Common Name: |
Ground Ivy |
Other Names: |
Alehoof |
Botanical Name: |
Glechoma hederacea syn. Nepeta glechoma, N. hederacea |
Genus: |
Glechoma |
Family: |
Lamiaceae |
Native Location: |
Europe and N America. |
Cultivation: |
Moist, well-drained soil in sun or shade. Invasive |
Propagation: |
By seed sown in spring (species only); by division in autumn or spring; by separation of rooted stolons at any time. |
Harvest: |
Flowering plants are dried for infusions and liquid extracts. |
Height: |
15cm (6in) |
Width: |
2m (6ft) |
Variations: |
Variegata (Nepeta, variegated ground ivy) Has white variegated leaves. |
Hardiness: |
Z4-9 |
Parts Used: |
Whole plant |
Properties: |
A bitter, aromatic, astringent herb; it has a tonic effect on the bronchial, digestive, and urinary system, and is diuretic and expectorant. |
Medicinal Uses: |
Internally for excess mucus, sinusitis, ear infections, bronchitis, gastritis, and cystitis. Externally for inflammations of throat and mouth, and hemorrhoids. |
Culinary Uses: |
Fresh or dried leaves are used to make herb tea. Young leaves can be added to soups. |
Bibliography: |
The Encyclopedia of Herbs by Deni Bown Copyright © 1995, 2005. Dorling Kindersley Limited. pp 224-225. |