ground ivy
- Origin
- Europe
- Part used
- Leaves, Flowers, Stem
- Tradition
- Traditional ethnobotany
A small creeping plant of woodland edges and shaded gardens, ground ivy long blended, in European folk herbalist notebooks, with the everyday plants gathered without effort at the foot of hedgerows. Its slightly bitter, aromatic flavor, close to wild mint, earned it a modest but steady place in our grandmothers' herbal teas. It has been mentioned since the Middle Ages in Europe's folk traditions, particularly to accompany seasonal colds.
Traditional uses
Before you use it
Do not confuse it with common ivy (Hedera helix), a climbing plant with toxic berries and no botanical relation despite the similar name. Avoid prolonged use or high doses without the advice of a health professional, as a precaution. Seek the advice of a doctor or midwife before any use in pregnant or breastfeeding women, as well as young children. If undergoing medical treatment, consult a health professional before any regular use.
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