| |
Galium aparine Goosegrass (1 Page of 5) The Galium aparine plant species is found in Britain. It is a member of the Rubiaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Goosegrass. Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses Latin Name: Galium aparine Common Name: Goosegrass Family: Rubiaceae Author: L. Known Hazards: The sap of the plant can cause contact dermatitis in sensitive people[222]. Mature Height: 1.2 Mature Width: 3 Habitat: Hedgerows and as a weed of cultivated land[7]. Moist and grassy places on most types of soil[17].
Medicinal Information: Goosegrass has a long history of domestic medicinal use and is also used widely by modern herbalists. A valuable diuretic, it is often taken to treat skin problems such as seborrhoea, eczema and psoriasis, and as a general detoxifying agent in serious illnesses such as cancer[254].
The whole plant, excluding the root, is alterative, antiphlogistic, aperient, astringent, depurative, diaphoretic, diuretic, febrifuge, tonic and vulnerary[4, 7, 9, 21, 165, 218, 222]. It is harvested in May and June as it comes into flower and can be used fresh or dried for later use[4, 238]. It is used both internally and externally in the treatment of a wide range of ailments, including as a poultice for wounds, ulcers and many other skin problems[4, 7, 244], and as a decoction for insomnia and cases where a strong diuretic is beneficial[4]. It has been shown of benefit in the treatment of glandular fever, ME, tonsilitis, hepatitis, cystitis etc[238]. The plant is often used as part of a spring tonic drink with other herbs[4].
A tea made from the plant has traditionally been used internally and externally in the treatment of cancer[4, 218, 222]. One report says that it is better to use a juice of the plant rather than a tea[254]. The effectiveness of this treatment has never been proved or disproved[7].
A number of species in this genus contain asperuloside, a substance that produces coumarin and gives the scent of new-mown hay as the plant dries[238]. Asperuloside can be converted into prostaglandins (hormone-like compounds that stimulate the uterus and affect blood vessels), making the genus of great interest to the pharmaceutical industry[238].
A homeopathic remedy has been made from the plant[7].
For further Galium aparine gardening information click on one of the blue links below 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'. View their bibliography

| |