Agropyron repens Couch grass (Gramineae)

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Agropyron repens
Couch grass
(1 Page of 5)

The Agropyron repens plant species is found in Britain. It is a member of the Gramineae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Couch grass. Some home gardeners know the variety as Elymus repens.(L.)Gould.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Agropyron repens
Common Name:  Couch grass
Family:  Gramineae
Author:  (L.)Beauv.

Known Hazards:  None known

Mature Height:  0.6   Mature Width:  1

Habitat:  A common weed of gardens, fields, hedgerows and meadows[17].

Medicinal Information: Couch grass is of considerable value as a herbal medicine, the roots being very useful in the treatment of a wide range of kidney, liver and urinary disorders[4]. They have a gentle remedial effect which is well-tolerated by the body and has no side-effects[238]. This plant is also a favourite medicine of domestic cats and dogs, who will often eat quite large quantities of the leaves[4]. The roots are antiphlogistic, aperient, demulcent, diuretic, emollient, lithontripic and tonic[4, 7]. They are harvested in the spring and can be dried for later use[4]. A tea made from the roots is used in cases of urinary incompetence and as a worm expellent[222]. It is also an effective treatment for urinary tract infections such as cystitis and urethritis[254]. It both protects the urinary tubules against infections and irritants, and increases the volume of urine thereby diluting it[254]. Externally it is applied as a wash to swollen limbs[222].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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