Chickweed Poultice

Poultices used on clean wounds and unbroken skin can be reused several times if chickweed is in short supply.

* Apply the fresh herb, washed, directly onto sores, closed eyes, wounds.

Or * Cook the greens and stalks, especially when using older plants or treating deeply; cool somewhat before applying.

Or *Simmer chickweed in half water, half vinegar for about 5 minutes, cool and apply.

Then cover chickweed with a cotton towel or a thin layer of clay, and poultice for 5 minutes to 3 hours. 

Replace when poultice feels hot to the touch and oozes. (Yes, hot! Though most poultices are applied warm and removed when they cool, chickweed poultices actually heat up as they draw out infection and heat.)

Relief often begins within a few hours of the initial application, with pain and swelling diminishing steadily as treatments continue.