From the herbalist's guide: goutweed. What does it help with?

Although many gardeners fight ground elder as an ineradicable weed, it is worth looking at it with a sympathetic eye. In ancient times, it was considered a valuable and noble plant – and today it may come back into favor as an element of the home medicine cabinet. What are its properties?

Goutweed (Aegopodium podagraria), also known as ground elder, goutweed or chicken foot, has been a faithful companion of people for centuries – especially in difficult times. Some sources say that Neanderthals reached for this herb to relieve pain. In Poland, its history dates back to the Middle Ages: during periods of famine, the plant saved from malnutrition. Benedictine monks used ground elder externally – as a compress for wounds and swellings. It was also a remedy for royal pains, i.e. gout that develops as a result of frequent feasting and overeating by representatives of wealthier social classes. Although today we often treat it as a troublesome weed, it is worth getting to know its properties anew.

What does it help with?

The name itself indicates its main use: "podagra" is an old term for gout, a disease characterized by severe joint pain. The herb has anti-inflammatory and diuretic effects - it helps remove excess uric acid, bringing relief from pain and swelling. In folk medicine, it was also used for kidney and bladder diseases, hemorrhoids and in the treatment of kidney stones.

Natural support

Although the most common reference is to the effects of ground elder on joints, it is worth knowing that this plant also has a mild antispasmodic and calming effect. It helps with nervous tension, digestive problems and flatulence. An infusion of the dried herb can support the body during convalescence – especially after infections and food poisoning. In folk phytotherapy, it is considered a herb that cleanses the body of toxins – which may be important for people with chronic fatigue, skin diseases or swelling.

What does the research say?

Although ground elder has not yet had as many clinical trials as St. John's wort or nettle, preliminary analyses confirm its anti-rheumatic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects. In laboratory studies, leaf extracts show the potential to neutralize free radicals and support liver function. In addition, it has been proven that the polyphenols contained in ground elder inhibit the growth of some bacteria and fungi. Recent studies suggest that ground elder has cytotoxic effects, which may be helpful in the fight against cancer cells.

How to use?

Young leaves can be used to make spring salads or to add to cleansing cocktails. An infusion is made by pouring a glass of boiling water over 1 tablespoon of dried herb – cover and steep for 10–15 minutes. Drink 1–2 times a day, preferably for 2–3 weeks. Ground elder is also suitable for preparing compresses for swollen joints – just crush fresh leaves and apply to the skin or make a warm compress. Dietary supplements with ground elder are also available in pharmacies and herbal stores – most often in the form of capsules or tablets, which are a convenient alternative to infusions, especially in therapy supporting joints and urinary tract. However, it is always worth consulting their use with a doctor or pharmacist.

Carefully

Ground elder is considered a safe plant, but like any herbal treatment, it requires common sense. It is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, or for people who are allergic to plants from the celery family (Apiaceae). When taking diuretics or anti-inflammatory drugs, it is worth consulting a phytotherapist or doctor.

AM