Ground Ivy

Glechoma hederacea

Lamiaceae (mint family)

Ground Ivy is a perennial herb known for its creeping growth habit and round, scalloped leaves. It has been used traditionally in herbal medicine for its anti-inflammatory, diuretic, and astringent properties. The plant is also appreciated for its aromatic qualities and attractive purple flowers.

Other names:

Creeping Charlie, Alehoof, Gill-over-the-Ground, Field Balm

Botanical Description

Spiritual Associations

Superpower

The ability to provide respiratory relief and promote cleansing of the lymphatic system.

Uses

European Herbal Medicine: Historically, Ground Ivy was used in medieval Europe as a treatment for lung conditions, coughs, and respiratory congestion. Its expectorant properties made it a go-to remedy for clearing phlegm and supporting bronchial health. It was also used in brewing as an early replacement for hops, and as a treatment for digestive issues.

Poultice for Wounds: In traditional folk medicine, Ground Ivy was applied as a poultice for wounds, bruises, and insect bites, aiding in the healing process by reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair.

Current Uses:

Respiratory Health: Ground Ivy is currently used for treating sinusitis, congestion, and seasonal allergies. Its ability to clear mucus and soothe the respiratory tract makes it effective for addressing chronic coughs, bronchitis, and asthma.
Digestive Support: As a bitter herb, Ground Ivy stimulates digestion and can help relieve indigestion, bloating, and mild digestive discomfort.
Anti-inflammatory: Modern herbalists also use Ground Ivy for its anti-inflammatory effects, particularly in joint and muscle pain, and it is sometimes used as a mild diuretic.

Cautions

Toxicity:

Mild Toxicity in High Doses: While Ground Ivy is generally safe in small, traditional doses, it may cause gastrointestinal discomfort (nausea, vomiting) if taken in large quantities over extended periods.

Contraindications:

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Ground Ivy is not recommended for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as there is insufficient research on its safety during these periods. The herb may stimulate the uterus, posing a risk during pregnancy.
Kidney Disease: Individuals with kidney disease should avoid Ground Ivy, as there are concerns it could exacerbate symptoms or interfere with kidney function due to its mild diuretic effects.

Interactions:

Diuretics: Ground Ivy has mild diuretic properties, so it should be used cautiously with other diuretics or medications affecting kidney function, as it may increase the risk of dehydration or electrolyte imbalance.

Known Chemical Constituents

Sesquiterpenes:
These compounds contribute to Ground Ivy’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping reduce inflammation and supporting respiratory and immune health.

Flavonoids:
Known for their powerful antioxidant effects, flavonoids like quercetin and kaempferol help protect cells from oxidative stress, support circulatory health, and reduce inflammation.

Volatile Oil:
Ground Ivy contains a volatile oil with aromatic and antimicrobial properties, contributing to its respiratory-clearing effects and providing relief from congestion.

Bitter Principle (Glechomine):
Glechomine is the primary bitter compound found in Ground Ivy. It stimulates digestion, improving bile flow and overall digestive health.

Caffeic Acids:
These are antioxidant compounds that help reduce inflammation and protect against oxidative damage in the body, supporting both respiratory and immune health.

Tannins:
Tannins provide astringent properties, helping to tone tissues and reduce inflammation. They are also effective in treating digestive issues and promoting wound healing.

Botanical Description

Growth Habit:
Glechoma hederacea is a perennial creeping herb that spreads along the ground via stolons (runners), often forming dense mats. It grows up to 15-50 cm (6-20 inches) in height and can spread widely across the ground, especially in shady or moist environments.

Leaves:
The leaves are kidney-shaped to rounded, with slightly serrated edges and a hairy texture. They are arranged oppositely along the square stem, typical of plants in the mint family (Lamiaceae). The leaves have a pleasant aromatic scent when crushed, which is characteristic of many mint relatives.

Stems:
The stems are thin, square-shaped, and creeping, allowing the plant to spread easily. The stems often root at the nodes, enabling Glechoma hederacea to cover large areas quickly.

Flowers:
Ground Ivy produces small, bluish-purple flowers that are two-lipped and appear in clusters of three or more at the leaf axils. The flowers bloom in early spring to mid-summer and are a favorite among pollinators, particularly bees.

Fruits:
After flowering, the plant produces small, dry nutlets that contain the seeds.

Habitat:
Glechoma hederacea thrives in shaded, moist environments such as woodlands, lawns, gardens, and meadows. It prefers rich, well-drained soils but is highly adaptable and can grow in a wide range of conditions, including areas with poor soil.

Fun Facts

Ground Ivy was historically used in beer brewing before hops became the standard ingredient. It was known as “Alehoof” because it was used to clarify and flavor ale during the fermentation process in medieval Europe.

Parts Used

Aerial

Harvest

Best Time to Harvest:
Ground Ivy should ideally be harvested in the spring or early summer, just before or during the plant’s flowering stage. This is when the plant’s medicinal properties are at their peak, and the leaves and stems contain the highest concentration of volatile oils and active compounds. The leaves can continue to be harvested throughout the growing season if they remain healthy and vibrant.

Leaves and Aerial Parts:
The leaves, stems, and flowers are the primary parts used. They can be hand-harvested using scissors or simply pinched off with your fingers. Take care to leave some of the plant intact to allow it to continue growing and regenerating, as Ground Ivy spreads rapidly and will continue to thrive throughout the season.

Environmental Considerations:
Ground Ivy should be harvested from clean, uncontaminated areas, free from pesticide or chemical exposure. Avoid harvesting near roadsides or heavily polluted areas, as the plant may absorb toxins from the environment.

Post-Harvest Processing:

Drying: Once harvested, the aerial parts should be laid out in a well-ventilated, shaded area to dry. Drying is essential to preserve the herb’s medicinal properties and to avoid mold development. Drying should continue until the plant becomes crispy to the touch.
Storage: After the plant is fully dried, store it in airtight containers away from light, moisture, and heat. Proper storage ensures that the medicinal properties are preserved for use in infusions, tinctures, and topical applications.

Preparations

Infusion/Tea:
The dried leaves are often used to make an infusion or tea to address respiratory issues, such as cough, congestion, and sinusitis. Steeping the dried herb in hot water for 10-15 minutes releases its beneficial compounds.

Tincture:
Ground Ivy is commonly prepared as a tincture, where the fresh or dried plant is macerated in alcohol to extract its active compounds. This form is often used for digestive support, lymphatic health, and respiratory issues.

Poultice:
The fresh leaves can be crushed and applied directly as a poultice to treat wounds, bruises, or insect bites. This preparation helps reduce inflammation and speeds up healing.

Syrup:
A syrup can be made by combining Ground Ivy tea with honey. This is an effective way to soothe a persistent cough or respiratory irritation.

Herbal Oil:
Ground Ivy can be infused into oil and used topically for muscle pain, joint inflammation, and wound healing. It is commonly added to balms or salves for external use.

Sacred Rituals

Ground Ivy was often used in rituals for protection and healing. It was believed to help clear negative energy and purify spaces, and it was often burned or hung in homes to prevent illness and misfortune.

Affirmations

“I am grounded, clear, and resilient, healing from within as I embrace the flow of life.”

Spiritual Associations

Ground Ivy is associated with protection, healing, and resilience. It symbolizes the ability to clear and purify both physically and spiritually, making it a powerful ally in rituals of cleansing and renewal.