Ground Ivy (Glechoma Hederacea) or ’Creeping Charlie’, like many of the plants we post, would probably be considered little more than an invasive weed by those who don’t know about its benefits, and as such, usually ends up being ripped out of the ground as soon as it appears. Despite being called an ”Ivy” it’s actualy in the mint family and likes shady or moist conditions. It grows all over the UK and Ireland and can be gathered and used fresh when it flowers in spring or can be dried for later use. However, given that it grows all year and, in my humble opinion, loses something in the drying process, I personally think it’s best to use it fresh in an infusion, tincture or glycerite.

- Given to children for catarrh and chronic conditions like sinusitis and other chest, throat and lung problems.

- Useful for cleansing stomach, intestines and colon, but has a special affinity for the kidneys and bladder. Poor kidney function is at the root of many breathing problems.

- Has been recommended for the treatment of dyspepsia, gastritis, diarrhoea, irritable bowel syndrome, piles, cystitis and abdominal colic.

- In the past, ground ivy used to be known as “painter’s herb” due to its ability to treat painter’s colic or lead poisoning from paint.

- In bacterial studies completed in 2011, ground ivy proved to be the species most toxic to bacteria of the entire mint family.

- The fresh juice dropped in the ears is said to cure tinnitus and a compress of the herb can be used to heal bruises and black eyes.

- Korean research in 2014 discovered it had enormous potential for treating many types of bone disorder, including osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis.

- Relieves inflammation of the mucus membranes.

- Can greatly reduce the severe irritation that accompanies seasonal allergies or can halt them in their tracks altogether.

- An infusion of ground ivy is Used in Japan to protect the liver and to treat gout.

- Ground Ivy was used from Anglo-Saxons right through to the Tudors as one of the main herbs for brewing and clarifying ale, hence its other colloquial names such as “alehoof” and “tunhoof”.