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Sweet Woodruff (Asperula odorata syn. Galium odoratum)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Rubiaceae
  • Common Names: Sweet Woodruff, Wild Baby’s Breath, Master of the Woods
  • Parts Used: Aerial parts (leaves, stems, flowers)

Description

Asperula odorata (now classified as Galium odoratum) is a low-growing, fragrant herb native to Europe and Asia. It is best known for its pleasant scent, which intensifies when dried due to its coumarin content. Traditionally, sweet woodruff has been used for its calming, circulatory, and digestive properties.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used in European folk medicine as a mild sedative and digestive aid.
  • Infused into wines and beverages, notably in Germany’s traditional Maibowle (May Wine).
  • Applied externally to reduce swelling and promote wound healing.

Constituents

  • Coumarins (responsible for its fragrance)
  • Flavonoids
  • Tannins
  • Iridoids
  • Essential oils

Actions

  • Mild sedative
  • Antispasmodic
  • Diuretic
  • Circulatory tonic
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Astringent

Medicinal Uses

1. Nervous System and Sleep Support:
Sweet woodruff has been used as a mild sedative to relieve nervous tension and promote restful sleep.

2. Circulatory Health:
Traditionally used to improve circulation and relieve varicose veins and swelling.

3. Digestive Aid:
Its bitter properties support digestion and help ease bloating, cramps, and sluggish digestion.

4. Anti-Inflammatory and Pain Relief:
Used in compresses and washes for bruises, swollen joints, and mild wounds.

5. Diuretic and Detoxification Support:
Encourages healthy kidney function and fluid balance.

Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

  • 1-2 tsp of dried aerial parts per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10 minutes and drink up to 2 times daily.

Tincture:

  • 2-5 ml of tincture taken 2-3 times daily.

Poultice:

  • Crushed fresh leaves applied externally for swelling and bruises.

Culinary Use:

  • Small amounts infused into wines or desserts for flavor and mild calming effects.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Coumarin Content: Can have blood-thinning effects; avoid excessive use if on anticoagulant medication.
  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Best avoided in large medicinal doses.
  • Liver Sensitivity: High doses over long periods may affect liver function.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Traditional European Medicine: Cooling and relaxing, used to move stagnant energy and support circulation.

Combinations

  • For Sleep Support: Combine with valerian and chamomile.
  • For Circulatory Health: Combine with hawthorn and horse chestnut.
  • For Digestive Aid: Combine with peppermint and fennel.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Gather leaves and flowers in late spring before peak flowering.
  • Drying: Air dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area.
  • Storage: Store dried material in an airtight container away from moisture and light.

Modern Research

Studies confirm Galium odoratum’s potential in circulatory health and nervous system support, with ongoing research into its anticoagulant properties.

Sweet Woodruff remains a valuable herb in traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for sleep, circulation, and digestive health.