Chickweed is a low growing annual native to Europe that is common fare for chickens, hence the name. The English herb is easily recognized by its straggling, succulent stems bearing paired leaves and white star shaped flowers. It is said that there is no part of the world where chickweed doesn't grow; it is even found in the North Arctic regions.

Chickweed is often prepared as a soothing ointment or skin cream. Its aerial parts contain coumarins, rutin, iron, saponins, B vitamins including thiamin and niacin, and vitamin C.