Weeds 101: Plants With Healing Properties

Stop tearing out those “pesky” weeds! Instead, let them grow in your garden, yard, or planters, and you may find yourself harvesting a treasure trove of quality medicinal herbs. Relax, take a break from weeding, and let these natural healers thrive. Not forever, and certainly not all weeds, but the ten plants listed below at least deserve a chance. They might just transform your garden into a sanctuary of health.

1. Shepherd’s Purse (Capsella bursa-pastoris)

Clusters of tiny white flowers grow atop slender stems of shepherd's purse

Shepherd’s purse is a versatile healer that aids in blood clotting, soothes muscle injuries, and improves vision. Its heart-shaped seed pods are the treasure here—let them grow to full size, then harvest them to create compresses, teas, or tinctures that you can apply directly to wounds or consume for their therapeutic benefits.

2. Cleavers (Galium aparine)

Green stems and leaves of cleavers sprawl across other foliage

Cleavers aren’t just another weed—they’re a powerhouse of benefits. This small plant stimulates the lymphatic system, improves kidney health, heals acne, and stops bleeding. Its countless uses make it an invaluable part of any natural medicine cabinet. Use it as a poultice, mix it with another salve, or brew it into a soothing tea. Whatever method you choose, you’ll unlock the therapeutic potential of this modest plant for your wellness needs.

3. Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)

Bright yellow dandelion flowers form a vibrant carpet of weeds in the sunshine

Perhaps the most annoying of all weeds because of their fast growth, dandelions possess remarkable medicinal qualities that have been used for centuries around the world. They stimulate liver health, soothe upset stomachs, and regulate blood sugar. But that’s just scratching the surface of what these vibrant yellow blooms can do! Whether cooked, brewed as tea, steeped into a tincture, or consumed fresh, dandelions are a beneficial addition to your natural remedy arsenal.

4. Groundsel (Senecio vulgaris)

Bright yellow groundsel blooms with rounded buds and delicate flowers

You might be aware that groundsel is a delicacy for canaries, but did you know it’s also a natural remedy for headaches? And its healing powers go far beyond that. From soothing chapped hands to easing menstrual pain, this sunny yellow plant deserves a spot in your herbal collection. Transform it into a lotion, poultice, or tincture to unlock its full potential.

5. Mallow (Malva neglecta, Malva sylvestris)

A delicate pink mallow flower surrounded by scalloped leaves

Once savored by ancient Romans, mallow plants contain mucilage that soothes sore throats, bug bites, and more. Unlike most other weeds on this list, they require a bit more preparation, but the effort is worth it. Boiling the flowers in water or milk creates a syrupy mixture that’s easy to drink, or you can make a delicious mallow wine.

6. St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum)

Bright yellow blooms of St. John's Wort shine in clusters

This beautiful yellow-flowered plant has a long history of medicinal use. From monks in the Middle Ages to today’s pharmaceutical products, St. John’s Wort has helped relieve pain, boost mood, and soothe various ailments. By harvesting the flowers, you can create tinctures using alcohol or oil that promote overall well-being.

7. Self Heal (Prunella vulgaris)

Purple self heal flowers bloom atop a spiky green bract

This quaint plant with its purple blossoms so often goes unnoticed. As a member of the mint family, self heal is true to its name—it heals everything from wounds to burns, reduces blood pressure, relieves allergies, and even fights cancer cells. With so many healing properties, why not brew yourself a soothing cup of tea and unlock the magic of this remarkable herb?

8. Usnea (Usnea barbata)

A close-up of Usnea growing on a tree branch

Usnea is excellent for a range of infections, including respiratory issues like strep and pneumonia, urinary tract infections, and fungal infections. It works best when taken as a tincture or mixed into a salve, making it a valuable addition to any natural medicine cabinet.

9. Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

Cluster of delicate, pale-pink yarrow flowers blooms atop slender stems against a backdrop of greenery

Yarrow, a relative of the towering sunflower, is highly effective in treating common illnesses like colds, fevers, and flu. If you suffer from rashes or other skin conditions, this herb could offer relief. Whether in teas, tinctures, or poultices, yarrow is one weed you should definitely keep around.

Note: While yarrow is an effective healer, it can resemble the poisonous hemlock. You can distinguish yarrow by its fern-like leaves and flat clusters of small white flowers. If needed, consult a reliable guide to stay safe.

10. Ground Ivy (Glechoma hederacea)

Ground ivy plants with small bluish-purple flowers growing among other foliage

Traditionally used to treat lead poisoning, ground ivy also purifies the kidneys and treats sores and boils. Try adding it to a bath for a soothing effect, or you can steep its leaves and flowers into a tea or tincture. If you prefer a smaller dose, extract fresh juice and take a few teaspoons daily.

Before you dismiss weeds as nuisances, consider letting these natural healers thrive. The ten plants listed above might just be your best-kept secret for natural wellness.

Please note: Before harvesting plants, ensure they haven’t been treated with pesticides. Confirm the effectiveness with reputable medical sources and consult healthcare professionals before use.