More usually considered a weed than a medicinal herb, shepherd's purse has it's place in both Eastern and Westrn practice.  The heart shaped seed pods apparently resemble the leather pouches once carried by shepherd's hence the common name; another is "mother's hearts" a reminder that this is a useful herb for gynecological conditions.  Shepherd's purse is mainly used as a styptic to reduce bleeding in China, the seeds are said to inprove eyesight.

 

 

 

Infusion:  Take for heavy menstrual bleeding, cystitis, and diarrhea.  A strong infusion (twice the standard mix) of fresh or freshly dried herb is the best.  Sip a hot infusion during labour to stimulate contractions, and after delivery to ease postpatum bleeding.

 

Tintcture:  Take up to 10 ml, three times a day, for heavy menstrual bleeding, cystitis, and diarrhea.

 

Poultice:  Apply the fresh herb to bleeding wounds.

 

Compress:  Soak a pad in the infusion for cuts.  For nosebleeds, soak small cotton swabs in the tinture and insert in the nostril.

 

Cautions: Avoind the herb in pregnancy, except during labor, because it stimulates uterine contractions.

 

If there is any sudden change in menstrual flow or blood in the urine, seek professional advice begfore attempting self-medication.

 

Taken from The Complete Medicinal Herbal by Penelope Ody.