Sweet woodruff

Sweet woodruff, Galium odoratum, delights me when it starts flowering in spring. With masses of starry white flowers on this gentle groundcover, it is hardy and easy care. It likes a bit of shade and damp. It has a sweet smell, like both its common and botanical names.

This is another plant I love that has fallen from favour. It was used traditionally to scent linen and as a strewing herb as well as to flavour a German wine.

Medicinal uses include internally as a tea for the digestive system (bloating, pain and indigestion), as a tea or as a herbal pillow for insomnia, anxiety and stress, and as a tea or poultice for poor circulation. Externally it was used for wounds, cuts burns and irritations and sprains and bruises.

Caution is required when using this herb. This is not one to use when you're pregnant or breastfeeding and it may interact with some medications and some medical conditions. If you would like to flavour a drink or food, it is likely safe.

Sweet woodruff, Galium odoratum