Elymus repens
- Origin
- Europe
- Part used
- Root
- Tradition
- Traditional ethnobotany
Couch grass, a creeping plant often cursed by gardeners, was nonetheless held in high esteem by herbalists of old. Its creeping root, patiently harvested, went into the so-called ‘depurative’ teas of spring, meant to help the body as winter drew to a close.
Traditional uses
A spring depurative tea
Couch grass root was traditionally used as a decoction to accompany so-called spring cures, reputed to promote urinary elimination.
Support for the urinary tract
Old-time herbalists recommended couch grass rhizome to promote the normal functioning of the urinary tract, particularly for minor, passing discomfort.
A gentle general-wellness tea
Due to its richness in mucilage, the root was sometimes used as a gentle decoction, considered soothing for the body as a whole.
Traditional use in a 'terrain' cure
Some herbal records mention couch grass among the plants used in 'terrain cures' associated with skin wellness, alongside other depuratives.
Before you use it
Avoid in cases of urinary retention of severe cardiac or renal origin without medical advice. Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding without the advice of a healthcare professional. Seek advice from a pharmacist or doctor if taking diuretics or other medication. Stick to traditional doses and do not extend the cure without a professional's advice.
The detailed notebook
- Prepared as a paste or decoction
- Traditional duration of use
- Known contraindications
- Related species and their uses
Where to find it
Partner herbalists — available with the detailed notebook.
Sources
Wikipedia