Shepherd's Purse

Botanical: Capsella bursa-pastoris
Family: Brassicaceae (cabbage) - formerly Cruciferae (mustard)

Other common names: Capsella, Mother's Heart, Pick Pocket, Shovelweed, Sanguinary, Lady's Purse, Shepherd's Heard, Cocowort, Witches' Pouches, Saint James Weed, Toywort, Case Weed

Shepherd's Purse has been used for a wide range of ailments, including poor eyesight, dysentery, urinary tract problems, bleeding disorders and menstrual difficulties.  It has been used most often as a uterine tonic and to stimulate uterine contractions during childbirth, and in the prevention of post-partum hemorrhage.

Disclaimer:
The information presented herein by Viable Herbal Solutions is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.

History and Uses:
Shepherd's Purse is indigenous to Europe and western Asia, and very abundant in Great Britain.   The herb, which grows up to two feet in height, is considered a weed in many areas.  The common name, Shepherd's Purse, refers to the appearance of the seed pod, which is flat and heart-shaped and contains many small, oval seeds, resembling the purses, or pouches that people carried in the Middle Ages.  Shepherd's Purse produces numerous, tiny white flowers and blooms from Spring until Fall.  Shepherd's Purse has been used medicinally for centuries.  In Chinese medicine, it is used for dysentery and eye problems, and people still chew the seeds of the Shepherd's Purse to improve their vision. In Europe, Shepherd's Purse has primarily been used in the treatment of bleeding disorders, often in conjunction with Goldenseal Root.  The herb was used to stop hemorrhaging in the stomach and especially for urinary tract bleeding.  Shepherd's Purse has been used regulate menstrual problems and by midwives to stimulate uterine contractions and prevent post-partum hemorrhage.  It has also been shown to reduce urinary tract irritation and has often been used as a mild diuretic.  During World War I, Shepherd's Purse was used by British Soldiers to help slow the bleeding from wounds,

and it was also been used as a substitute for quinine.  Shepherd's Purse contains

saponins, bursinic acid, flavonoids (including Quercetin), choline, beta-carotene and vitamins B, C, and K.  Shepherd's Purse has also been used to treat diarrhea, kidney stones, hemorrhoids, nosebleeds and varicose veins.

Recommended Dosage:
Take two (2) capsules, two (2) times each day with water at mealtimes.

Contraindications:
Shepherd's Purse should not be used during pregnancy, as it is a uterine stimulant. Those who take prescription kidney medications should not use this herb.

Capsule Information:
Our Shepherd's Purse supplements are encapsulated in 100% Gluten-free, Vegetable Cellulose, Certified Kosher, size "00" Capsules. (click here for size comparison) Each capsule contains approximately 600 mgs.