ENGLISH NAME: Bugle Weed
LATIN NAME: Lycopus
europaeus
LOCAL NAMES:
Czechia: Karbinec
evropský
Turkey: Avrupa
kurtpençesi
Bulgaria: Европейска катушка
Georgia: ევროპული ლიკოპუსი (Evropuli
likopusi)
COUNTRY: Turkey,
Bulgaria, Czechia, Georgia
WHERE TO FIND IT:
Region: Widespread in
wet lowland areas across Europe
Elevation: 100–800 meters
Terrain: Moist vegetation
around rivers, streams, marshes, and lake margins
DESCRIPTION:
Bugle Weed is a herbaceous perennial growing 30 to 90 cm tall. It has square
stems, toothed lance-shaped leaves arranged oppositely, and produces small
whitish to pale pink flowers arranged in dense whorls along the upper stem. It
thrives in damp or wet soils and is often found near water bodies.
USABLE PARTS: Stem (aerial
parts)
MEDICINAL
PROPERTIES:
Traditionally used for its potential ability to regulate thyroid function (especially
mild hyperthyroidism), support cardiovascular health, and reduce internal
bleeding. Often associated with mild sedative, astringent, and anti-hemorrhagic
effects.
UNDESIRED EFFECTS:
May suppress thyroid activity; not recommended for individuals with
hypothyroidism or during pregnancy. Always consult with a professional before
internal use.
COMBINING WITH
OTHER MEDICINES:
Occasionally combined with lemon balm or motherwort in thyroid-calming teas or
tinctures.
PREPARATION:
Aerial parts are dried and used in teas, infusions, or tinctures. Must be used
with care, ideally under guidance.
HARVEST TIME:
Mid to late summer, when the plant is in full bloom and before seed set.
HARVEST METHOD:
Cut stems with leaves and flowers on dry days. Avoid harvesting from polluted
or stagnant water sites.
CONSERVATION
(STORAGE):
Dry aerial parts in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Store in airtight
containers, away from light and humidity. Use within 1 year.