Shepherds Purse Herb – Capsella bursa-pastoris L. – Herba Organica

Description

Shepherds Purse Herb (Capsella bursa-pastoris L.) – Dried Herb for Tea & Infusions

Shepherds Purse Herb (Capsella bursa-pastoris L.) Herba Organica is a carefully collected and naturally dried herb, hand-packed in resealable bags to preserve its delicate texture, natural colour, and characteristic aroma. Known for its historical use in traditional herbal practices across Europe and other regions, Shepherd’s Purse is ideal for herbal infusions, teas, and inclusion in custom herbal blends. Its subtle, earthy character and versatile applications make it a valued addition to any herbal collection.

Botanical Background and Origin

Shepherds Purse (Capsella bursa-pastoris) is an annual plant from the Brassicaceae family, commonly found across Europe, Asia, and North America. It thrives in a variety of soils, often appearing in meadows, fields, and gardens. Recognised for its small, heart-shaped seed pods and slender green leaves, this herb has been appreciated for centuries by herbal practitioners for its unique properties and ease of collection.

The herb is typically collected when the plants are fully mature, ensuring the leaves and seed pods retain their natural structure and aromatic qualities. The drying process preserves these characteristics, allowing Shepherd’s Purse to be used directly for infusions or as a complementary ingredient in herbal mixtures.

Historical and Traditional Use

Shepherds Purse Herb has a long history in European herbal traditions. It was commonly incorporated into teas, infusions, and occasional herbal mixtures due to its subtle earthy aroma and delicate herbal qualities. Historically, the herb was valued for its use in carefully composed herbal preparations, often combined with other leaves, flowers, or seeds to create balanced and aromatic blends.

In traditional practices, Shepherds Purse was sometimes included in household herbal infusions or as part of community herbal knowledge passed through generations. Its versatility and gentle character made it suitable for a variety of herbal applications, highlighting the plant’s enduring presence in herbal traditions.

Preparation Methods

Shepherds Purse Herb is best suited for simple infusions that allow the herb to release its aroma and character without requiring prolonged boiling.

Basic Shepherd’s Purse Infusion

Ingredients:
• 1–2 teaspoons Shepherds Purse Herb
• 250 ml freshly boiled water

Preparation Method:
Place the dried herb into a teapot or cup, pour freshly boiled water over it, cover to preserve the aroma, and allow the herb to steep for 8–10 minutes. Strain the infusion before drinking. The resulting infusion is light, subtly earthy, and aromatic. It can be enjoyed on its own or enhanced with natural additions such as a squeeze of lemon, a pinch of stevia, or a touch of honey for a slightly sweeter taste.

Herbal Blends with Shepherds Purse

Shepherds Purse Herb blends well with other aromatic leaves and flowers, creating balanced and enjoyable herbal infusions:

Shepherd’s Purse & Nettle Leaf Blend

Ingredients:
• 1 teaspoon Shepherds Purse Herb
• ½ teaspoon Nettle Leaf
• 250 ml freshly boiled water
Preparation Method:
Combine the herbs in a cup or teapot, pour hot water over them, cover, and steep for 8–10 minutes. Strain before drinking. The herbal infusion is earthy with a mild green aroma, offering a refreshing and wholesome beverage.

Shepherds Purse, Red Clover & Lady’s Mantle Blend

Ingredients:
• 1 teaspoon Shepherds Purse Herb
• ½ teaspoon Red Clover Flower
• ½ teaspoon Lady’s Mantle Herb
• 250 ml freshly boiled water

Preparation Method:
Combine all herbs in a teapot or cup, pour freshly boiled water over them, cover, and allow to steep for 8–10 minutes. Strain before drinking. This infusion brings together the subtle herbal character of Shepherd’s Purse with the gentle floral aroma of Red Clover and the soft, earthy notes of Lady’s Mantle, creating a balanced and soothing herbal beverage ideal for relaxation.

Handling and Storage

Shepherds Purse Herb Herba Organica is hand-packed in resealable bags to preserve its delicate structure, aroma, and colour. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Resealing the bag after each use helps maintain the herb’s quality, ensuring it remains ready for infusions, teas, and herbal blends over time.

By combining traditional knowledge with modern packaging standards, this product offers a reliable, aromatic, and versatile herb suitable for a variety of herbal preparations and personalized blends.

Important Information

The description and any information provided about this product are for informational purposes only and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, nor to replace professional medical advice. For official UK guidance on the safe use of herbal products, see the NHS page. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking any medication or have a medical condition, please consult a qualified healthcare professional before use. Keep out of reach of children.