Couch Grass Root, rhizome (Elymus repens) – Dried Herb, Organic

Elymus repens, also called Couch Grass, Quick Grass or Dog Grass is a rapidly spreading grass of the family Poaceae. Couch Grass is native to Europe and has been introduced to other north temperate areas for forage or erosion control. In cultivated lands, it is often considered a weed because of its persistence.

The plant has been used in various home remedies in Europe, and the rhizomes (underground stems) have been eaten during times of famine. The percentage of Couch Grass flour rose during those periods and in early spring when the old food reserves were finishing, and there were still no new crops. With more than 10,000 species, the Poaceae Grass family is one of the largest families of flowering plants. Its members are monocotyledons and feature leaves with parallel veins; the flowers are usually wind-pollinated.

Many grasses are cultivated as ornamental plants and for lawns, and several are staple cereal crops. In medieval Northern Europe it was a substitute of the resin-based incense. Also brushes and brooms were produced from the rhizomes.

In Poland, the Couch Grass historically found application in preparation of soups (with milk and porridge), beer, coffee substitute, pumpernickel and bread. The flour obtained from the dried grounded rhizomes–which contain up to 20% starch, 5-6% proteins, 30-40% carbohydrates as well as potassium, iron and some vitamin C–makes bread sweeter and spongier. The whitish to yellowish rhizomes are collected especially in early spring and autumn. Couch Grass is rich in mucilage, volatile oils and polysaccharides, which are considered the active ingredients of this herb.

Couch Grass has been used for thousands of years now to treat inflamed bladder, water retention, uterine infection and urination that is painful to pass. It is also a natural remedy used for kidney stone conditions as well as kidney infection. Pedanius Dioscorides and Pliny the Elder, believed Couch Grass to “clean the blood”. It was applied against rheumatism, gout, acne, or diverse problems with metabolism.

Properties:

The taste and energetics of Cough Grass are sweet, bland, cold and moist. Couch Grass has an affinity towards the kidneys, bladder, liver, lymphatic system, blood, lungs and skin. Combine Cough Grass with Buchu Leaf, Hydrangea Root and Corn Silk to support the kidneys and bladder. For Lung support mix Cough Grass with Mullein Leaf, Licorice Root and Wild Cherry Bark.

How to use:

2 teaspoon of cut Rhizome to one cup of boiling water. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, strain and drink up to three cups a day.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease or illness. Please consult your healthcare provider prior to the use of this product if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications or have a medical condition. Individual results may vary.