Woodruff (Galium odoratum)
Folk Names: Herb Walter, ladies in the hay, muge-de-boys, sweet grass, waldmeister, woodderowffe, wood-rovam, wood rowan, wuderove.
Woodruff Galium odoratum is a perennial plant from the Madder family. Native to Europe and the Middle East, it grows 4-8 inches tall.
Woodruff’s scent increases when wilting, once dried it can be used as potpourri. It used to be sewn into cotton bags and hung in closets as a moth deterrent. Mixed with white wine it is thought to strengthen the heart. (Only the above-ground portion of the plant is used) It contains coumarin glucosides that acts as an anticoagulants and can be used to counteract excessive blood clotting.
Uses:
Compress:
- Grind herbs with a mortar and pestle, place in a warm, damp cloth, fold and apply to forehead. (Do Not let pulp touch the skin)
Healing Powder:
For Insomnia
- Mix 1/2 tsp. of powdered Woodruff with honey or fruit puree 30 minutes before bedtime.
Tea:
- Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 tsp. of dried Woodruff.
- Steep 5 min; strain.
- Drink 2-3 cups a day. (preferably unsweetened)
Tonic:
To strengthen the heart
- Steep 2 tsp. of dried Woodruff in 1 cup of cold water for 8 hrs, strain.
- Drink 1-2 cups every day.
Potpourri & Sachets
- Make a Woodruff pillow to encourage sleep or sweeten a closet with an herb sack.
- Display dried herbs in a bowl to add a fresh scent to a room.
Wine Punch:
- With 1 qt. of dry, sweet white wine add no more than 3/4 tsp. of fresh, slightly wilted Woodruff.
- Let the punch sit for a few hours.
- Strain and serve chilled. (Woodruff is more aromatic when slightly wilted)
Folklore & History:
- Dating back to the 14th century, Woodruff has been used to sweeten the air.
- Medieval soldiers carried it in their helmets, they believed it promoted success in battle.
- It is carried to attract money and prosperity, bring victory to athletes and warriors.
- When placed in a sachet of leather it is said to guard against harm.
- In the middle ages, it was woven into wreaths and hung in churches.
Tip: Useful as a MILD sedative and antispasmodic.
Warning: May cause internal bleeding if taken in large doses. Do not use if pregnant or taking medication for circulatory problems.
References:
- The Complete Guide To Natural Healing
Note: Consult with a Physician or certified herbologist if you are seeking medical remedies. The information is not intended as medical advice. PagansWorld.org is not liable for the misuse of the herb listed above.
Thanks for stopping by! Well wishes to you all and have a great day!
Lisa
Tags: Herbs, Medicinal Plants, Woodruff
