Description :
Bugleweed is a perennial that grows up to 3 feet in height. The square-stemmed plant grows in runners along the ground and has leaves that grow on opposite sides of the stem. Leaves closest to the root have a wavy edge while the ones farther away from the root are oval shaped and toothy. Small blueish-purple flowers appear from May through July. The plant has a minty smell and a bitter taste. It grows best in damp soil with lots of shade. Tinctures and teas of Bugelweed were used as a part of Old Europe’s folk medicine then, later, by the early American herbalists as a heart tonic, to help stop bleeding, and to help normalize menstrual cycles.
History and Folklore:
The botanical name, Lycopus, is derived from the Greek words Lycos–meaning wolf, and Pous–meaning foot. This is due to the resemblance of the leaves to a wolf’s foot.
Cultivation and Harvest:
Harvest the whole upper part of the plant from large, mature plants, but leave a bit of stem for future growth. Leave smaller plants in the area so that they can reseed and continue to grow. Harvesting should be done during the afternoons of summer months while the plant is in full bloom. This allows for the best vibrancy, color, and potency.
Precautions:
People suspecting a thyroid or heart condition should not ingest bugleweed. Do not take if pregnant or nursing.
Traditional Herbal Actions:
Astringent, Cardiotonic, Emmenagogue, Antihemorrhagics, Bitter, Hemostatic, Respiratory Antispasmodic
Other Names:
Virginia Water Horehound, American Water Hoarhound, Sweet Bugleweed, Water Bugle, Carpenter’s herb, Green Archangel, Purple Archangel, Paul’s Betony, Woodbetony, Wolf Foot, and Egyptian’s herb
Tincture Ingredients: Bugleweed (Lycopus virginicus)
*These statements have not been verified by the FDA and is only referenced here as a fun fact and/or for historical commentary, is not to be used as medical advice in any way. Consult your doctor before ingesting any herbal product.
None of these items or statements are approved by FDA. Consult your physician before taking any supplement. Do not take herbs or tinctures during pregnancy without consulting your healthcare provider. This product is not intended to diagnose or treat any disease. All information here is for entertainment and educational purposes only.
Aiden –
Jean Harmon (verified owner) –
Part of the Thyroid-Calm tincture bundle.