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Chickweed
Chickweed is an herb traditionally believed to aid weight loss, heal wounds, and reduce inflammation. However, most research on chickweed has been done in test tubes or on animals, so its benefits in humans remain unclear.
It’s important to note that the benefits listed below are the result of older studies that pertain only to animals.
To better understand the effects of chickweed on humans, more recent and high quality research is necessary.
One 2011 study found that orally administered chickweed extract suppressed progesterone-induced obesity in mice.
All of the mice with progesterone-induced obesity experienced significant increases in body weight, body fat, and liver fat.
However, those that were also given 90–180 mg of chickweed extract per pound (200–400 mg per kg) of body weight experienced significant decreases in these measurements, compared with the control and progesterone-treated groups.
What’s more, another 2012 study in mice fed a high fat diet for 6 weeks found that consuming freeze-dried chickweed juice prevented weight gain and increases in body fat and total and LDL (bad) cholesterol, compared with a control group.
These anti-obesity effects were attributed to the delayed absorption of dietary fats and carbs in the intestines as a result of the digestive-inhibiting enzymes in the chickweed juice.
If you’re experiencing phlegm buildup, chickweed may be helpful.
Some animal and test-tube studies indicate that chickweed is a good expectorant, meaning it may help loosen mucus, thus helping you cough.
May reduce inflammation
One review found that applying whole chickweed as a plaster to swollen areas or even broken bones could provide anti-inflammatory, anti-irritation, and soothing effects.
Another review observed that the whole plant can fight inflammation when used for inflamed skin, joints, and respiratory tract illnesses like bronchitis.
May fight germs and promote wound healing
Chickweed may fight germs and help heal wounds and infections. It has been used for these purposes in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries, primarily for skin diseases.
In Ireland and Britain, chickweed is a common remedy for alleviating skin problems, speeding wound healing, and reducing irritation and itchiness.
AntiViral
One test-tube study found that applying fresh chickweed juice could fight the hepatitis B virus (HBV). Applying the juice to an HBV-infected liver cell line for 6 days reduced HBV growth and production by over 25%.
From: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/chickweed-benefits#benefits
This ingredient is normally used as an ingredient in the following Healthelicious products: