NATURAMEDICIN HERBARIUM
Couch grass
A familiar grass has its place in the herbarium too.
Gardeners often see it as a persistent opponent. Herbal practitioners view the same plant differently: they are interested in the long, pale rhizome through which couch grass spreads underground. This inconspicuous part connects the story of an ordinary grass with European herbal tradition.
THE PLANT'S ROLE
What makes couch grass interesting?
Couch grass helps the body eliminate water.
Its role in herbal practice is therefore associated with natural elimination. Formulas use the rhizome, the underground part in which the plant stores reserves.
What is couch grass, and where does it grow?
Couch grass (Elymus repens) is found in fields, gardens, fallow land and along roadsides. It can be recognised by its narrow leaves and spike-like flower head. It usually flowers from June to August and forms long, jointed rhizomes below the surface.
A rhizome is an underground stem
The long, pale strands we pull out of a garden bed are not just roots. A rhizome is a stem hidden underground. Couch grass can regrow from its nodes, which explains its persistence. This is the part of the plant used in herbal preparations.
Reserves hidden in the rhizome
Couch grass has long been known in European herbal practice. Among other things, its rhizome contains storage carbohydrates, including fructans. Its composition reminds us that even an ordinary grass can have an interesting underground side. Traditional use alone does not confirm the efficacy of every modern extract.
When professional advice matters
If your doctor has restricted your fluid intake because of heart or kidney disease, discuss whether couch grass preparations are suitable for you with them first. Seek medical advice if you have a fever, pain when urinating or blood in your urine.
NATURAMEDICIN
Couch grass in INETHAN
INETHAN contains an extract of couch grass rhizome. Discover the purpose of the complete formula, its ingredients and recommended use.
A food supplement is not a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Follow the recommendations and warnings for the specific product.