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Galium odoratum Sweet woodruff (1 Page of 5) The Galium odoratum plant species is found in Britain. It is a member of the Rubiaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Sweet woodruff. Some home gardeners know the variety as Asperula odorata. Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses Latin Name: Galium odoratum Common Name: Sweet woodruff Family: Rubiaceae Author: (L.)Scop. Known Hazards: None known Mature Height: 0.15 Mature Width: 0.45 Habitat: Woodland and shady areas[4, 14] on damp calcareous and base rich soils[17].
Medicinal Information: Sweet woodruff was widely used in herbal medicine during the Middle Ages, gaining a reputation as an external application to wounds and cuts and also taken internally in the treatment of digestive and liver problems[4]. In current day herbalism it is valued mainly for its tonic, diuretic and antiinflammatory affect[254].
The leaves are antispasmodic, cardiac, diaphoretic, diuretic, sedative[9, 13, 21, 200]. An infusion is used in the treatment of insomnia and nervous tension, varicose veins, biliary obstruction, hepatitis and jaundice[9, 238]. The plant is harvested just before or as it comes into flower and can be dried for later use[9]. One report says that it should be used with caution[21] whilst another says that it is entirely safe[9]. The dried plant contains coumarins and these act to prevent the clotting of blood - in excessive doses it can cause internal bleeding[254]. Do not use this remedy if you are taking conventional medicine for circulatory problems or if you are pregnant[254].
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 made from the plant is used in the treatment of inflammation of the uterus[238].
For further Galium odoratum 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

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