For the first actual HerbsNWeeds podcast, I am talking about ground ivy. Other names used for it is creeping charlie, field balm, alehoof, catsfoot, and several others. Ground ivy is part of the mint family and is quite common.
Identifying ground Ivy:
Runs across the ground almost like a vine with square stems. Usually does not get tall, maybe 6 inch or 15ish cm in height. The runners can get longer. The leaves are the easiest identifying feature with its round or kidney, fan shape and rounded tooth edges that are attached to the stem. Small funnel shaped flowers grow out of the leaf axils usually in clusters of 2 or 3. The flowers are normally purple or bluish violet and blossoms in the Spring (April/May).
Historical Use:
Ground ivy was use in folk medicine generally in tonic form to treat respiratory problems and for wound care. It was also used in the brewing process for flavor and preserving ales before the discovery of hops in the 15th century.
Modern Use:
Ground ivy is use today for its medicinal properties in herbal medicine, as a salad ingredient, or just for the aroma and the beautiful flowers in herbal gardens when it is not just classified as a weed in a yard.
If you would like to grow ground ivy in your garden, here is an affiliate link for seeds on Amazon.
Thank you for listening and if you have questions or comments, email luke@herbsnweeds.com
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