# Capsella bursa-pastoris

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/capsella-bursa-pastoris
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-31
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** European
**Also Known As:** Shepherd's purse, Shepherd's bag, Mother's heart, Lady's purse, Witches' pouches, Rattle pouches, Case-weed, Pick-pocket, St. James' weed, Pepper-and-salt, Poor man's parmacettie, Blindweed, Cocowort

## Overview

Capsella bursa-pastoris, commonly called shepherd's purse, contains flavonoids such as diosmin and hesperidin, along with tyramine and oxalic acid, which collectively exert vasoconstrictive and uterotonic effects. These bioactive compounds act on smooth muscle tissue and platelet aggregation pathways to reduce excessive bleeding, particularly in gynecological contexts.

## Health Benefits

• Reduces heavy menstrual bleeding - shown in RCT (n=90) to significantly decrease bleeding amount and duration (evidence: moderate)
• May help prevent postpartum hemorrhage - RCT (n=100) showed reduced early PPH when combined with oxytocin (evidence: preliminary)
• Traditional hemostatic effects for wounds - supported by animal model showing reduced bleeding in liver laceration (evidence: traditional/animal)
• Potential antitumor activity - mouse studies showed 50-80% inhibition of Ehrlich tumor growth with i.p. extract (evidence: animal only)
• [Antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) and [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) properties - in vitro studies demonstrate polyphenol-mediated effects (evidence: preliminary)

## Mechanism of Action

Capsella bursa-pastoris exerts hemostatic effects primarily through tyramine-mediated stimulation of adrenergic receptors, inducing uterine smooth muscle contraction and vasoconstriction of uterine blood vessels. Flavonoids including diosmin and hesperidin inhibit [prostaglandin](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) synthesis and stabilize capillary walls by reducing vascular permeability via phospholipase A2 inhibition. Additionally, oxalic acid and peptides present in the herb promote platelet aggregation and accelerate the coagulation cascade, contributing to its overall antihemorrhagic profile.

## Clinical Summary

A randomized controlled trial (n=90) demonstrated that standardized shepherd's purse extract significantly reduced both the volume and duration of heavy menstrual bleeding compared to placebo, supporting moderate-strength evidence for this indication. A second RCT (n=100) found that adjunctive use of Capsella bursa-pastoris alongside oxytocin reduced the incidence of early postpartum hemorrhage, though this represents preliminary evidence requiring replication in larger trials. Traditional use across European herbal medicine systems provides historical context, and ESCOP has formally recognized its hemostatic applications, though most clinical trials are small and methodological quality varies. Overall, evidence is promising but insufficient to displace conventional first-line hemostatic therapies without further large-scale investigation.

## Nutritional Profile

Capsella bursa-pastoris (shepherd's purse) is a nutritionally notable wild edible green in the Brassicaceae family. **Macronutrients (per 100 g fresh leaf, approximate):** Protein 3.0–4.2 g; Fat 0.5–0.7 g; Carbohydrates 4.0–5.5 g; Dietary fiber 2.0–3.5 g; Energy ~30–40 kcal. **Minerals:** Calcium 200–280 mg (relatively high for a leafy green; bioavailability moderate due to oxalate content, though lower oxalate than spinach); Potassium 350–400 mg; Iron 4.5–8.0 mg (non-heme, bioavailability enhanced by concurrent vitamin C); Phosphorus 40–80 mg; Magnesium 30–50 mg; Zinc 0.7–1.2 mg; Manganese 0.5–0.8 mg. **Vitamins:** Vitamin C 40–65 mg/100 g (notable; aids iron absorption); Vitamin A (as β-carotene) 2,500–4,100 µg RAE equivalent; Vitamin K₁ (phylloquinone) estimated 200–350 µg (very high, consistent with Brassicaceae greens and relevant to its hemostatic properties); Folate ~60–80 µg; Riboflavin (B₂) ~0.1–0.15 mg; Thiamine (B₁) ~0.08–0.10 mg. **Key Bioactive Compounds:** Flavonoids — rutin (quercetin-3-O-rutinoside, 0.5–1.5% dry weight), luteolin-7-O-glucoside, hesperidin, and diosmin, contributing to vascular-stabilizing and anti-hemorrhagic effects. Sulforaphane and other glucosinolate-derived isothiocyanates (sinigrin as precursor, ~5–15 µmol/g dry weight) typical of Brassicaceae. Tyramine and related biogenic amines (trace to low levels) historically implicated in uterotonic activity. Bursic acid and fumaric acid — organic acids believed to contribute to hemostatic activity. [Acetylcholine](/ingredients/condition/cognitive)-like compounds reported in older phytochemical literature. Phenolic acids including caffeic acid, p-coumaric acid, and chlorogenic acid (total phenolics ~15–30 mg GAE/g dry weight). Carotenoids including β-carotene and lutein (total ~30–60 mg/100 g dry weight). Tannins (condensed, ~1–3% dry weight) contributing to astringent and wound-healing properties. Saponins (triterpene type, modest levels). **Bioavailability Notes:** The high vitamin C content enhances non-heme iron absorption from the plant itself. Vitamin K₁ absorption is fat-dependent (consuming with dietary fat recommended). Flavonoid glycosides (rutin) are hydrolyzed by gut microbiota to aglycones (quercetin), with variable individual bioavailability (typically 15–30% absorption). Glucosinolate conversion to bioactive isothiocyanates depends on myrosinase activity (enhanced by raw consumption or light cooking). Oxalate content is lower than many Chenopodiaceae greens, making mineral bioavailability comparatively favorable.

## Dosage & Preparation

Clinically studied doses include: sublingual hydroalcoholic extract drops (10 drops immediately post-delivery with oxytocin) for postpartum hemorrhage; oral hydroalcoholic extract capsules (specific dose not reported) taken over two menstrual cycles for heavy bleeding. No standardized dosing established. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Capsella bursa-pastoris is contraindicated during pregnancy due to its uterotonic activity, as tyramine-driven uterine contractions pose a risk of premature labor or miscarriage. Individuals taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications such as warfarin or aspirin should exercise caution, as its pro-coagulant and platelet-aggregating properties may potentiate or antagonize drug effects unpredictably. [Thyroid](/ingredients/condition/hormonal) medication interactions are a theoretical concern, as the plant contains goitrogens that may interfere with iodine uptake when consumed in high or prolonged doses. Side effects are generally mild at typical herbal doses but may include gastrointestinal upset, and patients with a history of kidney stones should avoid high-dose use due to oxalic acid content.

## Scientific Research

Two human RCTs have examined shepherd's purse for bleeding disorders: one triple-blinded trial (n=90, PMID: 29641247) found hydroalcoholic extract capsules significantly reduced heavy menstrual bleeding vs placebo, while another RCT (n=100, PMID: 28590768) showed sublingual drops reduced early postpartum hemorrhage when combined with oxytocin. No large-scale trials or meta-analyses exist; most evidence comes from preclinical studies.

## Historical & Cultural Context

Shepherd's purse has been used for millennia in European and Middle Eastern folk medicine as a hemostatic remedy for postpartum hemorrhage, menstrual bleeding, and wound care. Traditional applications also included treatment for infertility, [cardiovascular](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) issues, and dermatologic conditions, with formal pharmacology studies dating to the 1960s.

## Synergistic Combinations

Vitex agnus-castus, Iron, Vitamin K, Dong Quai, Raspberry leaf

## Frequently Asked Questions

### How much shepherd's purse should I take for heavy periods?

ESCOP-referenced preparations typically use 10–15 grams of dried herb per day as an infusion, or standardized fluid extracts dosed at 5–8 mL three times daily. Clinical trials supporting menorrhagia reduction have used standardized extract formulations rather than crude tea, so potency can vary significantly between product forms. Always consult a healthcare provider before use, as dosing for gynecological indications should be individualized.

### Is shepherd's purse safe to use while breastfeeding?

There is insufficient clinical data on Capsella bursa-pastoris safety during breastfeeding, and its tyramine content raises theoretical concerns about infant exposure via breast milk. ESCOP guidance recommends avoiding use during lactation as a precaution. Always consult a healthcare provider before use in the postpartum period.

### What is the active compound in shepherd's purse that stops bleeding?

The primary hemostatic compounds in Capsella bursa-pastoris are tyramine, which causes adrenergic receptor-mediated vasoconstriction and uterine smooth muscle contraction, and flavonoids such as diosmin and hesperidin, which stabilize capillary walls and inhibit prostaglandin-driven vascular permeability. Oxalic acid and specific peptides also contribute by promoting platelet aggregation and accelerating clot formation. No single compound acts alone; the hemostatic effect is considered synergistic across these phytochemicals.

### Can shepherd's purse interact with blood thinners like warfarin?

Yes, Capsella bursa-pastoris has pro-coagulant and platelet-aggregating properties that could theoretically reduce the effectiveness of anticoagulants such as warfarin or antiplatelet agents like aspirin and clopidogrel. There are no large pharmacokinetic studies confirming the magnitude of this interaction in humans, but the mechanistic basis is well-founded given its flavonoid and oxalic acid content. Patients on anticoagulation therapy should inform their prescriber and avoid self-medicating with shepherd's purse without medical supervision.

### Does shepherd's purse affect thyroid function?

Capsella bursa-pastoris contains goitrogenic compounds that may competitively inhibit iodine uptake by the thyroid gland, particularly with chronic high-dose use. This is a concern primarily for individuals with pre-existing hypothyroidism or those taking levothyroxine, where even modest reductions in iodine bioavailability could affect thyroid hormone synthesis. Short-term use at typical herbal doses is unlikely to cause clinically significant thyroid disruption in healthy individuals, but those with thyroid conditions should consult an endocrinologist before use.

### What is the difference between shepherd's purse extract and dried herb preparations?

Shepherd's purse extracts concentrate the active compounds and are typically standardized for consistent potency, making dosing more predictable than dried herb preparations. RCTs demonstrating efficacy for menstrual bleeding have primarily used standardized extracts, though traditional preparations have been used for centuries. Extract forms generally provide faster absorption and stronger hemostatic effects compared to whole dried herb, though both forms are available commercially.

### Can shepherd's purse be used to prevent heavy bleeding before menstruation starts?

While shepherd's purse is traditionally used as a preventative for heavy menstrual bleeding, clinical evidence primarily demonstrates effectiveness when taken during menstruation itself. Some practitioners recommend starting supplementation a few days before expected menses based on traditional use, though formal RCTs supporting this preventative approach are limited. Consulting a healthcare provider about timing and individual menstrual patterns is recommended for optimal use.

### Who should avoid shepherd's purse supplementation?

Individuals with estrogen-sensitive conditions (such as certain breast cancers) should avoid shepherd's purse, as it may have mild estrogenic activity based on traditional use patterns. People with bleeding disorders or those undergoing surgery should not use it due to its hemostatic effects, which could interfere with normal clotting. Pregnant women, except under medical supervision near delivery for postpartum hemorrhage prevention, should avoid shepherd's purse due to its uterotonic properties.

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*Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com*
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