ENGLISH NAME: Ground ivy
LATIN NAME: Glechoma hederacea
LOCAL NAMES:
Czechia: Popenec obecný
Turkey: Yer sarmaşığı / Yertutan
Bulgaria: Земианка / Див кукуряк (Zemianka / Div
kukuryak)
Georgia: მიწის სურო (Mitsis suro)
COUNTRY: Bulgaria, Czechia, Turkey, Georgia
WHERE TO FIND IT:
Region: Central Bohemian Forests (Czechia), Black Sea and Marmara zones
(Turkey), foothills of Stara Planina and Rhodopes (Bulgaria), Imereti and
Adjara (Georgia)
Elevation: 100–1400 meters
Terrain: Moist woodland edges, hedgerows, shaded meadows, gardens, and
streambanks
DESCRIPTION:
A creeping, evergreen perennial with square stems, scalloped kidney-shaped leaves,
and small bluish-purple funnel-shaped flowers that bloom in early spring. The
plant spreads quickly and forms dense ground cover. It has a strong, minty
aroma and belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae).
USABLE PARTS: Aerial parts –
stems, leaves, and flowers
MEDICINAL
PROPERTIES:
Traditionally used as an expectorant for coughs, mild diuretic, and
anti-inflammatory agent. Also known to support digestion and detoxification,
and sometimes used for mild headaches and earaches. It has wound-healing and
astringent qualities in topical use.
UNDESIRED EFFECTS:
Generally safe in moderate amounts. Large doses may cause gastrointestinal
upset. Use caution in individuals with liver conditions or taking hepatotoxic
medications.
COMBINING WITH
OTHER MEDICINES:
Often used with nettle, dandelion, or cleavers for spring detox blends. Can be
combined with thyme or plantain for respiratory support.
PREPARATION:
Used as an infusion or tea from fresh or dried aerial parts. Also used in
tinctures, poultices, or as a bath additive. Historically used in brewing
(alehoof) for clarifying beer.
HARVEST TIME:
Spring to early summer, during or just before flowering.
HARVEST METHOD:
Clip the upper aerial parts on dry days, leaving roots intact for regrowth.
Best harvested before the plant becomes too fibrous.
CONSERVATION
(STORAGE):
Dry quickly in a ventilated, shaded area. Store in airtight containers away
from heat and light. Use within one year for best effectiveness.