Capsella bursa-pastoris (Capsella bursa-pastoris)

Other names: spatula, granny pockets, shepherd's pocket

Capsella bursa-pastoris, known in Latin as Capsella bursa-pastoris, is a plant belonging to the brassica family. It is also popularly known as the spadefoot, granny's pocket or shepherd's pocket. It is one of the most widespread and well-known weeds in the world, growing in fields, vineyards, gardens, but also around roadsides or in cities. Despite the fact that it is perceived as a weed, this plant has many medicinal properties and uses in gastronomy.

Thanks to its high content of vitamin C, magnesium, iron, potassium and other minerals, the coconut paste capsule is used not only in folk medicine, but also in the kitchen. The young leaves and flowers can be used to make tasty salads, sauces and pesto. The plant is also suitable for mixing into herbal teas, which have beneficial effects on digestion, the urinary and cardiovascular systems. In cosmetics, the decoction of the flowers of the coconut paste capsule is used as a tonic for oily and acne-prone skin. Its seeds can also be used in kits for making home brewed beer or as a seasoning for bread and dried meats. It is clear, then, that although the cocklebur capsule is often overlooked and labelled as a weed, its potential is considerable and extremely diverse.