Woodruff is used against all disorders linked to nervousness, ranging from insomnia to palpitations, from headaches to digestive disorders of nervous origin. It is also used for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties in cases of conjunctivitis or blepharitis or for its diuretic properties in cases of urinary infection. Latin name: Galium odoratum (L.) Scop. Part of the plant: aerial parts

This article was updated on 08/02/2023
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In case of Headache, Migraine

Recommended modes of use

In infusion

Pour the equivalent of 1 tablespoon of dry plant per cup of hot water, then let it infuse for 10 minutes. Drink 2 to 3 cups per day.

Plants often associated

Matricaria Chamomile, Ginger, Marjoram, Melissa, Pepper mint, Meadowsweet, Rosemary, Lavender, Linden (Bracts)

In case of Sleep problems, Insomnia

Use at the end of the day and/or in the evening before bed.

Recommended modes of use

In infusion

Pour the equivalent of 1 tablespoon of dry plant per cup of hot water, then let it infuse for 10 minutes. Drink 2 to 3 cups per day.

Plants often associated

Matricaria Chamomile, Marjoram, Melissa, Fragrant Verbena, Lavender, Hawthorn, Passionflower, Valerian, Sweet Mint, Linden (Bracts)

In case of Nervousness, Palpitations

Recommended modes of use

In infusion

Pour the equivalent of 1 tablespoon of dry plant per cup of hot water, then let it infuse for 10 minutes. Drink 2 to 3 cups per day.

Plants often associated

Matricaria Chamomile, Orange Blossom, Marjoram, Melissa, Fragrant Verbena, Melilot, Lavender, Hop, Hawthorn, Serpolet, Linden (Bracts)

In case of Conjunctivitis

Recommended modes of use

In compress

Pour the equivalent of 1 tablespoon of dry plant per cup of hot water, then let it infuse for 10 minutes. Filter then leave to cool. Soak a compress or cloth with the preparation then apply to the affected areas. 

In lotion

Pour the equivalent of 1 tablespoon of dry plant per cup of hot water, then let it infuse for 10 minutes. Filter then leave to cool. Filter the mixture well (using a coffee filter) to remove all impurities. Use the eye drop preparation.

Plants often associated

Roman chamomile, Plantain, Melilot, Cornflower, Eyebright, Celandine

In case of Dyspepsia, Bloating, Difficult digestion, Digestive disorders, Digestive spasms

Recommended modes of use

In infusion

Pour the equivalent of 1 tablespoon of dry plant per cup of hot water, then let it infuse for 10 minutes. Drink 2 to 3 cups per day.

Plants often associated

Yarrow, Angelic, Matricaria Chamomile, Fennel, Juniper (Juniper), Marjoram, St. John's wort, Green Anise, Star anise

In case of Cystitis, Urinary tract infection

Recommended modes of use

In infusion

Pour the equivalent of 1 tablespoon of dry plant per cup of hot water, then let it infuse for 10 minutes. Drink 2 to 3 cups per day.

Plants often associated

Cassis, Lemongrass, Juniper (Juniper), Thyme, Marshmallow, Nettle, Dandelion, Quackgrass, Heather, Mauve, Bearberry, Savory

Properties and active components

Properties

  • antispasmodic (coumarins)
  • sedative (coumarins)
  • anti-inflammatory (coumarins, flavonoids)
  • astringent
  • diuretic
  • hepatobiliary stimulant
  • antiseptic

Active components

  • Iridoids: asperuloside
  • Coumarins
  • Tannins
  • Anthraquinones
  • Flavonoids

Precautions for use

  • Consumption of this plant is contraindicated in pregnant and breastfeeding women as well as in cases of anti-coagulant treatment.
  • Compliance with the recommended doses is recommended because an overdose can cause side effects such as bleeding, headaches and altered perceptions (dizziness, drowsiness).
  • Do not consume woodruff if it has turned black, a sign of the presence of dicoumarol which can lead to bleeding.

Botanical

Sweet woodruff belongs to the family of Rubiaceae. It's a plant perennial with quadrangular stems measuring up to 25 cm. The latter have whorls formed of 6 to 8 oval, slender leaves giving them the appearance of a star. Its small white flowers form a tube at the base then flare into 4 petals without visible calyx. They hatch from May to June. Round fruits covered with hooked hairs follow them. 

Native to Europe, the Woodruff is found in damp undergrowth and shady places. This plant is ideally grown in regions with a temperate climate with no dry season. The main producing countries of Sweet Woodruff are located in Europe, Western Asia and Japan, Northern Africa.

In the East of France as well as in Germany, to celebrate May 1st, we prepare the "may wine"from Sweet Woodruff flowers infused in slightly sweet white wine renowned for its tonic and digestive properties.

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