Couch grass

Elymus repens

Traditionally attributed effects: diuretic, soothing, astringent; for kidney and bladder complaints (kidney stones, interstitial cystitis), helps regulate blood sugar.

Safety notes

Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.

Preparation

Decoction: 3 tsp per half litre, 15 min, 120 ml every half hour as needed; tea: 1–2 tsp per cup, steep 3–4 hours; tincture 1–2 dropperfuls 1–6 times a day.

Use in traditions

Dogs and cats eat this persistent weed when they are ill, which explains the name dog grass. The rhizome was used as a sweetish, soothing diuretic for cystitis and ground into flour in times of famine.

Applications

Use by tradition

How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.

Western herbalism

Attributed effects

Diuretic, soothing, astringent; for kidney and bladder complaints (kidney stones, interstitial cystitis), helps regulate blood sugar.

Preparation and amount

Decoction: 3 tsp per half litre, 15 min, 120 ml every half hour as needed; tea: 1–2 tsp per cup, steep 3–4 hours; tincture 1–2 dropperfuls 1–6 times a day.

Ways to prepare herbs: Tea (infusion)Decoction Tincture

Sources

en.wikipedia.org

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