The fruits of shepherd’s purse resemble the purses of shepherds in ancient times, which has given the plant its name. Honoring what its name represents—a purse with which one travels—this plant is one of the most widely known. It is found along the coast and at 2000 meters high in the mountains, in cold climates of central and northern Europe, and tropical areas of the Americas and Asia.
- Shepherd’s purse (Capsella bursa-pastoris) herb liquid extract or tincture concentrated 1:10. 100% natural, alcohol and sugar free. MADE IN ITALY.
- A NATURAL AID: Shepherd’s purse liquid herbal supplement in drops. 40 drops (2 ml) contain 2.3 g of Shepherd’s purse extract (1:10). Glyceric macerate or pure fluid extract of Shepherd’s purse (Capsella bursa-pastoris) herb in drops.
Although it is regarded as a native of the Mediterranean countries, its seeds’ ability to travel and adapt to any soil has made it one of the most widespread plants in the world.
Shepherd’s Purse Scientific Facts
- Other names – Cocowort, pick-pocket, St. James weed, shepherd’s heart, toywort.
- Scientific name – Capsella bursa-pastoris L.
- French – Bourse a pasteur.
- Spanish – Bolsa de pastor.
- Environment—Although it is Spread worldwide, it is more common on farmed lands (it is regarded as a weed), roadsides, and along old walls.
- Description—This annual plant of the Cruciferae family grows up to 50 cm high. Its leaves grow as a rose near the soil, with small, white flowers. The fruit is triangle-shaped, flat, and slightly salty.
- Parts of the plant used medicinally – The whole plant.
Healing Properties
The whole plant contains biogenic amines (choline, acetylcholine, and tyramine, among others), which act on the autonomic nervous system, producing contraction of arterioles, the uterus, the intestine, and other hollow organs. Its properties are the following:
- Hemostatic – (Stops hemorrhages). The substances this plant contains contract small bleeding arteries. Moreover, shepherd’s purse is rich in flavonoids of the diosmin type (an active component of several pharmaceutical preparations), increasing the capillary walls’ endurance and promoting returning venous blood flow.
- Oxytocic – It contracts the uterus and collapses blood vessels, causing bleeding in its interior.
- Digestive tract invigorating – Shepherd’s purse caused the intestines to recover their muscular tone and peristaltic contractions (which make the intestinal bolus progress inside the intestine).
Because of these interesting therapeutic properties, shepherd’s purse is a valued plant, useful for diverse diseases, as we note here:
- Uterine hemorrhages (metrorrhagia) – This is a crucial application since it stops both too-abundant menstruation in some teenagers, which appears soon after their first menstruation (menarche), and uterine bleeding, which sometimes occurs in menopause. That is to say, shepherd’s purse is suitable for both mother and daughter. However, we have to remark that it is necessary to undergo a gynecological examination to be sure that the causes of these disorders do not include tumors, anatomic alterations, or other uterine causes of bleeding.
- Epistaxis (nose bleeding)—In this case, it can be locally applied in addition to taking an infusion of this plant for some days. The method uses a noseplug soaked in the infusion to put into the bleeding nostril. It can also be applied to skin wounds and bleeding sores.
- Labor acceleration for uterine atony or weakness. Its action resembles ergotamine, an alkaloid extracted from rye ergot, but with fewer side effects.
- Intestinal atony – Shepherd’s purse is helpful to combat intestinal atony produced during convalescence from fever or infectious disease and for the frequent cases of constipation caused by intestinal laziness.
- Low blood pressure – It is recommended for those suffering from low and skinny women.
This herb is a fantastic blood coagulant inhibiting external or internal bleeding. It is an excellent internal astringent that can stop bleeding from the bladder, kidneys, colon, and lungs. For this purpose, fresh plant tops are best used, and an infusion of dried herbs can also be employed. It is also helpful in treating bedwetting and excessive menstrual bleeding. Because of its ability to constrict blood vessels, it will increase blood pressure. However, it can also regulate heart action and blood pressure, whether too high or low.
Shepherd’s purse is also suitable for hemorrhoids and intermittent fevers and is specifically good for halting diarrhea. It can improve intestinal and bowel action and promote uterine contracts during childbirth. Steep one teaspoon fresh or two teaspoons dried herb in ½ cup water and take one cup daily, unsweetened, a mouthful at a time.
Externally, place the juice inside an ear to stop earaches. This remedy can also halt strange noises in the ear. The plant is also used in poultices and washes for wounds on the body, primarily the head. It can also inhibit surface bleeding.
NOTE: Abstain from storing this herb for more than one year.
Warning
This plant’s small amount of tyramine and other biogenic amines causes a mild vasoconstrictor and hypertensive effect. People suffering from arterial hypertension (high blood pressure) must control blood pressure every day to be treated with this plant.
How to use Shepherd’s Purse
- Infusion with 30 to 60 grams of plant per liter of water, steeping for 10 minutes. Drink from three to five cups daily, not at mealtime. In the cases of menstrual disorders, this infusion must be first taken a week before the day menstruation is expected to occur.
- Compresses soaked in the same infusion used internally.
- Gauze packing, soaked in the infusion mentioned above, especially for nose bleeds.
Tincture: Twenty to sixty drops one to two times daily. Fluid Extract: ¼ to ½ teaspoons one to two times daily. Powder: Two to ten #0 capsules (15 to 60 grains) once or twice daily.
Frequently Asked Question
How does shepherd’s purse specifically affect menstrual cycles?
Uterotonic Action: Shepherd’s purse contains compounds with uterotonic effects, meaning they can stimulate uterine contractions. This can help regulate heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) and potentially reduce bleeding between periods.
Research: Limited clinical studies suggest shepherd’s purse’s effectiveness in reducing heavy menstrual flow.
Can shepherd’s purse assist with postpartum bleeding?
Traditional Use: Shepherd’s purse has a long history of conventional use in aiding postpartum recovery due to its potential to reduce bleeding.
Limited Evidence: While anecdotal reports exist, scientific evidence does not support shepherd’s purse for postpartum bleeding management. Consulting a healthcare professional is essential.
Potential Hypotensive Action: Some research indicates the plant may have hypotensive effects (lowering blood pressure). This is likely due to the presence of compounds like choline and acetylcholine.
Caution: If you have low blood pressure or take blood pressure medication, use shepherd’s purse only under medical supervision.
Are there any cardiovascular benefits associated with shepherd’s purse?
Limited Research: While some studies hint at potential heart health benefits, the evidence remains inconclusive. More research is needed to determine if Shepherd’s Purse has significant cardioprotective effects.
How might shepherd’s purse help with wound healing?
Astringent Properties: Shepherd’s purse has astringent properties, which can cause tissues to contract. This might help stop minor bleeding from cuts and wounds.
Anti-inflammatory Potential: Preliminary research suggests anti-inflammatory effects that may contribute to wound healing.
Can shepherd’s purse treat urinary tract infections (UTIs)?
Traditional Use and Limited Evidence: Shepherd’s purse has been used traditionally for UTIs. Some small studies indicate potential benefits, but larger, well-designed studies are necessary for confirmation.
Important: Seek medical advice for UTI treatment. Do not rely solely on shepherd’s purse.
Are there any known drug interactions with shepherd’s purse?
Potential Interactions: Shepherd’s purse could interact with medications such as blood pressure, anticoagulants, and antiplatelet drugs due to their possible effects on blood pressure and blood clotting.
Essential: Always disclose the use of shepherd’s purse and any other herbs or supplements to your doctor.
What are the recommended dosages and preparation methods for shepherd’s purse?
No Standard Dosage: There’s no universally established safe and effective dosage. Dosages vary based on preparation method, health condition, and individual response.
Methods: Shepherd’s purse can be used as a tea, tincture, capsule, or topical preparation.
Professional Guidance: Consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized dosage recommendations.
Are there groups of people who should avoid shepherd’s purse?
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Shepherd’s purse is contraindicated for use during pregnancy and lactation on account of its lack of safety data and potential to induce uterine contractions.
Blood Clotting Disorders: Exercise caution if you have a blood coagulation disorder or are taking blood-thinning medications.
Surgery: You should stop using shepherd’s purse at least two weeks before surgery due to its potential blood clotting effects.
Where can I find reliable information about shepherd’s purse?
Reputable Sources: Consult the websites of government agencies, universities, & research institutions, such as the National Institutes of Health. (https://www.nccih.nih.gov/).
Scientific Journals: Search databases like PubMed (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/) for peer-reviewed studies.
Qualified Professionals: Consult naturopathic doctors or herbalists with expertise in botanical medicine.
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. Do not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Ed. Francesc X. Gelabert. vols. 2 San Fernando de Henares: Editorial Safeliz, 2000. 628, 629. Print.
- Vance Ferrell Harold M. Cherne, M.D. The Natural Remedies Encyclopedia [Book]. – Altamont, TN: Harvestime Books, 2010. – Vol. Seventh Edition: 7: pp. 179.
- National Institutes of Health (NIH): https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30733853/
- Journal of Ethnopharmacology: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3370354/
- WebMD: https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-51/shepherds-purse
Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API