Clubmoss (Lycopodium clavatum)

Clubmoss (Lycopodium clavatum) is a member of the Lycopodiaceae family, native to North America, Europe, and Asia. Traditionally, its stems, spores, and rhizomes have been used for decoctions, infusions, and powders.

This herb is particularly valued for its tonic, antispasmodic, and astringent actions, and has a long history of use in european herbal medicine, traditional chinese medicine, and ayurvedic medicine.

Clubmoss (Lycopodium clavatum) dried pieces of the herb arranged on a wooden table for reference — Clubmoss (Lycopodium clavatum) dried pieces of the herb arranged together on a wooden table for reference, used in teas and remedies.

Quick Facts / Key Information

Common Name	Clubmoss
Scientific Name	Lycopodium clavatum
Plant Family	Lycopodiaceae
Genus	Lycopodium
Species	clavatum
Native Range	North America, Europe, Asia
Plant Parts Used	Stems, Spores, Rhizomes
Primary Medicinal Actions	Tonic, Antispasmodic, Astringent
Primary Traditional Systems	European Herbal Medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ayurvedic Medicine
Historical Preparation Methods	Decoction, Infusion, Powder

Botanical Identity

Scientific Name: Lycopodium clavatum
Common Name: Clubmoss
Synonyms / Alternative Names: Whipsnake, Lycopodium, Club Moss
Plant Family: Lycopodiaceae
Genus: Lycopodium

Botanical Description

Growth Habit: Perennial herbaceous plant.
Height: It typically grows to a height of 30 to 100 centimeters.

Traditional Uses / Historical Use

Traditional Systems

European Herbal Medicine
Traditional Chinese Medicine

Historical Preparation Methods

Decoction
Infusion
Powder
Tincture

Medicinal Actions

Tonic: As described in traditional systems, a moderate tonic, for broad-use formulations.
Antispasmodic: Traditionally described as a gentle antispasmodic, for cramp-focused discussions.
Astringent: In herbal texts, considered a mild astringent, in drying-focused uses.
Stimulant: Commonly referenced as a calming stimulant, in energy-related contexts.

Active Compounds

Alkaloid: A diverse group of secondary metabolites present in numerous plants.
Flavonoid: A group of naturally occurring compounds commonly present in many flowering plants.
Terpenoid: A chemical class commonly associated with volatile plant constituents.
Tannin: Plant-derived compounds known for their ability to bind proteins.

Modern Research Overview

This section is reserved for future summaries of scientific research related to this plant. As additional verified sources are reviewed, relevant study information will be added here.

Safety & Contraindications

General Precautions: General precautionary guidance for this herb is not clearly established in available sources.
Contraindications: The use of this herb has been associated with reported contraindications in some situations.
Allergies: There is insufficient evidence to determine whether this herb commonly causes allergic reactions.
Drug Interactions: Available information regarding interactions with pharmaceutical drugs is limited.
Toxicity: Toxic effects associated with this herb have not been well documented.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Available information regarding use during pregnancy or breastfeeding is limited.

Preparation & Usage Methods

Infusion: Dried or fresh plant parts are infused in hot water and consumed as a beverage.
Decoction: Decoctions are made by heating plant material in water for an extended time.
Poultice: Poultices involve external application of prepared plant matter.
Powder: Plant parts are dried and mechanically reduced to a powdered form.
Tincture: Plant material is macerated in alcohol to create a concentrated liquid extract.

Growing, Harvesting & Storage

Growing / Cultivation

Soil: Prefers loamy soil with well-drained conditions. Typically grows best in organically rich soils.
Sunlight: Thrives in partial shade. Tolerates full sun to partial shade.
Watering: Prefers moist soils. Tolerates periodic dry conditions.