Shepherd’s Purse Herb

Shepherd’s Purse
Scientific Name: Capsella bursa-pastoris

Delicate, grounding, and traditionally powerful, shepherd’s purse is a well-known wild herb in European folk herbalism, valued for its strong astringent properties and long history of use in seasonal and menstrual wellness traditions. Harvested from the aerial parts of Capsella bursa-pastoris, this modest plant has been used for centuries as a supportive herb for balance and tone.

Plant Description:
Shepherd’s purse is an annual or biennial herb in the mustard family (Brassicaceae), found widely across Europe, Asia, and North America. It grows in a low rosette of lobed leaves and produces slender stems with small white flowers. It is named for its distinctive heart-shaped seed pods, which resemble a small pouch or “purse.”

Traditional Uses:
Shepherd’s purse has a long history in European, Chinese, and folk herbal traditions. It has traditionally been used in teas and tinctures for supporting balance in normal fluid flow and for its astringent, toning qualities. Herbalists have also used it externally in washes and compresses for minor skin and tissue support.

Benefits:

• Traditionally supports normal fluid balance and tone
• Strong astringent herb in folk herbal use
• May support menstrual and circulatory balance in traditional systems
• Used externally for minor skin support applications
• Supports digestive and tissue tightening properties
• Historically used in seasonal wellness preparations
• Supports general balance and toning

Preparation Suggestions:
Shepherd’s purse is commonly prepared as a tea, tincture, or infusion. Steep 1–2 teaspoons of dried herb in hot water for 10–15 minutes. It can also be used externally as a wash or compress. Often combined with herbs like yarrow, nettle, or raspberry leaf in traditional formulas.

Cautions:
Not recommended during pregnancy due to its traditional effects on uterine tone. Use caution if taking blood pressure or anticoagulant medications. Avoid long-term use without guidance from a qualified practitioner.

Disclaimer:
This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Information provided is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before beginning any herbal regimen.