Chickweed for Weight Loss

Chickweed, belonging to the Stellaria genus, comprises about 100 species. Depending upon the species, this annual, creeping herb grows to about 5-8 inch. When speaking about chickweed for weight loss, the species refers to Stellaria media. With reference to its star-shaped, tiny, white flowers, this medicinal herb is also known as starweed and star chickweed. Normally, you can find chickweed plants in open lawns and backyards that receive partial to full sunlight.

Chickweed Benefits

Chickweed has been used as a herb of medicinal importance as early as the 16th century. The adaptability of this medicinal herb in a wide range of climatic conditions is evident from the fact that it's found throughout the world. As per botanists, there are very few medicinal herbs that are as widespread as chickweed. Some of the chickweed health benefits are:

• Chickweed extract is used for treating skin irritation and other disorders.
• Effective herb for relieving constipation.
• Chickweed is used for overcoming inflammation and irritation in the eyes.
• It is used as an effective herbal remedy for combating a low metabolism problem.
• Chickweed supplements are prescribed for joint stiffness and pain.
• Extract is taken for getting relief from hoarseness, cough and respiratory problems.

Chickweed for Weight Loss

In the present scenario, chickweed is used as an important component in formulation of obesity medication and weight loss supplements. The easy availability of chickweed also contributes to its wide popularity as a therapeutic herb. As there are many species of the chickweed genus, it is often confusing to identify the chickweed herb for weight loss from other related species.

According to scientific research, chickweed contains vitamin C, phosphorus and most importantly, the active ingredients, gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), saponins and other glycosides. Presence of these active ingredients make chickweed a mild and effective diuretic. When ingested in the body system, these substances aid in emulsification of the fat cells, which in turn promotes dissolving and elimination of fat.

Though chickweed herb can be used in several forms, most people prefer using it in a dried powdered form. Sprinkling chickweed powder in salads also adds a special taste and flavor. For preparation of chickweed herbal tea, you can add one teaspoon dried chickweed or two teaspoons fresh chickweed (after brushing) in about 8 ounces of hot water. Close the lid and let the mixture settle for 5 minutes. Using a strainer, drain the chickweed herbal tea and drink.

Due to the mild diuretic and laxative nature of chickweed, regular consumption of chickweed based products help in losing weight and keeping the weight under control. If you have planted chickweed at home, then prepare chickweed herbal tea and have it for two to three times daily. This will definitely help you in shedding extra pounds. However, be careful that you follow a healthy weight loss diet and drink lots of water. Otherwise, it can lead to dehydration and other health complications.

People who supported the use of chickweed for weight loss are of the opinion that this is the most effective herb for losing weight without any symptomatic side effect. Chickweed, when incorporated with healthy lifestyle habits such as a well-balanced diet and regular exercise, is an effective formulation for achieving long-term weight loss.

Chickweed Side Effects

While speaking about chickweed side effects, care has to be taken that the products or supplements are free of any additives or contaminants. As it is basically a weed, some people may experience allergic reactions after ingestion. To avoid such a situation, you can successively decrease the quantity of consumption of the chickweed herb, and then increase it through time after your body gets used to it.

As chickweed is well-grown in various soil conditions, there are high chances of bioaccumulation of toxic chemicals from the soil. Hence, if you are planting chickweed, make sure the soil in the plantation site is devoid of chemicals and hazardous toxins. Do not apply chemical fertilizers and pesticides to the herbs. As you are using chickweed for weight loss and therapeutic purposes, ensure that it is free of toxic chemicals.