Chickweed has been used in ancient folk medicine recorded as far back as the 16th century when it was often used to treat wounds, a skin condition called psoriasis, rabies, itching, plus muscle and joint pain. Over time, it was embraced as a "blood cleanser" and sometimes used to treat asthma, constipation, menstrual pain, peptic ulcers, rabies, respiratory illnesses, obesity, and scurvy, vitamin c deficiency, among other common and uncommon conditions.. The leaf is used to make medicine.

When applied topically in DIY infusions, chickweed is believed to treat the following skin conditions:

Burns

Contact dermatitis

Diaper rash

Eczema

Insect bites

Itchy skin

Psoriasis

Rashes

Wounds

Splinters


Chickweed is sometimes applied directly to the skin for many skin problems.

It is also used in foods, chickweed is eaten in salads or served as cooked green in certain culture