Herbier des Anciens — Detailed Sheet

Galium odoratum

Read before use: the information below describes traditional and informational uses — it does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. If in doubt, during pregnancy, while breastfeeding, during ongoing treatment, or for use in children, seek advice before use.

Enhanced precautions for this plant: Contains coumarin, which in excess can cause headaches and digestive issues; do not exceed short, occasional infusions. Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women due to insufficient data. Avoid combining with anticoagulant treatments due to potential interactions. Always use the well-dried plant in moderate amounts: wilting develops coumarin but also increases its risk in case of excess.

Infusion — Dried aerial parts (leaves and flowering stems)

Evening infusion

Steep a small pinch of dried plant in hot, non-boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes, covered. Drink warm, at the end of the day, occasionally rather than daily. Dosage should be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Aromatic maceration (May wine) — Fresh slightly wilted aerial parts

Traditional May wine

Wilt a few sprigs of sweet woodruff for one day in the air, then let them macerate in light white wine for one to two hours before removing the plant. This short maceration avoids excessive coumarin concentration. Dosage should be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Dried plant sachet — Dried aerial parts

Scented sachet for linens

Dry the plant in the shade, then place it whole or crushed in small fabric sachets to slip among linens or bedding. Renew the contents each season to preserve the fragrance. Dosage should be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Where to find it

Obtaining the plant

It is found in the wild in cool, shaded undergrowth across Europe, as well as cultivated as an ornamental ground-cover plant; it can also be found dried at certain herbalists specializing in traditional aromatic plants.

Harvest season

When to harvest it

The aerial parts are traditionally harvested in spring, before flowering, when the foliage is at its most tender and fragrant.

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