04/07/2026
Plant Fact Tuesday!
With it being Spring let’s talk about Creeping Charlie( Grounf Ivy)
Many know it as a w**d! A nuisance due its rapid capability of spreading! This herb used to treat respiratory congestion, sinus issues, ear infections, and kidney/bladder problems due to its anti-inflammatory, astringent, and antiviral properties. It is high in Vitamin C, iron, and antioxidants, and can be used in teas or tinctures.
Benefits & how to use it!
* Respiratory Support: Commonly used for coughs, bronchitis, and congestion due to its expectorant properties.
* Ear, Nose, and Throat: Used to relieve sinus headaches and ear infections (tinnitus).
* Urinary Tract Health: Acts as a diuretic and antiseptic, aiding with cystitis and kidney stones.
* Anti-inflammatory: Used as a tea, tonic, or poultice for joint pain, bruises, and inflamed skin.
* Nutritional Value: Rich in iron, copper, manganese, and Vitamin C, it can be consumed in small amounts in salads
!!!Warnings!!!
* Not a Replacement for Medicine: While used in traditional herbal medicine, it is not a substitute for professional medical treatment.
* Consumption Limits: Generally considered safe in small, food-use quantities, but safety of large, medicinal doses is not well-established.
* Safety Warning: It may cause side effects, such as sting or itch when applied to skin, and is generally not recommended in large amounts.
*
How to Use:
* Tea (Infusion): Steep fresh or dried leaves in hot water for congestion.
* Poultice: Apply crushed leaves to minor cuts or bruises.
* Culinary: Add young, fresh leaves to salads or pestos.
What parts to harvest?
You can harvest the entire above-ground portion of creeping charlie (Glechoma hederacea), including the leaves, flowers, and tender young stems. The best time to harvest is spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing and flowering, as this provides the most potent flavor and aromatic properties.
Harvesting and Usage Tips:
* Parts to Use: Young leaves and flowers are best for salads, while the entire stem can be used for teas or cooking.
* Best Time: Harvest mid-morning after the dew has evaporated.
* Safety Check: Only harvest from areas that have not been treated with pesticides or herbicides, and are not pet areas.
* Flavor: It has a strong, peppery, and slightly minty taste.
* Uses: It can be used fresh in salads, cooked like spinach, or dried for tea.
!Avoid brown or damaged leaves, and make sure to wash the plant thoroughly under cold water to remove dirt.
Bonus:
* Creeping Charlie Tea: Wash leaves and steep 5-10 leaves (or a handful for a quart jar) in hot water for 5–10 minutes.
* Ground Ivy Pesto: Blend fresh ground ivy leaves with garlic, olive oil, nuts (walnuts or pine nuts), and parmesan cheese.
* Spring Salad: Add young, fresh leaves to mixed greens for a slightly aromatic, minty tang.
* Ground Ivy Potato Salad: Sauté or finely mince 1/4 cup of ground ivy and mix into a French-style potato salad with olive oil and Dijon mustard.
* Wild Herb Compound Butter: Blend finely chopped leaves with softened butter, garlic, and sea salt.
