Medicinal Plants : Agropyron repens

Name

Couchgrass

Biological Name

Agropyron repens
Graminaceae

Other Names

Couchgrass, Twitchgrass, Quickgrass, Doggrass

Parts Used

The rhizome

Active Compounds

Carbohydrates; triticin, a fructosan polysaccharide, inositol, mannitol & mucilage

Volatile oil, mainly of agropyrene

Miscellaneous; vanillin glycoside, vitamins A and some of the B complex, fixed oil, minerals including silica and iron.

Remedies For

Diuretic, demulcent, anti-microbial.

Couchgrass may be used in urinary infections such as cystitis, urethritis and prostatitis. Its demulcent properties soothe irritation and inflammation. It is of value in the treatment of enlarged prostate glands. It may also be used in kidney stones and gravel. As a tonic diuretic, Couchgrass has been used with other herbs in the treatment of rheumatism.

For urinary tract infections, couchgrass may be used with Buchu, Bearberry or Yarrow. It can be combined with Hydrangea for prostrate problems.

Description

Grows in many parts of the world, and all too frequently in gardens.

Dosage

Decoction: put 2 teaspoonfuls of the cut rhizome in a cup of water, bring to boiling and let simmer for 10 minutes. This should be drunk three times a day.

Tincture: take 2-4 ml of the tincture three times a day.

Safety

Some herbs are known to react with your medication. Please consult your physician before starting on any herb.