| The heart shaped fruits
of this plant resemble the purses that people like Shepherds used to hang from
their belts in the Middle Ages. During the First World War, when the standard
haemostatic herbs Hydrastis and Claviceps were unobtainable in Britain,
Shepherd's Purse was used as an alternative. It has also been used as a quinine
substitute in the treatment of malaria. In Chinese medicine it is used to treat
dysentery and eye problems.
Shepherd's Purse haemostatic action is due to the presence of
tyramine and other amines, and the acetylcholine, choline and tyramine have been
shown to produce a transient decrease in blood pressure and haemostatic activity
in vivo. It can be used to treat urinary infections with haematuria, and
menorrhagia. The polypeptides have a contractile action on the uterus. It is
also of benefit in the treatment of haemorrhoids and varicose veins. The
flavonoids have an anti-inflammatory action and the tannins are astringent. This
herb is also used as an effective treatment for diarrhea.
"By the river upon the bank thereof, on
this side and on that side, shall grow all trees for meat, whose leaf shall not
fade, neither shall the fruit thereof be consumed: it shall bring forth fruit
according to his months, because their waters issued out of the sanctuary: and
the fruit thereof shall be for meat, and the leaf thereof for medicine."
Ezekiel 47:12
Shepard's Purse is also known as:
Shepherd's Purse, Capsella bursa pastoris,
shepherd’s sprout, shepherd’s heart, Lady’s purse, and Blindweed
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