Medicinal Plants : Lycopus europaeus

Name

Bugleweed

Biological Name

Lycopus europaeus
Labiatae

Other Names

Sweet Bugle, Water Bugle, Gypsywort, Bugleweed

Parts Used

Aerial parts

Active Compounds

Phenolic acid derivatives; caffeic, rosmarinic, chlorogenic and ellagic acids.

Pimaric acid methyl ester.

Description

Eastern USA- L. virginicus. Europe-L. europaeus.

A perennial herb growing up to 12 inches tall. Its creeping runners produce rosettes of leaves; the whole structure forms a carpet-like mat. The lower leaves are spatula shaped and often have wavy edges, while the upper leaves are toothed and elliptical or oval. Small blue to purple flowers appear from May to July.

Remedies For

Diuretic, peripheral vasoconstrictor, astringent, nervine, anti-tussive.

Bugleweed is a specific for over-active thyroid glands, especially where the symptoms include tightness of breathing, palpitation and shaking. It may safely be used where palpitations occur that are of nervous origin. Bugleweed will aid the weak heart where there is associated build-up of water in the body. As a sedative cough reliever it will ease irritating coughs, especially when they are of nervous origin.

Dosage

Infusion: Pour a cup of boiling water onto 1 teaspoonful of the dried herb and let infuse for 10-15 minutes. This should be drunk three times a day.

Tincture: Take 1-2 ml of the tincture three times a day.

Combinations : Bugleweed may be used with nervines such as Skullcap or Valerian.

Safety

No information available.