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Herbs & Supplements
Tongue grass
Scientific Name: Chickweed
Other Names: Mouse-ear, Satinflower, Starweed, Starwort, Stellaria media, White Bird's Eye, Winterweed
What side effects should I watch for?
Major Side Effects
In the past, isolated case reports of muscle paralysis have been attributed to eating or taking very large amounts of chickweed. No study evidence proves this effect, no recent instances have been documented, and the chickweed involved may have been contaminated with pesticides or mixed with other plants.
Chickweed is known, however, to contain chemicals called nitrates. Cattle and other large animals that have eaten quantities of chickweed far in excess of what a human could practically consume have had symptoms of nitrate poisoning. Although no human cases of nitrate poisoning have ever been associated with taking or eating chickweed, very rare cases of nitrate poisoning have been reported in humans--particularly in infants who are less than 6 months old. Because the first sign of nitrate poisoning is a bluish coloration of the fingers and lips, nitrate poisoning in infants may be known as "Blue Baby Syndrome". It is a serious condition that could cause death, brain damage, or other severe consequences if it is not treated immediately.
Less Severe Side Effects
Some reports of contact dermatitis (itchy, red, or scaling skin) have been associated with touching chickweed plants. Individuals who are sensitive to dandelion or plants in the daisy family may also be sensitive to chickweed.
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Note: The above information is not intended to replace the advice of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not meant to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you.
In general, herbal products are not subject to review or approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They are not required to be standardized, meaning that the amounts of active ingredients or contaminants they contain may vary between brands or between different batches of the same brand. Not all of the risks, side effects, or interactions associated with the use of herbal products are known because few reliable studies of their use in humans have been done.
This information is provided for your education only. Please share this information with your healthcare provider and be sure that you talk to your doctor and pharmacist about all the prescription and non-prescription medicines you take before you begin to use any herbal product.
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What side effects should I watch for? 
