Content
- Clearly recognize woodruff in the forest and collect it safely
- The growth form and flower of the woodruff
- Smell and taste of the woodruff
- Healing effects and venom potential of Waldmeister
- Tips & Tricks
Clearly recognize woodruff in the forest and collect it safely
Many people are reluctant to collect herbs and medicinal plants in the wild, because they are afraid of confusion. Due to its characteristic appearance, the woodruff is usually not a great danger.
The growth form and flower of the woodruff
The plant also known as may herb Galium odoratum not only has a very special aroma, but also a visually quite attractive appearance. The plant, which grows a maximum of about 30 centimeters high, often forms extensive carpets in sparse forests, as it propagates through the self-sowing of the seeds and over their root system. This makes this herb a sought-after ground cover for especially shady places in the garden. On the thin and four-edged stalks of the woodruff, the lance-shaped, narrow leaves are arranged in whorls circular on different floors. During the flowering period from about mid-April to mid-May, you recognize the woodruff even easier by its many white flowers that are shaped like small crosses.
Smell and taste of the woodruff
The typical smell and taste of the woodruff has been or is traditionally used for, for example, the following products:
Although it is also noticeable on the fresh stems, the smell becomes more intense after a short drying period of one to two days. So if you are not sure about a plant stock in the forest, you can wilt some stalks first and then collect larger quantities at the site if needed.
Healing effects and venom potential of Waldmeister
Waldmeister was mentioned as a medicinal plant since the Middle Ages, which is mainly due to the coumarin contained in its stems and leaves. Thus, the enjoyment of certain amounts of woodruff should not only fight headaches, but also be digestive and cramp. However, the use in child confectionery and sodas in Germany has been banned for several decades, as a too regular consumption in larger quantities should lead to permanent liver damage. In the short term, overdose may also cause headache, malaise and vomiting.
Tips & Tricks
To avoid overdosing the coumarin, which breaks down during drying, you should only sprinkle the woodruff for the production of Maibowle and not soak.
WK