Shepherd`s purse

Capsella bursa-pastoris

NL: Herderstasje - F: Bourse de capucin

This little plant is another cosmopolitan. I have found it growing in many places throughout Europe, from warm and dry Spanish hills to the chilling plateaus in Norway. It is considered to be a top herbal remedy against haemorrhages (bleedings) of all kinds, internal and external. A tea made from the whole plant is antiscorbutic, haemostatic, hypotensive, stimulant and vulnerary. It is also used to relieve premenstrual syndrome, wounds and burns.

Rich in iron, calcium and vitamin C, the young leaves, harvested before the plant comes into flower, make a delicious addition to salads. The young flowering shoots can be eaten raw or cooked.

They can be available at most times of the year. Its seeds can also be consumed, raw or cooked. It can be ground into a meal and used in soups. The seedpods can be used as a peppery seasoning for soups and stews. The fresh or dried root is a nice ginger substitute.

Its internal use should be avoided by those suffering thyroid problems, by those with high blood pressure as well as during pregnancy.

Here you can watch a useful video on identifying Shepherd's Purse:

Wild Edibles - Shepherd's Purse, by Survival Circle

In the video below you get detailed information on Shepherd's Purse:

Capsella bursa-pastoris: Survival Plants Memory Course

In the following video you'll get more information on how to use to stop bleedings:

Stop Bleeding with Shepherd's Purse - WitchOdaWoods