautions & contraindications
Importantly, Shepherd’s Purse is contraindicated for pregnant mothers when used internally.
The vasoconstrictive actions may increase blood pressure in individuals with fluctuating high & low blood pressure (labile hypertension). And it should be avoided by individuals with kidney disease or kidney failure, as well as those using kidney damaging medications.
External applications for wounds are acceptable and can be quite beneficial.
A note about making tinctures
Shepherd’s Purse is one of those plants that defies the typical rule for tinctures. While most tinctures can last for decades thanks to the alcohol’s preservative qualities, Shepherd’s Purse loses its potency more quickly. It’s best to use it within 1 to 2 years after making the tincture. A fresh plant tincture works particularly well with this herb, but be sure to let the plant wilt overnight before preparing it.
Foraging tips
If you’re inspired to find some Shepherd’s Purse for yourself, here’s an important reminder: Always know 100% what you’re picking before using it. Grab a good field guide or ask someone knowledgeable about local plants to confirm your find. Safety first, always.
These leaves could almost be mistaken for dandelion. But you’ll notice there is more than one stem coming from this plant (see arrows) and they don’t grow straight up the middle. The leaves are not toothed either, although it’s hard to see that in this picture. They are more like leaflets coming from the stem.
Why learn about weeds like Shepherd’s Purse?
Plants like this are abundant, free, and incredibly versatile. They’re not fussy about where they grow, which means they’re available to almost anyone. To me, that’s the beauty of weeds. They’re the ultimate underdogs, quietly offering their benefits to anyone willing to give them a chance.
So next time you’re out and about, keep an eye out for this unassuming little plant with heart-shaped seed pods. It might just become one of your favorites, too.
