Homers Herbs

What can we help you with?
< All Topics
Print

Shepherd’s Purse (Capsella bursa-pastoris syn. Thlaspi bursa-pastoris)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Brassicaceae
  • Common Names: Shepherd’s Purse, Lady’s Purse, Mother’s Heart, Toywort
  • Parts Used: Aerial parts (leaves, stems, flowers, seeds)

Description

Capsella bursa-pastoris is a small, hardy annual herb found in temperate regions worldwide. It is widely used in traditional herbal medicine for its hemostatic (blood-staunching) properties, particularly for menstrual irregularities, wound healing, and circulatory support.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used in European herbalism as a remedy for excessive menstrual bleeding and postpartum hemorrhage.
  • Traditionally employed as a wound-healing herb to stop bleeding and promote tissue repair.
  • Applied for kidney and urinary tract support, particularly for mild infections and bladder irritation.

Constituents

  • Flavonoids
  • Alkaloids
  • Tannins
  • Sulfur-containing compounds
  • Choline
  • Vitamins A, C, and K

Actions

  • Hemostatic (stops bleeding)
  • Astringent
  • Diuretic
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Uterine tonic
  • Circulatory stimulant

Medicinal Uses

1. Menstrual and Uterine Health:
Shepherd’s Purse is traditionally used to reduce heavy menstrual bleeding, postpartum hemorrhage, and excessive uterine bleeding.

2. Wound Healing and Bleeding Control:
Applied topically as a poultice or wash to stop bleeding from cuts, wounds, and nosebleeds.

3. Urinary and Kidney Support:
Acts as a mild diuretic, supporting urinary tract infections and bladder irritation.

4. Circulatory and Cardiovascular Support:
Stimulates circulation and may help regulate blood pressure.

5. Digestive and Anti-Inflammatory Benefits:
Traditionally used to tone the digestive system and reduce mild inflammation.

Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

  • 1-2 tsp of dried aerial parts per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10-15 minutes and drink up to 3 times daily.

Tincture:

  • 2-5 ml of tincture taken up to 3 times daily.

Poultice or Wash:

  • Fresh or dried herb infusion applied topically to wounds or bruises.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Not recommended due to its effects on uterine contractions.
  • Blood Pressure Concerns: May affect blood pressure; individuals with hypertension should consult a healthcare provider.
  • Blood-Thinning Medications: Use with caution if taking anticoagulants.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Traditional Western Herbalism: Cooling and drying; supports circulation and tones tissues.

Combinations

  • For Menstrual Support: Combine with raspberry leaf and yarrow.
  • For Wound Healing: Combine with plantain and calendula.
  • For Urinary Support: Combine with nettle and dandelion.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Best collected in spring or early summer when in bloom.
  • Drying: Air dry in a well-ventilated, shaded area.
  • Storage: Store dried plant material in an airtight container away from light and moisture.

Modern Research

Studies confirm Capsella bursa-pastoris’s hemostatic and circulatory-supporting properties, reinforcing its traditional use in herbal medicine.

Shepherd’s Purse remains a valuable herb in traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for menstrual health, wound healing, and circulatory support.