Shepherd's Purse
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Dysmorodrepanis" title="User:Dysmorodrepanis"> Eike Wulfmeyer</a> (CC BY-SA 2.5)
NameShepherd's Purse
Scientific NameCapsella bursa-pastoris
Common NamesShepherd's Purse, Mother's Heart, Witch's Pouches, Caseweed
Plant FamilyBrassicaceae
Natural HabitatThis plant thrives in disturbed soils, often found as a weed in gardens, fields, roadsides, and waste ground across temperate regions worldwide. The image shows it growing at an urban roadside in Cologne, Germany.
Parts Usedwhole_plant
Medicinal Actionsastringent,diuretic,anti-inflammatory,antioxidant
Traditional UsesTraditionally used to stop bleeding, particularly uterine hemorrhages, nosebleeds, and blood in urine. It has also been employed as a diuretic for urinary tract issues and to regulate menstruation.
Active Constituentsflavonoids, peptides, choline, saponins, glucosinolates
Preparation Methodsinfusion,tincture,powder
Contraindications & WarningsShould be avoided during pregnancy due to its uterine stimulant properties. Caution is advised for individuals with heart conditions or those taking anticoagulant medications due to potential interactions.
Cultivation NotesShepherd's Purse is a prolific self-seeder and generally considered a weed, requiring no specific cultivation. It tolerates a wide range of soil types and conditions, preferring full sun to partial shade.
Raritycommon
Description
Shepherd's Purse is a common annual or biennial herb characterized by a basal rosette of deeply lobed leaves and a slender stem reaching up to 50 cm tall. It produces small white flowers in a raceme, followed by distinctive heart-shaped or triangular seed pods resembling old-fashioned purses.
