Shepherd’s Purse
History & Information
Capsella bursa-pastoris is often recognized by its triangular, flat, purse-like fruits. Aptly named, shepherd’s purse is a small, herbaceous annual in the mustard family. Shepherds purse has been used for thousands of years with seeds even being found in a Neolithic settlement in Turkey. Native to eastern Europe and western Asia, shepherd’s purse is often considered a common weed in areas where it has naturalized. With a long history of use in folk herbalism for its beneficial properties, the herb can be macerated as a liquid extract or steeped as shepherd’s purse tea.
Shepherd's purse is a temperate zone weed in the mustard family, the same as cabbage, broccoli, and watercress. It is a biennial with an erect stem emerging from a rosette of leaves at its base. It bears four-petalled white flowers that produce heart or purse shaped seedpods. Its name comes from its resemblance to a shepherd's pouch in the middle ages. All of the above ground parts of the plant are used in herbal preparations.
Directions
To prepare as a tea, pour 8 oz. boiling water over 1 tsp. of herb. Cover and steep 5-10 minutes, strain and serve immediately.
Precautions
Not for use in pregnancy except under the supervision of a qualified healthcare practitioner. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.
More Information
Botanical Name: Capsella bursa-pastoris
Form: Cut & Sifted
Origin: Bulgaria, Hungary
Certification and Values
Kosher
No Artificial Ingredients
Non ETO
Non Irradiated
Please note:
There is a maximum purchase limit of 6 oz per herb.
Orders exceeding this amount may require up to 2 weeks to ship.
Pickup available at The Mercantile Apothecary
Usually ready in 2-4 days
*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. For educational purposes only.