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Creeping perennial wildflower, also known as Gill-go-over-the-ground, Haymaids, Creeping Charlie, Tun-hoof, Hedgemaids, Lessy-run-up-the-hedge and Robin-run-in-the-hedge. Flourishes in all parts of Britain, particularly on hedgebanks, wasteland, ditches, pastures and roadsides. Dark green kidney-shaped leaves and pretty, small, purple flowers. Evergreen. Flowers April to June.
Ground Ivy was one of the main plants used by the Anglo-Saxons to clarify their beer before hops were introduced � hence another of its names as Ale-hoof, as well as Tun-hoof.
Gill comes from the French guiller (to ferment beer) but as gill also meant girl, its Hedgemaids name developed. Glechoma derives from glechon � the Greek for mint or thyme. Hederacea � Latin for ivy-like, referring to the leaf shape of the plant or perhaps its creeping habit. Member of the Mint family.
Has been used for treating kidney problems and indigestion, coughs and headaches. Gill tea was also made from the plant. A snuff could be made from the dried leaves and sniffed for relief from headache. Galen recommended it for inflamed eyes. Livestock can be poisoned by Ground Ivy although most animals will avoid eating it, but it can be toxic to horses if eaten in large quantities in hay.
On Walpurgis night (May Day eve) at midnight, you should make a wreath from Ground Ivy picked earlier and wear it around your head � this will enable you to perceive witches. Ground Ivy is generally regarded as a safeguard against sorcery.
Likes moist, shady places but will also grow well in sun.
*This sheet is provided for information only and is in no way a prescription for use. Please seek the advice of a qualified herbalist before using*