Chickweed, also known as Indian chickweed, is a wayside herb original to
eastern Europe but now widely distributed elsewhere, including North
America. It is commonly discovered by home gardeners roosting in a patch
of newly tilled soil or in between patio tiles. Pulling the herb out
without bringing other weedy companions with it proves difficult, but
the flavor and textural interest that raw chickweed lends to salads and
sandwiches makes it worth the effort.
The plant is abundant in B vitamins as well as vitamin C and D, iron,
calcium and copper. Chickweed also contains a high concentration of
saponins, making it a feasible substitute for soapwort in natural
cosmetic and household formulations.
