European Bugleweed (Lycopus europaeus)

European Bugleweed (Lycopus europaeus) is a member of the Lamiaceae family, native to Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa. Traditionally, its leaves, roots, and stems have been used for infusions, decoctions, and poultices.

This herb is particularly valued for its anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and sedative actions, and has a long history of use in european herbal medicine, traditional chinese medicine, and mediterranean herbal traditions.

European Bugleweed (Lycopus europaeus) dried pieces of the herb arranged on a wooden table for reference — European Bugleweed (Lycopus europaeus) dried pieces of the herb arranged together on a wooden table for reference, used in teas and remedies.

Quick Facts / Key Information

Common Name	European Bugleweed
Scientific Name	Lycopus europaeus
Plant Family	Lamiaceae
Genus	Lycopus
Species	europaeus
Native Range	Europe, Western Asia, North Africa
Plant Parts Used	Leaves, Roots, Stems
Primary Medicinal Actions	Anti-Inflammatory, Antispasmodic, Sedative
Primary Traditional Systems	European Herbal Medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Mediterranean Herbal Traditions
Historical Preparation Methods	Infusion, Decoction, Poultice

Botanical Identity

Scientific Name: Lycopus europaeus
Common Name: European Bugleweed
Synonyms / Alternative Names: European Bugleweed, Blueweed, Garden Germander
Plant Family: Lamiaceae
Genus: Lycopus

Botanical Description

Growth Habit: Perennial herbaceous plant.
Height: It typically grows to a height of 30 to 80 centimeters.
Leaves: Opposite, ovate leaves with smooth margins, upper surface dark green, lower surface lighter green, featuring prominent stomatal bands along the midrib.
Flowers: Flowers are actinomorphic, typically blue to violet in color, arranged in dense spike-like clusters, with four to five ovate petals and a prominent five-lobed calyx.
Stems: Erect, branched, herbaceous stems with opposite decussate leaves, pubescent surfaces, and nodes bearing adventitious roots.

Traditional Uses / Historical Use

Traditional Systems

European Herbal Medicine

Historical Preparation Methods

Infusion
Decoction
Poultice
Tincture

Medicinal Actions

Anti-inflammatory: In herbal texts, considered a moderate anti-inflammatory, in tissue-soothing contexts.
Antispasmodic: Historically regarded as a mild antispasmodic, in spasm-related situations.
Sedative: Commonly referenced as a cooling sedative, in nervous system–related contexts.
Tonic: Traditionally described as a warming tonic, in general wellness contexts.

Active Compounds

Flavonoid: Naturally occurring polyphenols that contribute to pigmentation and structural chemistry.
Phenolic Acid: Organic acids commonly occurring as part of plant secondary metabolism.
Glycoside: Naturally occurring metabolites distributed across many plant species.
Coumarin: Naturally occurring lactone compounds distributed across various plant tissues.

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: The use of this herb may warrant general caution in certain situations.
Contraindications: The use of this herb has been associated with reported contraindications in some situations.
Allergies: Sensitivity or allergy-related effects have not been clearly established.
Drug Interactions: Interactions between this herb and prescription medications have been noted in traditional use and literature.
Toxicity: The use of this herb has been linked to reported toxic effects.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: There is insufficient evidence to determine the safety of this herb during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Preparation & Usage Methods

Infusion: Water is poured over plant material and allowed to steep before straining.
Decoction: Plant parts are gently boiled in water to release soluble constituents.
Poultice: Poultices involve external application of prepared plant matter.
Tincture: A preparation involving soaking plant parts in alcohol for extended extraction.
Extract: A preparation involving the separation of plant constituents without alcohol.

Growing, Harvesting & Storage

Growing / Cultivation

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